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The Heart of a Duke #10
To Woo a Widow
They see a brokenhearted widow.
She's far from shattered.
Lady Philippa Winston is never marrying again. After her late husband's cruelty that she kept so well hidden, she has no desire to search for love.
Years ago, Miles Brookfield, the Marquess of Guilford, made a frivolous vow he never thought would come to fruition--he promised to marry his mother's goddaughter if he was unwed by the age of thirty. Now, to his dismay, he's faced with honoring that pledge. But when he encounters the beautiful and intriguing Lady Philippa, Miles knows his true path in life. It's up to him to break down every belief Philippa carries about gentlemen, proving that not only is love real, but that he is the man deserving of her sheltered heart.
Will Philippa let down her guard and allow Miles to woo a widow in desperate need of his love?
*****To Woo a Widow is an approximately 40,000 word short novel.
She's far from shattered.
Lady Philippa Winston is never marrying again. After her late husband's cruelty that she kept so well hidden, she has no desire to search for love.
Years ago, Miles Brookfield, the Marquess of Guilford, made a frivolous vow he never thought would come to fruition--he promised to marry his mother's goddaughter if he was unwed by the age of thirty. Now, to his dismay, he's faced with honoring that pledge. But when he encounters the beautiful and intriguing Lady Philippa, Miles knows his true path in life. It's up to him to break down every belief Philippa carries about gentlemen, proving that not only is love real, but that he is the man deserving of her sheltered heart.
Will Philippa let down her guard and allow Miles to woo a widow in desperate need of his love?
*****To Woo a Widow is an approximately 40,000 word short novel.
162 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 21, 2016
652 people are currently reading
539 people want to read
About the author
Christi Caldwell
137 books2,561 followersUSA TODAY Bestselling author CHRISTI CALDWELL blames Judith McNaught's "Whitney, My Love!" for luring her into the world of historical romance. While sitting in her graduate school apartment at the University of Connecticut, Christi decided to set aside her notes and pick up her laptop to try her hand at romance. She believes the most perfect heroes and heroines have imperfections, and she rather enjoys torturing them before crafting them a well deserved happily ever after!
Christi makes her home in Charlotte, North Carolina where she spends her time writing her own enchanting historical romances, and baking surprisingly good cakes (almost 2 years in lockdown will do that) with her courageous son and twin daughters, each who with their daily antics provides limitless source material.
Christi makes her home in Charlotte, North Carolina where she spends her time writing her own enchanting historical romances, and baking surprisingly good cakes (almost 2 years in lockdown will do that) with her courageous son and twin daughters, each who with their daily antics provides limitless source material.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews
April 3, 2019
I picked this up after reading an interesting RWA discussion thread on Twitter about the expectations of some readers for an HEA equaling marriage and babies. Referring to this book Christi said,
"I CAN'T EVEN TELL you how many times readers write me upset when my HEA doesn't have babies at The End. I had a heroine who was treated as a broodmare by her 1st husband. She can't have more kids. will die if she does. Her hero, a marquess says: 'I love you more than my title.."
Well that prompted me to read this, and I loved it, and I fell in love with the Marquess ❤️
"I CAN'T EVEN TELL you how many times readers write me upset when my HEA doesn't have babies at The End. I had a heroine who was treated as a broodmare by her 1st husband. She can't have more kids. will die if she does. Her hero, a marquess says: 'I love you more than my title.."
Well that prompted me to read this, and I loved it, and I fell in love with the Marquess ❤️
October 6, 2018
3.5/5 Stars.
This was like a reverse of the earlier Christi Caldwell I read - instead of a widower with kids it's a widow with two adorable little girls.
A quick, swift and sweet read. It's quite tame in its sensuality. I think if I had read this any other time, and not just after the earlier book I might have loved it so much more.
This was like a reverse of the earlier Christi Caldwell I read - instead of a widower with kids it's a widow with two adorable little girls.
A quick, swift and sweet read. It's quite tame in its sensuality. I think if I had read this any other time, and not just after the earlier book I might have loved it so much more.
June 21, 2016
To Woo a Widow is #10 in the amazing "The Heart of a Duke" series by Christie Caldwell. It can be read as a stand alone. Another WOW romantic story! Once again, Ms. Caldwell has brought her characters to "life" through the pages of her story.
My heart went out to Lady Philippa Winston, a young widow, with two small children. One, her oldest, has a disability, she is deaf in one ear, but can read lips, but you have to be facing her. Ms. Caldwell wrote about something close to my heart, with such honesty, emtions and the difficulties those with a disability face. Phillippa, has faced many disappointments, betrayal, cruelty, and she faced many miscarriages or her babies was born dead, she has had so many children, so close together, she was advised against ever having anymore children, or risk her death. She is such a powerful heroine, she grabbed your heart and refused to let go.
Miles Brookfield, the Marquess of Guilford, promised his mother, if he was not married by age thirty, he would betrothed himself to his mother's Goddaughter and his childhood friend. All well until he accidentally, literally, runs into Philippa and her daughters in Hyde Park.
Well written with engaging characters and an interesting storyline. Readers will find themselves enthralled and engaged in the emotional turmoil of the characters. Another page Turner from Ms. Caldwell.
Can two strong-willed, disheartened souls, find their HEA? Or will they let their adversity to finding love and passion, cause them to lose the love of a lifetime. Can a Marquess, who needs a heir really love a Lady who could never give him any children, or learn to love, two children not his own, as his?
Philippa and Miles are the perfect match to me, if only Philippa could learn to believe in Fairy tales again, and let love into her life.
Filled with family, love, devotion,passion, misunderstandings, and an unwavering desire for a HEA.
"Too Woo a Widow", is a true Romantic Regency tale. An epic Romance!
Once again, Ms. Caldwell will have her readers in awe, as she navigates this thing called love, with emotion, a fierce devotion, and courage, to make a perfect Romance. The sign of a true Historical Romance author!
Each time I read one of Ms. Caldwell's stories, I am amazed and in awe of her depth of understanding into human emotion and passion.
A must read! Highly recommended to fans of adversity, historical Romance, unique storylines, and true Fairy Tales. Can Fairy Tales really come true! You must pick up and read "Too Woo a Widow", to find these answers and so much more. Another well done Romance from Christi Caldwell.
Reviewed for an honest review. However, all opinions are my own.
