Only For His Lady

The Theodosia Sword #1

by Christi Caldwell

***Please note, "Only For His Lady" was previously featured in the "With Dreams Only of You" collection. It now features a prologue and epilogue! It is an approximately 30,000 word novella.

A curse. A sword. And the thief who stole her heart.

The Rayne family is trapped in a rut of bad luck. And now, it's up to Lady Theodosia Rayne to steal back the Theodosia sword, a gladius that was pilfered by the rival, loathed Renshaw family. Hopefully, recovering the stolen sword will break the cycle and reverse her family's fate.

Damian Renshaw, the Duke of Devlin, is feared by all--all, that is, except Lady Theodosia, the brazen spitfire who enters his home and wrestles an ancient relic from his wall. Intrigued by the vivacious woman, Devlin has no intentions of relinquishing the sword to her.

As Theodosia and Damian battle for ownership, passion ignites. Now, they are torn between their age-old feud and the fire that burns between them. Can two forbidden lovers find a way to make amends before their families' war tears them apart?

Genres: Historical Romance, Romance, Historical, Historical Fiction, Regency, Novella, Fiction

130 pages, Kindle Edition

First published August 14, 2016

About the author

USA 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.

Reviews

[Trish R. · Rating 3 out of 5]

Enough of this author..

Shallow, shallow, shallow, that’s me. And I don’t care who knows it. As much as I liked this novella I won’t be reading any more of Christi Caldwell’s books. As I’ve said time and again I live in the real world and when I read it’s to get out of it. I don’t care to read about the heroine being too plain, too plump, too unattractive, or too anything. I want a hero that’s drop-dead gorgeous and a heroine who’s perfectly beautiful. NOT PLUMP, as Theodosia was said to be 10 times in this little story, or too rounded as she was said to be 3 or 4 times. At one point she told Damian “I’m fat.” Really?

It was a cute story about a broadsword that was owned by one family but wanted by another, and by the daughter who went to steal it one night, and the whole thing became quite funny. But the two families were kind of ridiculous to continue with a feud that started before any of them were even born. Theo’s brother Aiden was a bully and the other one Richard was a big whiner. Carol and Herbie were good friends to Theo. Damian’s brother was a jerk and his other brother was sweet and knew what he was talking about. All the parents were all just idiots.

Ms. Caldwell is a good writer but I simply cannot read her anymore. One book will be exactly what I’m looking for in a heroine and the next one the heroine will be too-something. There are writers out there who write heroines the way I want them so I’ll stick to those writers. Sorry.

There's no sex in this book but there was desire. No swearing, either.

As to the narration: Wonderful. It was Tim Campbell who made the book so enjoyable. His female voices were great and Damian’s voice was to-die-for it was soooo deep and sexy. Whew!

[Yesse · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5/5 ⭐️ 0.5/5🌶

[Melanie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Only for His Lady was an enjoyable read featuring an enemies to lovers romance with an intriguing plot surrounding a legendary sword.

Lady Theodosia Rayne aims to right her family’s fortunes by retrieving the Theodosia sword, a sword said to bless the family who owns it. After the sword was stolen from the Raynes by the Renshaw family, the Renshaws fortunes only grew while the Raynes have suffered loss after loss. But Theo never imagined her plans would be foiled by Damian Renshaw, the Duke of Devlin himself, or that she would be hopelessly attracted to the devil. As Theo and Damian enter a battle of wills for the sword, the two must confront the attraction between them before their families’ hatred tears them apart.

Theodosia and Damian’s relationship gets off to a rocky start with a case of mistaken identity leading Theo to confess more than she should. After Damian’s identity is revealed, the pair have some fantastic banter about the sword with a few subtle remarks about their attraction to one another. Any romance between the two would be forbidden due to their families which put a bit of a damper on things. While I did enjoy the forbidden aspect of their relationship as well as the clear attraction between the two, I felt there simply wasn’t enough time for more to develop between them. Had the story been longer and allowed for more than a few scenes of them together, I likely would have enjoyed the romance more.

The plot centered on the Theodosia sword was interesting and I liked the history the author built around the sword. It was interesting seeing Theo and Damian have wildly different views surrounding the sword at the beginning only for that to slowly change over time. My one complaint about this storyline was I found its’ resolution to be a bit anticlimactic and wish it had been settled in a different manner.

Overall I did like Only for His Lady despite wishing it had been longer to allow the romance more time to develop. I will be continuing on with the series and hope to pick up the next book, Only for Her Honor, soon.