Rating: 4.5
Heat rating: Mild
Reviewed by: AprilR
My heart went out to Lady Philippa Winston, a young widow, with two small children. One, her oldest, has a disability, she is deaf in one ear, but can read lips, but you have to be facing her. Ms. Caldwell wrote about something close to my heart, with such honesty, emtions and the difficulties those with a disability face. Phillippa, has faced many disappointments, betrayal, cruelty, and she faced many miscarriages or her babies was born dead, she has had so many children, so close together, she was advised against ever having anymore children, or risk her death. She is such a powerful heroine, she grabbed your heart and refused to let go.
Miles Brookfield, the Marquess of Guilford, promised his mother, if he was not married by age thirty, he would betrothed himself to his mother's Goddaughter and his childhood friend. All well until he accidentally, literally, runs into Philippa and her daughters in Hyde Park.
Well written with engaging characters and an interesting storyline. Readers will find themselves enthralled and engaged in the emotional turmoil of the characters. Another page Turner from Ms. Caldwell.
Can two strong-willed, disheartened souls, find their HEA? Or will they let their adversity to finding love and passion, cause them to lose the love of a lifetime. Can a Marquess, who needs a heir really love a Lady who could never give him any children, or learn to love, two children not his own, as his?
Philippa and Miles are the perfect match to me, if only Philippa could learn to believe in Fairy tales again, and let love into her life.
Filled with family, love, devotion,passion, misunderstandings, and an unwavering desire for a HEA.
"Too Woo a Widow", is a true Romantic Regency tale. An epic Romance!
Once again, Ms. Caldwell will have her readers in awe, as she navigates this thing called love, with emotion, a fierce devotion, and courage, to make a perfect Romance. The sign of a true Historical Romance author!
Each time I read one of Ms. Caldwell's stories, I am amazed and in awe of her depth of understanding into human emotion and passion.
A must read! Highly recommended to fans of adversity, historical Romance, unique storylines, and true Fairy Tales. Can Fairy Tales really come true! You must pick up and read "Too Woo a Widow", to find these answers and so much more. Another well done Romance from Christi Caldwell.
Reviewed for an honest review. However, all opinions are my own.
Rating: 4.5
Heat rating: Mild
Reviewed by: AprilR
June 25, 2017
After reading To Trust a Rogue and finding it OK I decided to try this short story. I was surprised to read the exact phrasing in this story and that it was repetitive, too, for it only being 138 pages. I mean, we were told 7 times that Philippa was married 6 years, like that was necessary, and that Miles had ginger hair 9 times but I couldn’t tell you what color hair Chloe or Gabriel or Jane or either of the mothers had.
Philippa did go from a weak, proper woman to having some backbone, thanks to Miles, Jane and Mrs. Wollstonecraft’s book.
Of course, there was insta-love but that can’t be helped in 138 pages. (It’s insta-love in 300 page books that I can’t stand.)
Anyway, this was the story about a woman who went from a brutal father to a cold unfeeling husband who saw her as nothing but a baby-maker. They’d been married 6 years and she’d been pregnant 8 times and only had 2 daughters. Philippa had nearly died a couple of times but Calvin didn't care, all he wanted was a son.
There was one explicit sex scene, that didn’t include intercourse.
As to the narration. Tim Campbell always does a good job with voices and emotions. He even did a great job with Faith, who was 5 years old, and Violet who was only a year old.
Philippa did go from a weak, proper woman to having some backbone, thanks to Miles, Jane and Mrs. Wollstonecraft’s book.
Of course, there was insta-love but that can’t be helped in 138 pages. (It’s insta-love in 300 page books that I can’t stand.)
Anyway, this was the story about a woman who went from a brutal father to a cold unfeeling husband who saw her as nothing but a baby-maker. They’d been married 6 years and she’d been pregnant 8 times and only had 2 daughters. Philippa had nearly died a couple of times but Calvin didn't care, all he wanted was a son.
There was one explicit sex scene, that didn’t include intercourse.
As to the narration. Tim Campbell always does a good job with voices and emotions. He even did a great job with Faith, who was 5 years old, and Violet who was only a year old.
July 29, 2020
3.5 almost 4 stars
Wish it was longer to learn more about Philippa and Calvin's relationship, to see Miles and Philippa have more time together. And I really wanted Philippa to have a talk with Gabriel about her mariage.
It was a really good book though.
I rarely give 5 stars, so 3.5 to me - is not a bad book at all. Just was a little too short for the story details I wanted 😊
Wish it was longer to learn more about Philippa and Calvin's relationship, to see Miles and Philippa have more time together. And I really wanted Philippa to have a talk with Gabriel about her mariage.
It was a really good book though.
I rarely give 5 stars, so 3.5 to me - is not a bad book at all. Just was a little too short for the story details I wanted 😊
March 18, 2023
10th in Series.
h Phillipa Gage (Edgerton) Countess of Winston 25, widowed a year with two daughters Faith and Violet. H Miles Brookfield, Marquess of Guilford 29 bestfriend of Jasper Duke of Bainbridge.
h Phillipa Gage (Edgerton) Countess of Winston 25, widowed a year with two daughters Faith and Violet. H Miles Brookfield, Marquess of Guilford 29 bestfriend of Jasper Duke of Bainbridge.
July 12, 2016
Freedom. Her daughters. The two things Lady Philippa Winston values the most. Unlike other widows of the ton Philippa does not want nor does she need a husband; not that any man would want a woman unable to further bear children and her daughters. One of whom, by tons standards is defective. Now all she has to do is convince her family to leave off matchmaking and accept her decision. Not an easy task as they think she is still missing her miserable letch of a husband (a fact they never knew). Until…
Miles Brookfield, the Marquess of Guilford, is approaching the age where he must honor the stupid vow he made to marry his Mother’s goddaughter. Knowing this girl since they were young, he knows they will rub along nicely which doesn’t do anything to ease the annoyance he feels. A man of honor – he will go through with it. Until….
Until Philippa is finely convinced to step outside the walls of her brother’s home by taking her girls for a visit to Hyde Park. A visit that starts the melting of her defenses by showing her there are good men in the world.
Until Miles almost trots over a young girl in the middle of the riding path during his usual early morning ride. A ride that will have him questioning his decision to do as his Mother expects. A ride that opens his eyes to the possibility that there someone else out there for him. His only stumbling block…convincing the lovely widow they belong together.
A beautifully written tale of a woman dealing with the hand that life has dealt her. A woman who realizes she wants to break free of the persona she has always portrayed. A woman whose belief in fairy tales was shattered and the man renewing her belief in them.
I admire Philippa’s strength and determination to make a better life for her daughters than the one they’ve known with the man they called Father. I could feel Philippa’s pain with each memory of the life she had (and some of those memories made me want to shot her deceased husband just to make sure he was dead!) and the war within her as she fought between what Miles offered and what she “knew” would be best for him. And Miles, his patience and treatment of Philippa’s girls made me fall in love with him. And the epilogue! The epilogue was a five hankie read all in itself.
Every new tale that Christi Caldwell writes reminds me why I fell in love with her writing.
Miles Brookfield, the Marquess of Guilford, is approaching the age where he must honor the stupid vow he made to marry his Mother’s goddaughter. Knowing this girl since they were young, he knows they will rub along nicely which doesn’t do anything to ease the annoyance he feels. A man of honor – he will go through with it. Until….
Until Philippa is finely convinced to step outside the walls of her brother’s home by taking her girls for a visit to Hyde Park. A visit that starts the melting of her defenses by showing her there are good men in the world.
Until Miles almost trots over a young girl in the middle of the riding path during his usual early morning ride. A ride that will have him questioning his decision to do as his Mother expects. A ride that opens his eyes to the possibility that there someone else out there for him. His only stumbling block…convincing the lovely widow they belong together.
A beautifully written tale of a woman dealing with the hand that life has dealt her. A woman who realizes she wants to break free of the persona she has always portrayed. A woman whose belief in fairy tales was shattered and the man renewing her belief in them.
I admire Philippa’s strength and determination to make a better life for her daughters than the one they’ve known with the man they called Father. I could feel Philippa’s pain with each memory of the life she had (and some of those memories made me want to shot her deceased husband just to make sure he was dead!) and the war within her as she fought between what Miles offered and what she “knew” would be best for him. And Miles, his patience and treatment of Philippa’s girls made me fall in love with him. And the epilogue! The epilogue was a five hankie read all in itself.
Every new tale that Christi Caldwell writes reminds me why I fell in love with her writing.
February 9, 2019
To Woo A Widow is book 10 in The Heart of a Duke series by Christi Caldwell. So far I have loved every one of these books, but this one I felt fell a bit short of the mark. The hero and heroine fell in love a bit too quickly for me. It felt rushed. I enjoyed the hero's interaction with the lady’s children. There were some lovely tender hearted scenes. I’m going to finish the series, so I am moving on to the next book.
June 21, 2016
Christi Caldwell does it again. She brings two characters who would never find each other together and lets the magic happen.
Can Phillipa, Lady Winston ever find love? Growing up she didn't have a loving family environment. Her father was abusive and Phillipa was the obedient daughter doing everything she was told - including marrying the man her brother selected for her. In her marriage, she was no more than a brood-mare, good for nothing but producing an heir. Unfortunately out of 8 pregnancies she gave birth to only 2 girls - a total failure.
Miles, the Marquess of Guilford is nearing the age when he promised his mother he would marry. IF he hadn't found a bride b the time he turned 30 he would marry his mother's god-daughter and he was okay with that - that's the way things are done in the ton.
Then one day, Phillip and Miles fell into a fairy tale. While walking in the park with her daughters, Faith the partially deaf 4 year old stopped to pick flowers and didn't hear Miles on horseback heading right for her. He stopped in time but didn't see anyone with Faith. When she started talking to him it was love at first sight. The little girl stole his heart, and then he met her mother and he was a goner.
Over the course of a few days, Miles is drawn back to Phillipa and her daughters again and again but she has made it clear that she will not marry again and hinted at the fact that she couldn't have children. How could she make a Marquess happy if she could never give him an heir. Despite interfering parents, outside gossips, potential scandal and reluctance on Phillipa's part, Miles is able to make sure their fairy tale has the very happy ending it deserves.
This couple deserves all the happiness they could make. The ready made family of Miles and his 3 girls is truly the stuff dreams are made of. This was a thoroughly enjoyable read and the ending brought tears of happiness to my eyes. You don't need to have read the other 9 books in the series but I dare you to not go back and pick them up after reading this story.
Can Phillipa, Lady Winston ever find love? Growing up she didn't have a loving family environment. Her father was abusive and Phillipa was the obedient daughter doing everything she was told - including marrying the man her brother selected for her. In her marriage, she was no more than a brood-mare, good for nothing but producing an heir. Unfortunately out of 8 pregnancies she gave birth to only 2 girls - a total failure.
Miles, the Marquess of Guilford is nearing the age when he promised his mother he would marry. IF he hadn't found a bride b the time he turned 30 he would marry his mother's god-daughter and he was okay with that - that's the way things are done in the ton.
Then one day, Phillip and Miles fell into a fairy tale. While walking in the park with her daughters, Faith the partially deaf 4 year old stopped to pick flowers and didn't hear Miles on horseback heading right for her. He stopped in time but didn't see anyone with Faith. When she started talking to him it was love at first sight. The little girl stole his heart, and then he met her mother and he was a goner.
Over the course of a few days, Miles is drawn back to Phillipa and her daughters again and again but she has made it clear that she will not marry again and hinted at the fact that she couldn't have children. How could she make a Marquess happy if she could never give him an heir. Despite interfering parents, outside gossips, potential scandal and reluctance on Phillipa's part, Miles is able to make sure their fairy tale has the very happy ending it deserves.
This couple deserves all the happiness they could make. The ready made family of Miles and his 3 girls is truly the stuff dreams are made of. This was a thoroughly enjoyable read and the ending brought tears of happiness to my eyes. You don't need to have read the other 9 books in the series but I dare you to not go back and pick them up after reading this story.