[Kimberly Rocha~ Book Obsessed Chicks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Generations of strife between two families stemming from the theft of a broadsword is theme for this inventive and entertaining tale by talented author, Christi Caldwell.

Ever since the Rayne family lost the Theodosia broadsword to the Renshaw family, who stole it many years prior, the Raynes have had nothing but bad luck in so many aspects of their lives. Now, Lady Theodosia Rayne, who takes her namesake to heart, is determined to retrieve that which was stolen from her family and restore some luck and perhaps some happiness.

Damian Renshaw, the current Duke of Devlin, is formidable man. He incites fear in many due to his reputation and an ugly scar marring his otherwise handsome visage. Usually bored with the balls held at his home, this time something catches his attention. Well maybe not something, but someone, attired in masquerade wear attempting to look like a man, but clearly a woman with generous assets. His interest piqued, Damian follows the woman and discovers her in the midst of a mess, trying to steal his sword.

At first Theodosia has no idea she has been cornered by the Devil Duke himself, thinking he is assistance, sent by a friend to abscond with the broadsword. When she realizes he is one of the enemy, she clearly states her purpose without fear or chagrin. Damian is fascinated by the fearless Theodosia and allows her to escape. And so begins the cat and mouse game between the Devil Duke and his not so unwilling prey.

Now if that doesn't grab your attention and make you one-click this wonderfully written story, I don't know what will. ONLY FOR HIS LADY is a novella that packs a full story into few words. Ms. Caldwell grabs the reader's attention and doesn't let go. The Devil Duke and Theodosia are brilliant characters with great personalities, and their tale just may might just mean the end of a feud, but you need to read it to find out!

[Zoë Ann Book Queen · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 magical little stars

[Shawna Wood · Rating 5 out of 5]

Christi Caldwell hit's it out of the park again. I really don't know what I would have done with my life, if she had never written a book. Even in this short story, she is able to bring in so much depth and emotion that can be lacking in many full length novels.

The Rayne and Renshaw family are like the more civilized version Hatfield's and McCoy's. Their family's have hated each other for centuries due to the theft of Theodosia sword. While the Renshaw family has enjoyed a prosperous life the Rayne family has suffered nothing but disaster and now believe they are cursed.

Theo has had enough of her family's fate. With a brother missing and another drinking himself to death over a broken heart, she has decided to steal the Theodosia sword back. She sneaks into the Renshaw estate during a masquerade ball but stealing the sword proves to be harder to then she thought.

Damien, the Duke of Devlin has had enough of his party and has decided to seek solace in his study. Instead of solitude, he finds his study a mess and a girl trying to steal his sword. Damien is used to women who only see him as a Duke with power and money and he isn't prepared for Theo who shows no fear or care for who Damien is and what power he holds.

Theo and Damien ignite a dangerous passion within each other that night. As the offspring's of two warring families, their love can never be a possibility. But as each day passes, Damien and Theo realizes they can not stay away from each other. But can they overcome the bitter feud that has ensnared their families for centuries, to bring peace, love and healing to old wounds. Or is their love doomed before it even begins.

[April · Rating 5 out of 5]

**Previously featured in "With Dreams Only of You" collection. Which now includes a prologue and epilogue! **

Only For His Lady by Christi Caldwell is another great read by this author. I absolutely love everything she has written, thus far.
"Only For His Lady", is Book 1 in what promises to be a most intriguing series, "The Theodosia Sword".
This is the story of Damian Renshaw, the Duke of Devlin and Lady Theodosia Rayne's story.
The Renshaw and Rayne's family have been rivals for years. But will stealing the Theodosia sword back from a Renshaw return the Rayne's good forture and lift the curse, forever?

Intrigue, adventure, a sword, a curse, passion and romance, makes "Only For His Lady", a very enticing story. But will Theodosia and Damian's love survive or will all be lost?
A fierce, brazen lady meets a thief in the night, what follows is captivating, as well as mesmerizing.
Another hit! I recommend "Only For His Lady", to fans of Historical Romance, legends, rivals, and anyone who love a great, quick read. While, only about 114 pages, they are packed full of exhilarating entertainment! Ms. Caldwell, will leave readers all agog with her engaging characters and her intriguing storyline. I can't wait to read the next installment of "The Theodosia Sword". A must read!


*Personal buy*


Rating: 4.5
Heat rating: Mild
Reviewed by: AprilR

[Joann Maggio · Rating 5 out of 5]

Only for His Lady ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ ⭐️Written by Christi Caldwell

Can a family feud, a curse and a missing sword divert love. Let's see.