June 28, 2016
I was gifted a copy for an honest review. Another winner by Ms. Caldwell. To Woo a Widow is book #10 in her Heart of a Duke series. One of the many reasons, I love and adore Christi Caldwell's writing is because she is probably the only writer book or television who can make me fall in love with a guy I 'normally wouldn't.' The Rogue. Or BAD boy. In my own real life, I prefer the good guy. In to Woo a Widow we get Miles Brookfield, the Marquess of Guilford. A decent. Honorable. Caring. Good Guy. Who throughout this book, Christi had me sighing, wishing for a Miles of my own. Many heart melting moments between Miles and the heroine, Philippa Winston's, oldest 5 year old partially deaf daughter Faith. These were some of my favorite scenes from the book. After her cold. Distant, Cruel husband dies Philippa Winston vows never to marry again. As she kept his abuse a secret her matchmaking mother and older brother don't understand why Philippa is so against another marriage...Until a 'prince' of a stranger rescues her daughter. Then later her in the park.
Years ago, Miles Brookfield, the Marquess of Guilford made a vow to his mother that he never thought would come to pass. If he wasn't married by thirty, he would marry his childhood friend. His mother's God daughter. Now, to his dismay, the time is approaching for him to honor that pledge. But when he encounters the beautiful, intriguing, widow, Lady Philippa and her adorable daughter's, who he's equally smitten by. Miles knows it's Philippa who he's destined to marry. But first, Miles must get Philippa to trust that there are good guy's out there, and that she and her girl's are enough for him. He doesn't require the requisite heir and spare. Like Philippa's late husband.
I've said it before, and I'll say it again...If you haven't yet had the pleasure of a Christi Caldwell novel, your missing out. To Woo a Widow and Miles Brookfield will ALWAYS hold a special place in my heart.
Years ago, Miles Brookfield, the Marquess of Guilford made a vow to his mother that he never thought would come to pass. If he wasn't married by thirty, he would marry his childhood friend. His mother's God daughter. Now, to his dismay, the time is approaching for him to honor that pledge. But when he encounters the beautiful, intriguing, widow, Lady Philippa and her adorable daughter's, who he's equally smitten by. Miles knows it's Philippa who he's destined to marry. But first, Miles must get Philippa to trust that there are good guy's out there, and that she and her girl's are enough for him. He doesn't require the requisite heir and spare. Like Philippa's late husband.
I've said it before, and I'll say it again...If you haven't yet had the pleasure of a Christi Caldwell novel, your missing out. To Woo a Widow and Miles Brookfield will ALWAYS hold a special place in my heart.
September 2, 2019
I liked the feminist undertones, the heroine's emotional journey and the hero who was good with her children.
What I didn't like were bits of fatphopia. The author goes out of her way to stress that the heroine is not plump.
She is in fact skinny and the hero is tall and muscular. And her horrible late husband was. As was the girl the hero was supposed to marry. She was an old maid, plump and wore glasses. She isn't an evil character. Still the stereotype is not a pleasant one.
Add to that completely unrealistic details. A marquess is not besieged by ladies simply because he is not a rake? Really? Cause in the fictional England there are so many marquesses that women can be picky?
There are not one but two mothers who ostensibly care for their children but in reality don't give a shite as long as they are married. Especially the hero's mother. The way she speaks about the heroine not being able to give her late husband a son through 8 pregnancies makes her sound like a total bitch. There is no explanation as to why she's like that, she is not redeemed at all. Just another nasty stereotype.
The language is ridiculously flowery. All the delicate body parts, midnight tresses, thick lengths of desire and that sort of thing. I couldn't stop rolling my eyes through the sex scene.
The idea was good, but the execution not so much :(
What I didn't like were bits of fatphopia. The author goes out of her way to stress that the heroine is not plump.
She is in fact skinny and the hero is tall and muscular. And her horrible late husband was. As was the girl the hero was supposed to marry. She was an old maid, plump and wore glasses. She isn't an evil character. Still the stereotype is not a pleasant one.
Add to that completely unrealistic details. A marquess is not besieged by ladies simply because he is not a rake? Really? Cause in the fictional England there are so many marquesses that women can be picky?
There are not one but two mothers who ostensibly care for their children but in reality don't give a shite as long as they are married. Especially the hero's mother. The way she speaks about the heroine not being able to give her late husband a son through 8 pregnancies makes her sound like a total bitch. There is no explanation as to why she's like that, she is not redeemed at all. Just another nasty stereotype.
The language is ridiculously flowery. All the delicate body parts, midnight tresses, thick lengths of desire and that sort of thing. I couldn't stop rolling my eyes through the sex scene.
The idea was good, but the execution not so much :(
June 22, 2016
Review to follow ASAP
January 21, 2018
Is wooing enough
Heartwarming and heartbreaking, beautiful, enrapturing, hopeful, elegant, and equisitely written. Those are just some of the words that describe this story. Christi Caldwell has done it over and over again. Another cant put down read for me. Almost all of her books of broken heros and heroines are relatable and awe inspiring. This one is no different. Her talent with the written word is riviting and refreshing.
Between the pages of To Woo a Widow, you will find the heroine, Phillipa, who is left a widow and a mother of two little girls. After a dibilitating marriage, she decides love, fairy tales and happily ever afters are not for her. She is determined to dedicate her life to her daughters and nothing more. That is until she meets a stranger in the park that sends shock waves through her body.
The stranger, the hero, Miles the Marquess of Guilford, is resigned to marry for convenience and to settle without love. He has agree to his mother's terms to marry his childhood friend if he is still unattached on his 30th birthday. That is until he finds a little girl, picking flowers, alone in the park. That is when he meets her mother and those shock waves attack him as well.
Along with the hero and heroine, you once again encounter Gabriel and Jane as well as Bainbridge ( all from previous Heart of a Duke Series). You will meet both Phillipa and Miles' mother as well as Lord Montfort (he comes icy and mean but I'm not so sure).
Can the Miles truly found love and happiness with this woman? He selflessly give his love and affection to two little girls, to be their father even though they have no blood ties? Can he successfully woo his widow to believe in love and happily ever afters?
Can Phillipa let go of her past, the pain and hurt, to see if love can truly be possible for her? Will she let herself be wooed or will she hold steadfast to her convictions and remain a widow?
This is a must read. It can be read as a stand alone but I highly recommend reading the previous books in the series to have the back story on the secondary characters. And to have other fabulous books to read. Also don't forget to check out her Lord of Honor series as well.
Once again, another fantastic read by Christi caldwell. She just can't write them fast enough for me. ;)
Heartwarming and heartbreaking, beautiful, enrapturing, hopeful, elegant, and equisitely written. Those are just some of the words that describe this story. Christi Caldwell has done it over and over again. Another cant put down read for me. Almost all of her books of broken heros and heroines are relatable and awe inspiring. This one is no different. Her talent with the written word is riviting and refreshing.