Theodosia Rayne has been raised to believe her family has been trapped in bad luck due to the loss of The Theodosia a sword that was so called acquired by the Renshaw family. She believes that if she can recover the sword from the Renshaws and return it to her family, the rightful owners, all will be well.

Since the Raynes have lost the sword they have been arch enemies with the Renshaws. Theodosia makes it her mission to steal the sword back. The Duke of Devlin has no intentions of giving the sword up.

This is a fully packed novella the story lacks nothing feuding, revenge, love and hate. Miss Caldwell is a true story teller her dialogue and her characters are so natural and true. They can be scared, they can be overweight, introverted or flamboyant. She is an artist with a wide talented brush. I am never disappointed in the humanity of her characters.

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved that the duke didn't do as his family expected or fall for false information. He took all his cues from the interactions between him and the heroine.

I can't wait for more in this series.

[Ltlmer2 · Rating 4 out of 5]

I came upon this in an anthology and hadn't read anything from Caldwell in a while, but I was immediately reminded what I love and hate about her writing. She writes engaging and endearing characters with good emotion and dialogue BUT everything else needs work. Her books include aĺl the same phrases on repeat and her grammer and punctuation skills are still sadly lacking. Every one of her heroes is 6'3" (or 4), has rusty laughs, overlong hair, lounges on leather button sofas, and clenches their fists at their side. All her heroines have heart-shaped faces, roll their eyes, point their fingers into people, and constantly have their hair falling out of their coiffures. Could be male or female, but someone will want to plant a facer. The list of pat phrases goes on and on, and even years after reading one of her books, I picked up on them from literally the first page of this story.

The stars are srictly for the strength of her characters, along with the fact that I hadnt read Calwell's repetitive writing in a while so wasnt as freshly annoying. As I am reminded of previous similar reviews, it is best if you only read a couple of Caldwell's books at a time to avoid the ad nauseam effect of her writing.

Special note for this story: "Plump" is used 14 times (in a NOVELLA): we get it already.

[Gillian · Rating 5 out of 5]

How can Damian and Theodosia end the enmity between their families and find their way to love?

Theodosia Rayne makes her way into the home of Damian Renshaw, Duke of Devlin with the intention of recovering the Theodosia sword. A gladius her family believe will help to restore the family fortunes.

Damian sees her sneaking into his study and confronts her there- he is struck by the way she does not fear him (despite the scar he has had on his face since birth) nor does she feel the need to abase herself to his supposed superiority in status.

The two of them manage to overcome the enmity which has divided their families for several generations (without the need of the drastic actions taken by Romeo and Juliet!)

I look forward to reading about the other members of the family and friends.

[RomanceReadsAndScenes · Rating 4 out of 5]

Enemies to lovers. Feuding families. A curse surrounding a sword. Loved the premise. I breezed through the novella and was hooked. Wish it could’ve been longer since some developments seemed rushed. But for a novella, I enjoyed it. In terms of steam, a lot of tension, chemistry and PG-13 action. However, loved it for a quick and light read.

I will say that I didn’t care for how a lot of arguments or insults toward the hero and heroine focused on their physical appearances (I.e., his scar or her weight). However, I do like how the main characters embrace themselves as they are and support one another when they feel insecure.

[KelseyreadsHR · Rating 3 out of 5]

A cute fast paced novella with likable MC. I liked how both MC stood up to their families. Wasn’t a fan of how the heroine referred to herself as fat when all other times in the story she was only referred to as plump and it came at a time of passion. I liked that there was a fuller figured heroine but was turned off with that line.

There are three kisses and encounter interrupted prior to encounter starting.

[Rachel Smart · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love love love this book

A lighthearted romance I love this book. Theo is such a strong and courageous lady. She is determined that the sword belongs to her family and she is going to get it. She totally disarms Damien, the Devil Duke. The author writes a sweet story around the forklore of the sword. There are steamy kisses but to sex. A quick and delightful read.

[Sandy · Rating 3 out of 5]

It was an ok story I read as part of the Dukes for Dessert collection. It was one of the better stories in the anthology but as others have said this story was too short for much development.

I hated the constant blinking thing but loved that it helped Damien not fall for the cruel lie Theo’s brother assigned to her motives.

[Gemma · Rating 3 out of 5]

I’m a fan of this author, but this one just didn’t do it for me. I didn’t love the characters the way I normally do with her books.

I read the series out of order, I read the third book when it was included in a Christmas collection. Loved that one. Going to read the second book now.