Between the pages of To Woo a Widow, you will find the heroine, Phillipa, who is left a widow and a mother of two little girls. After a dibilitating marriage, she decides love, fairy tales and happily ever afters are not for her. She is determined to dedicate her life to her daughters and nothing more. That is until she meets a stranger in the park that sends shock waves through her body.
The stranger, the hero, Miles the Marquess of Guilford, is resigned to marry for convenience and to settle without love. He has agree to his mother's terms to marry his childhood friend if he is still unattached on his 30th birthday. That is until he finds a little girl, picking flowers, alone in the park. That is when he meets her mother and those shock waves attack him as well.
Along with the hero and heroine, you once again encounter Gabriel and Jane as well as Bainbridge ( all from previous Heart of a Duke Series). You will meet both Phillipa and Miles' mother as well as Lord Montfort (he comes icy and mean but I'm not so sure).
Can the Miles truly found love and happiness with this woman? He selflessly give his love and affection to two little girls, to be their father even though they have no blood ties? Can he successfully woo his widow to believe in love and happily ever afters?
Can Phillipa let go of her past, the pain and hurt, to see if love can truly be possible for her? Will she let herself be wooed or will she hold steadfast to her convictions and remain a widow?
This is a must read. It can be read as a stand alone but I highly recommend reading the previous books in the series to have the back story on the secondary characters. And to have other fabulous books to read. Also don't forget to check out her Lord of Honor series as well.
Once again, another fantastic read by Christi caldwell. She just can't write them fast enough for me. ;)
February 15, 2020
Es hat mich wieder ins historische England gezogen und so war es doch recht praktisch, dass es nun ein neues Buch von Christi Caldwell gibt. So habe ich nun zu diesem gegriffen, da ich die anderen Bücher der Autorin bisher sehr mochte.
In diesem Kurzroman stehen Philippa und Miles im Vordergrund. Beide treffen sich zufällig im Park und Miles scheint recht angetan von ihr. Er will sie definitiv wiedersehen, aber seine Mutter will es ihm ausreden, denn er muss heiraten, aber sie hat ein anderes Mädchen ausgewählt und Philippa ist bereits Witwe und hatte es die letzten Jahre sehr schwer.
Ich fand die Geschichte recht unterhaltsam, denn es war sehr nett zu sehen, wie beide zusammenkommen. Die Autorin hat einige Überraschungen parat, wie Familie, sodass ich mich echt toll amüsiert habe. Dieser ist es auch wirklich gelungen toll auf den Punkt zu schreiben, sodass die Handlung wunderbar flüssig ist und es keinen Leerlauf gibt, denn es war immer was los. Es werden einige Klischees bedient, wie die damaligen Voraussetzungen für eine Heirat und was jeder sich davon wünscht, aber das ist in jedem Genre zu erwarten, denke ich.
Kleiner Kritikpunkt von mir ist, dass die Handlung einfach zu kurz war und die Autorin durchaus noch hätte mehr ins Detail gehen können, wenn das Buch mehr Seiten gehabt hätte.
Die Protagonisten waren liebevoll gezeichnet und es waren mir eigentlich alle sympathisch. Philippa muss ich besonders erwähnen, denn sie ist bewundernswert. Ich meine, welche Frau würde so gut mit solch einer schrecklichen Situation umgehen. Miles war als männlicher Hauptcharakter ebenso wirklich reizend und machten einen überzeugenden Eindruck.
Die Schreibweise war ausgesprochen angenehm und alles wirkte sehr rund. Die Handlung wird aus wechselnder Perspektive der beiden Hauptcharaktere erzählt, was schön abwechslungsreich ist. Der Geschichte konnte man gut folgen, denn es war alles plausibel und gut zu verstehen.
Das Cover gefällt mir gut.
Fazit:
Reizender, unterhaltsamer Liebesroman, der durchaus hätte etwas länger sein dürfen. Kann ich aber dennoch weiterempfehlen.
5 von 5 Sterne
In diesem Kurzroman stehen Philippa und Miles im Vordergrund. Beide treffen sich zufällig im Park und Miles scheint recht angetan von ihr. Er will sie definitiv wiedersehen, aber seine Mutter will es ihm ausreden, denn er muss heiraten, aber sie hat ein anderes Mädchen ausgewählt und Philippa ist bereits Witwe und hatte es die letzten Jahre sehr schwer.
Ich fand die Geschichte recht unterhaltsam, denn es war sehr nett zu sehen, wie beide zusammenkommen. Die Autorin hat einige Überraschungen parat, wie Familie, sodass ich mich echt toll amüsiert habe. Dieser ist es auch wirklich gelungen toll auf den Punkt zu schreiben, sodass die Handlung wunderbar flüssig ist und es keinen Leerlauf gibt, denn es war immer was los. Es werden einige Klischees bedient, wie die damaligen Voraussetzungen für eine Heirat und was jeder sich davon wünscht, aber das ist in jedem Genre zu erwarten, denke ich.
Kleiner Kritikpunkt von mir ist, dass die Handlung einfach zu kurz war und die Autorin durchaus noch hätte mehr ins Detail gehen können, wenn das Buch mehr Seiten gehabt hätte.
Die Protagonisten waren liebevoll gezeichnet und es waren mir eigentlich alle sympathisch. Philippa muss ich besonders erwähnen, denn sie ist bewundernswert. Ich meine, welche Frau würde so gut mit solch einer schrecklichen Situation umgehen. Miles war als männlicher Hauptcharakter ebenso wirklich reizend und machten einen überzeugenden Eindruck.
Die Schreibweise war ausgesprochen angenehm und alles wirkte sehr rund. Die Handlung wird aus wechselnder Perspektive der beiden Hauptcharaktere erzählt, was schön abwechslungsreich ist. Der Geschichte konnte man gut folgen, denn es war alles plausibel und gut zu verstehen.
Das Cover gefällt mir gut.
Fazit:
Reizender, unterhaltsamer Liebesroman, der durchaus hätte etwas länger sein dürfen. Kann ich aber dennoch weiterempfehlen.
5 von 5 Sterne
February 28, 2022
Ich bin ein großer Fan der historischen Liebesromane von Christi Caldwell und habe bereits einige Bände der "Herz des Herzogs"-Reihe gelesen, die alle in sich geschlossen sind und unabhängig voneinander gelesen werden können.
Die beiden Hauptfiguren - Lady Philippa Winston und Miles Brookfield - habe ich schnell ins Herz geschlossen.
Lady Philippa ist fest entschlossen, sich nach dem Tod ihres kaltherzigen Ehemannes nie wieder in die Abhängigkeit einer weiteren Ehe zu begeben. Nach und nach erfahren die Leser*innen, was für ein Unmensch ihr verstorbener Ehemann gewesen war, so dass es nicht verwundert, dass die Ehe sie regelrecht traumatisiert zu haben scheint.
Miles Brookfield, Marquis of Guilford, ist ein Mann voller Pflichtgefühl, der jedoch ebenso Träume und Wünsche hat, wie die Leser*innen im Laufe der Handlung erfahren.
Bereits die erste Begegnung zwischen Miles und Philippa sowie ihren beiden Töchtern ist humorvoll, aber auch sehr herzerwärmend. Wie ihre kleine Tochter Faith ihn sofort um den kleinen Finger wickelt und er auch im weiteren Verlauf mit ihr umgeht, ist einfach so niedlich und rührend, dass man als Leser*in gar nicht umhin kommt, sie alle ins Herz zu schließen. Die knisternde Atmosphäre zwischen Philippa und Miles ist mit Händen nahezu greifbar ebenso wie die emotionale Verbundenheit.
Der Schreibstil ist flüssig, der Handlung leicht zu folgen.
Eine äußerst lesenswerte Lektüre fürs Herz.
Die beiden Hauptfiguren - Lady Philippa Winston und Miles Brookfield - habe ich schnell ins Herz geschlossen.
Lady Philippa ist fest entschlossen, sich nach dem Tod ihres kaltherzigen Ehemannes nie wieder in die Abhängigkeit einer weiteren Ehe zu begeben. Nach und nach erfahren die Leser*innen, was für ein Unmensch ihr verstorbener Ehemann gewesen war, so dass es nicht verwundert, dass die Ehe sie regelrecht traumatisiert zu haben scheint.
Miles Brookfield, Marquis of Guilford, ist ein Mann voller Pflichtgefühl, der jedoch ebenso Träume und Wünsche hat, wie die Leser*innen im Laufe der Handlung erfahren.
Bereits die erste Begegnung zwischen Miles und Philippa sowie ihren beiden Töchtern ist humorvoll, aber auch sehr herzerwärmend. Wie ihre kleine Tochter Faith ihn sofort um den kleinen Finger wickelt und er auch im weiteren Verlauf mit ihr umgeht, ist einfach so niedlich und rührend, dass man als Leser*in gar nicht umhin kommt, sie alle ins Herz zu schließen. Die knisternde Atmosphäre zwischen Philippa und Miles ist mit Händen nahezu greifbar ebenso wie die emotionale Verbundenheit.
Der Schreibstil ist flüssig, der Handlung leicht zu folgen.
Eine äußerst lesenswerte Lektüre fürs Herz.
November 7, 2023
Lady Philippa Winston and Marquess of Guilford (Miles) have a meet cute in the park after he has been charmed by her daughter Faith picking flowers along Miles riding path. Philippa had an unhappy childhood and marriage, but after meeting Miles and her interactions with her Sister in law Jane finds her inner strength to speak her mind and be strong about her convictions. Miles has promised to marry his mother's God daughter if he is not married before his 30th birthday. His mother is determined to have occur no matter who she hurts along the way though makes you wonder if Sybil or Miles have any say in the matter. Sybil is a delight will read her story next as Montford is not someone that I care to see redeemed as of yet. Really enjoyed reading how Miles encouraged Philippa to feel safe and be her true self, his interactions with Faith and Violet are sweet and how protective he is regarding Philippa with his mother with her one track mind.
January 23, 2019
Pity party... *eyeroll*...
I am still trying to understand what makes this woman strong, brave and blah blah blah.
I managed to finish it, although it took a while. I had to take breaks from the story because the sentiment the author tried to evoke just created annoyance in my spirit. It was as though I was to believe she had experienced the absolute worst of horrors for a woman of her time... and somehow she had managed to emerge, fight and overcome it all. This isn't the case.
Not to mention her WHININGGGG about her family not noticing her difficulties and then, every opportunity that ia given to tell them, once they ask, she lies... AND she also justifies lying to her children over nonsense... I just had VERY little patience with this character and her "challenges".
I am still trying to understand what makes this woman strong, brave and blah blah blah.
I managed to finish it, although it took a while. I had to take breaks from the story because the sentiment the author tried to evoke just created annoyance in my spirit. It was as though I was to believe she had experienced the absolute worst of horrors for a woman of her time... and somehow she had managed to emerge, fight and overcome it all. This isn't the case.
Not to mention her WHININGGGG about her family not noticing her difficulties and then, every opportunity that ia given to tell them, once they ask, she lies... AND she also justifies lying to her children over nonsense... I just had VERY little patience with this character and her "challenges".
April 25, 2020
Das Verlangen des Herzogs
Christi Caldwell ist ein Garant für herzergreifende Liebesromane im alten England.
Und dies ist schon der 10. Roman dieser Reihe und noch immer so gut, dass man das Buch nicht aus der Hand legen möchte.
Miles ist so ehrenhaft und voller Gefühl, dass man nicht meinen möchte, dass er in dieser Zeit lebt, ob er die vollendeten Manieren seiner Zeit hat, so hat er doch kaum diesen Dünkel und die Arroganz. Er will keine junge und formbare Debutantin, vielmehr hat es ihm die Witwe Philippa und ihre Kinder angetan. Diese will nach sechs Ehejahren, in dem sie nur als "Produzentin eines Erbes" angesehen wurde, nichts mehr von einer erneuten Ehe wissen, obwohl die Verwandtschaft dazu drängt. Es ist schön zu lesen, wie auch zwei starke Charaktere in dieser Zeit zueinander finden können.
Christi Caldwell ist ein Garant für herzergreifende Liebesromane im alten England.
Und dies ist schon der 10. Roman dieser Reihe und noch immer so gut, dass man das Buch nicht aus der Hand legen möchte.