[Deniz · Rating 2 out of 5]

2.5 Stars
It's a cool idea but way too short. Everything happened way to fast and a wee bit too melodramatic for me.
I have high expectations from Caldwell so I might be a bit harsh. However, I also know I can expect more from her!
So an a bit more than an okay from me

[Caro · Rating 1 out of 5]

This book is a small story with few pages, so no time to develop the characters or the story in depth. Heroine secretly tries to steal back an ancient sword that she believes belongs to her family instead of the Devil Duke’s family. Both families hate each other because of a feud. She tries to capture the sword, gets discovered, and before you know it the hero and heroine live happily ever after - the end. Too quick, lacking chemistry.

[Maheen Saddiquie · Rating 4 out of 5]

courage of lady is quiet amazing and on the other hand the character of duke , his behavior has made the novel quiet interesting

[Ella Foisy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Only my opinion

A good book for young readers. Xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxdxdcccdxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxcxxxxxx xxx xxx xXxX xxx xxx xXxX xxx xXxX xxx xxx xxx xXxX xx

[iread · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book. It has so much humor in it I found myself laughing out loud. Page turning stuff

[Carolye · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a refreshing, quick read. Well done!

[Karen Darling · Rating 3 out of 5]

A nice short story. Very touching at the end.

[Sharon · Rating 2 out of 5]

Just ok…still reading all 3 of these novellas

[Vanessa · Rating 3 out of 5]

Trying to reclaim a Sword Theodosia sets off a chain of events that result in her and Damien drawing closer in a Forbidden courtship.

[Laurel]

Part of the Dukes for Dessert anthology.

[Elizabeth · Rating 4 out of 5]

This seemed so short but I enjoyed it. Lots of tension but I really really wish we saw this played out over a couple of months

[Dottie · Rating 4 out of 5]

The legend of the Theodosia Sword continues in Christi Caldwell's novella "Only for his Lady". If ever there was two families who had a Capulet/Montague style feud going on, it's the Raynes and Renshaws. After the Theodosia Sword has been stolen from the Rayne family (again) things have gone terribly wrong for them. While the buyers of the ancient relic prosper, the heirs of the gladius fall into ruin. Years pass and it is up to our heroine, Theodosia Rayne to retrieve her namesake and save her family from ruin.

[Diane · Rating 4 out of 5]

If any couple could give Romeo and Juliet a run for their money in the family hatred department it is Raynes and the Renshaws. The Raynes are convinced that all the bad luck that has happened to their family is the fault of the Renshaws. What did the Renshaws do to cause this hatred? They bought a sword (The Gladius) that was supposedly stolen from the Raynes years ago.
With this generation the curse continues, the heir Richard Rayne proposed to a woman who rejected him to become betrothed to arch-enemy Charles Renshaw. The last straw comes when brother Luke is reported missing in action while fighting Napoleon’s forces.
Something must be done and so Theodosia (the only daughter) decides to take matters into her own hand. She will go to the Duke’s house costumed to sneak into his masked ball and steal the Theodosia sword. After all, she was named after it, who better to retrieve it.
Dressed as Joan of Arc (in armor and breeches) she sneaks into the Duke’s study. The Damian, Duke of Devlin (or the Devil Duke as he is known in town) sees her and follows. As she makes a mess of things, she doesn’t realize that the man she thinks has come to help is really the Duke himself. Instead of sending her to jail, he kisses her and the sparks fly.
Even though, the Raynes refuse to attend any event where the Renshaws might attend, Theodosia and Damian meet again and again (on purpose). She tells him the tale of the broadsword and how it will bring happiness to the owners. Against the wished of both families Theo and Damian find love and happiness. The sword that had caused so much hatred, at last brought love to the possessors.

[Dee Deacon Foster · Rating 5 out of 5]

Determined. Foolhardy. Gutsy. All words to describe Lady Theodosia Rayne in her quest to retrieve the sword stolen from her family; a sword she was named after – the Theodosia Sword; a sword that is purported will reverse her family’s bad luck and restore their fortune. What she doesn’t count on is encountering nor falling in love with her nemesis in her retrieval.

Damian Renshaw, the Duke of Devlin, relishes his position of being feared by all; it provides him with the solitude he desires. That is until he meets the spitfire trying to steal a piece of his family’s treasure. He becomes intrigued by the beauty who defies centuries of animosity between the families to right what she believes is a wrong.

Each meeting between Theo and Damian is more entertaining than the last and provides an insight into what fuels the family feud. As the battle continues for the right of ownership will truths come to light or will the past prove to be too difficult to overcome even in the face of love?

Christi Caldwell keeps providing superb stories that involve all the emotions and had me alternating between cheering Theo on (while smacking her family) to berating Damian for being so full of himself (while wanting to punch his mother!).