Miles ist so ehrenhaft und voller Gefühl, dass man nicht meinen möchte, dass er in dieser Zeit lebt, ob er die vollendeten Manieren seiner Zeit hat, so hat er doch kaum diesen Dünkel und die Arroganz. Er will keine junge und formbare Debutantin, vielmehr hat es ihm die Witwe Philippa und ihre Kinder angetan. Diese will nach sechs Ehejahren, in dem sie nur als "Produzentin eines Erbes" angesehen wurde, nichts mehr von einer erneuten Ehe wissen, obwohl die Verwandtschaft dazu drängt. Es ist schön zu lesen, wie auch zwei starke Charaktere in dieser Zeit zueinander finden können.
September 29, 2020
Lady Philippa Winston is never marrying again. After her late husband's cruelty that she kept so well hidden, she has no desire to search for love.
Miles Brookfield, the Marquess of Guilford, made a frivolous vow he never though he would have to go thru.
Until the Lady Philippa and the Marquess meets and opens up their lives. Philippa doesn't believe in fairytales and couples in love matrimonies'. Miles wants to show her romance, gentleness and that dreams can come true. Will society allow Miles to woo a widow of two. can love win over societies damages that a woman is only around to create an heir. Can Miles show Philippa what sensuality's and sexuality's can be for a woman. Or will she just run away to be a good mother to her daughters and sacrifice her own desires. Read and find out. It has romance, love, caring and intimacy
Miles Brookfield, the Marquess of Guilford, made a frivolous vow he never though he would have to go thru.
Until the Lady Philippa and the Marquess meets and opens up their lives. Philippa doesn't believe in fairytales and couples in love matrimonies'. Miles wants to show her romance, gentleness and that dreams can come true. Will society allow Miles to woo a widow of two. can love win over societies damages that a woman is only around to create an heir. Can Miles show Philippa what sensuality's and sexuality's can be for a woman. Or will she just run away to be a good mother to her daughters and sacrifice her own desires. Read and find out. It has romance, love, caring and intimacy
July 10, 2024
philippa had a bad marriage as her late husband was cruel towards her. now that she’s a widow and free, she never wants to marry again. however, a chance encounter with the marquess of guilford pulled philippa’s heartstrings again and now she’s constantly thinking about miles. meanwhile, miles is entranced by philippa and her two young children, faith and violet. their interactions were really sweet and i was cheering for them so much.
"You once told me that you'd ceased to believe in fairytales." Gathering her fingers in his, Miles raised her knuckles to his lips and placed a lingering kiss that sent shivers radiating. "I wanted to gift you and our daughters with something to forever remind you of my love. A gift to remind each of you that fairytales are very much real."
July 29, 2019
A bit too short but other than that a perfect read for a hot summer day.
Heroine's husband died of natural causes, she is now finally free and back in her former home with her daughters. Loved her as a character; she was characterized as meek, obedient and boring in the previous books by her family but I can see that that has changed and is changing throughout the book.
The hero is no rogue or rake; he is supposed to marry an acquaintance but then he stumbles across a little girl advising him on how to pick flowers and her beautiful mother.
Loved the hero, pretty much flawless.
Plot?
As always, a few more chapters or at least one that shows us how she reconciles with her family, especially the brother she detests because he had introduced her to her late husband, would have been nice.
Heroine's husband died of natural causes, she is now finally free and back in her former home with her daughters. Loved her as a character; she was characterized as meek, obedient and boring in the previous books by her family but I can see that that has changed and is changing throughout the book.
The hero is no rogue or rake; he is supposed to marry an acquaintance but then he stumbles across a little girl advising him on how to pick flowers and her beautiful mother.
Loved the hero, pretty much flawless.
Plot?
As always, a few more chapters or at least one that shows us how she reconciles with her family, especially the brother she detests because he had introduced her to her late husband, would have been nice.
May 21, 2025
👎❌
Very rushed.
Very predictable.
Too short.
Anachronistic.
Has indirect and direct fat-phobia and body-shaming/fat-shaming (Like many of this authors books and characters seems to have… at least many of the older ones I have read by this author before I joined Goodreads)
Very formulaic main characters (Like all the books and main characters I have read before by this author was… except one.
All the main characters seem interchangeable when it comes to their appearance but also other things… all the MMC have been/was tall and muscular and all but one FMC was slender or skinny… there is little to no variation or diversity.
OTT.
Problematic undercurrent.
Very rushed.
Very predictable.
Too short.
Anachronistic.
Has indirect and direct fat-phobia and body-shaming/fat-shaming (Like many of this authors books and characters seems to have… at least many of the older ones I have read by this author before I joined Goodreads)
Very formulaic main characters (Like all the books and main characters I have read before by this author was… except one.
All the main characters seem interchangeable when it comes to their appearance but also other things… all the MMC have been/was tall and muscular and all but one FMC was slender or skinny… there is little to no variation or diversity.
OTT.
Problematic undercurrent.
May 29, 2019
I have enjoyed this whole series & the story & characters Christi created were great entertainment. Miles Brookfield, the Marquess of Guilford was our hero - he was kind, honorable, handsome & I loved his interaction with Lady Philippa Winston's young daughters. Philippa has come out of a miserable arranged marriage & is beginning to enjoy her freedom as a widow. The only negative about this book is they fell in love & married too quickly. There were some very tender & emotional moments in the story that I loved!
January 11, 2020
In " Das Verlangen des Herzogs " hat Witwe Lady Philippa nicht noch mal vor zu heiraten, war ihre Ehe alles andere als angenehm und so möchte sie mit ihre Töchtern einfach nur zufrieden leben.
Bis sie auf den Marquis of Guilford trifft, den Miles weckt in ihr einen Wunsch, von dem Philippa dachte, ihn für immer verdrängt zu haben.
Miles hat einst seiner Mutter versprochen, wenn er mit dreißig noch unverheiratet wäre, würde er ihre Patentochter zur Frau nehmen.
Doch jetzt kurz bevor es gilt, zu diesem Versprechen zu stehen, lernt Miles im Park eine bezaubernde Frau kennen und ist nicht bereit seiner Mutter ihren Wunsch zu erfüllen.
Aber hat Miles überhaupt eine Chance bei Philippa, oder ist sie nicht bereit nochmal ihr Leben in die Hände eines Mannes zu legen?
Die Story lässt sich leicht und flüssig lesen, bleibt dabei spannungsgeladen sowie abwechslungsreich. Man darf mit Philippa und Miles mitfiebern und die verschiedesten Emotionen erleben. Es gibt einiges zum schmunzeln bis herzhaft zu lachen, aber auch das ein oder andere Tränchen zu vergießen.
Da ich erfahren wollte, ob Miles werben um Philippa Erfolg hatte, musste ich das Buch in einem Rutsch durchlesen.
Das Buch bekommt von mir eine Lese / Kaufempfehlung und 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Sterne.
Bis sie auf den Marquis of Guilford trifft, den Miles weckt in ihr einen Wunsch, von dem Philippa dachte, ihn für immer verdrängt zu haben.
Miles hat einst seiner Mutter versprochen, wenn er mit dreißig noch unverheiratet wäre, würde er ihre Patentochter zur Frau nehmen.
Doch jetzt kurz bevor es gilt, zu diesem Versprechen zu stehen, lernt Miles im Park eine bezaubernde Frau kennen und ist nicht bereit seiner Mutter ihren Wunsch zu erfüllen.
Aber hat Miles überhaupt eine Chance bei Philippa, oder ist sie nicht bereit nochmal ihr Leben in die Hände eines Mannes zu legen?
Die Story lässt sich leicht und flüssig lesen, bleibt dabei spannungsgeladen sowie abwechslungsreich. Man darf mit Philippa und Miles mitfiebern und die verschiedesten Emotionen erleben. Es gibt einiges zum schmunzeln bis herzhaft zu lachen, aber auch das ein oder andere Tränchen zu vergießen.
Da ich erfahren wollte, ob Miles werben um Philippa Erfolg hatte, musste ich das Buch in einem Rutsch durchlesen.
Das Buch bekommt von mir eine Lese / Kaufempfehlung und 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Sterne.
February 10, 2020
Ich liebe die Geschichte von Phillipa und Miles.
Wie immer schreibt Ms. Caldwell mit viel Liebe, Herz, Humor, aber niemals ist bei ihr nur alles Sonnenschein und Rosen. Jedenfalls nicht am Anfang, denn Phillipa hat Schweres durchgemacht, was auch wieder eine Triggerwarnung verdient.
Er ist der 10. Band einer Reihe, die unabhängig von einander gelesen werden können, aber da man immer wieder auch die anderen Paare vorfindet, macht es Sinn, sich zumindest alle mal anzuschauen.
Ein großartiges Buch für alle, die gerne historische Liebesgeschichten lesen, die auch Ecken und Kanten haben.
Wie immer schreibt Ms. Caldwell mit viel Liebe, Herz, Humor, aber niemals ist bei ihr nur alles Sonnenschein und Rosen. Jedenfalls nicht am Anfang, denn Phillipa hat Schweres durchgemacht, was auch wieder eine Triggerwarnung verdient.
Er ist der 10. Band einer Reihe, die unabhängig von einander gelesen werden können, aber da man immer wieder auch die anderen Paare vorfindet, macht es Sinn, sich zumindest alle mal anzuschauen.
Ein großartiges Buch für alle, die gerne historische Liebesgeschichten lesen, die auch Ecken und Kanten haben.
September 11, 2018
I am constantly torn by Caldwell's books. She is a horrendously repetitive writer with horrible grammer and in dire need of editing, but she has good emotion and engaging characters. I feel like my reviews are growing as repetitive as all of her pat phrases. If you are going to read one Caldwell book, this is one of the better ones, though just a novella. However, to some extent, you may as well stop after one because they
ALL have the exact same phrases over and over and over ad nauseum.
ALL have the exact same phrases over and over and over ad nauseum.
August 5, 2018
A wonderful love story
This is a story of love that needs to overcome self doubt and the importance of love in one's life. Phillipa has not had an easy life or marriage,but through love we see her emerge a stronger version of herself, Miles is a wonderful hero. The book is a quicker read than other books in this series and we get to see a few other characters that were in previous books, I would recommend this book.
This is a story of love that needs to overcome self doubt and the importance of love in one's life. Phillipa has not had an easy life or marriage,but through love we see her emerge a stronger version of herself, Miles is a wonderful hero. The book is a quicker read than other books in this series and we get to see a few other characters that were in previous books, I would recommend this book.
March 29, 2021
nun ist wieder ein Herzog unter der Haube, aber bis dahin ist es diesmal ein kurzer Weg. Genauso unterhaltsam wie seine Vorgänger, legt auch dieses Buch seinen Finger auf eine wunde Stelle in den gesellschaftlichen Konventionen ihrer Zeit.
Die Protagonisten sind glaubwürdig in ihrem Verhalten und trotzdem sehr verschieden zu ihren Zeitgenossen. Das macht die Verfolgung der Geschichte spannend denn sie agieren eher unerwartet und die daraus folgenden Reaktionen sind für uns Leser zum Lachen.
Die Protagonisten sind glaubwürdig in ihrem Verhalten und trotzdem sehr verschieden zu ihren Zeitgenossen. Das macht die Verfolgung der Geschichte spannend denn sie agieren eher unerwartet und die daraus folgenden Reaktionen sind für uns Leser zum Lachen.
December 24, 2017
Too short :(
Oh but such a lovely story. I wish there was more to it though. I am glad they found one another and they had a sweet romance. I am glad she didn't marry him to avoid another for either of them, which I thought was going to happen. And the gift at the end? I melted, how amazing.
Oh but such a lovely story. I wish there was more to it though. I am glad they found one another and they had a sweet romance. I am glad she didn't marry him to avoid another for either of them, which I thought was going to happen. And the gift at the end? I melted, how amazing.
June 5, 2018
Perfect escape reading to warm the heart
An impeccable novella by an Impeccable author. A widowed countess full of fear and anger at the abuse and obtuseness of her father and deceased husband (and all men) runs smack into a marquess full of life and compassion. Angst cannot overwhelm love in a true HEA as Ms Caldwell affirms always in her delightful works.
An impeccable novella by an Impeccable author. A widowed countess full of fear and anger at the abuse and obtuseness of her father and deceased husband (and all men) runs smack into a marquess full of life and compassion. Angst cannot overwhelm love in a true HEA as Ms Caldwell affirms always in her delightful works.
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