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Taming the Heart #1
Taming a Duke's Reckless Heart
This is an alternate cover edition - ASIN: B01FC6OCXC
With her mother gravely ill, Piper Baker’s situation grows desperate in a world unfriendly to women. Time and money dwindle to naught, and marriage is Piper’s lone option. Although potential suitors circle her skirts, none but Barrett Maddox, Duke of Manchester, captures her heart, after he saves her from a band of thieves. It is just her luck that the man Piper wants is the only one she cannot have.
For wealthy, titled bachelor Barrett Maddox, the first rule in life is to avoid marriageable virgins, at all costs, and he has been successful thus far. That is, until he rescues the delectable, auburn-haired Piper Baker. For some unfathomable reason, or in a temporary fit of insanity, he agrees to broker a match for the unfortunate lady, in the target rich New York society. While he easily thwarts inept suitors, can Barrett keep his hands to himself?
Entangled in a web they conspired to create, Piper and Barrett are left to wonder if there is anything more reckless than love.
With her mother gravely ill, Piper Baker’s situation grows desperate in a world unfriendly to women. Time and money dwindle to naught, and marriage is Piper’s lone option. Although potential suitors circle her skirts, none but Barrett Maddox, Duke of Manchester, captures her heart, after he saves her from a band of thieves. It is just her luck that the man Piper wants is the only one she cannot have.
For wealthy, titled bachelor Barrett Maddox, the first rule in life is to avoid marriageable virgins, at all costs, and he has been successful thus far. That is, until he rescues the delectable, auburn-haired Piper Baker. For some unfathomable reason, or in a temporary fit of insanity, he agrees to broker a match for the unfortunate lady, in the target rich New York society. While he easily thwarts inept suitors, can Barrett keep his hands to himself?
Entangled in a web they conspired to create, Piper and Barrett are left to wonder if there is anything more reckless than love.
236 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 24, 2016
614 people are currently reading
508 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 106 reviews
no-way-jose
November 22, 2024No rating, DNF very early on, about the time that they arrived in NY to meet up with the heroine's cousin.
I just did not like how the hero and heroine bonded so quickly, within hours of meeting each other. I think that kind of insta-smitten-like bonding took away from getting to watch the attraction slowly happen.
Their familiarity happened so quickly, it made the story feel more modern than historical. Going from strangers to calling each other by their first names (and with him being a Duke) within 24 hours was just not authentic for me. And I am NOT a stickler for keeping things historically correct.
Everything about their manners and actions seemed inappropriate for that time period, so it lost the historical romance charm that I look for.
I just did not like how the hero and heroine bonded so quickly, within hours of meeting each other. I think that kind of insta-smitten-like bonding took away from getting to watch the attraction slowly happen.
Their familiarity happened so quickly, it made the story feel more modern than historical. Going from strangers to calling each other by their first names (and with him being a Duke) within 24 hours was just not authentic for me. And I am NOT a stickler for keeping things historically correct.
Everything about their manners and actions seemed inappropriate for that time period, so it lost the historical romance charm that I look for.
October 30, 2023
3.5 Stars
I gobble this one up… but… it’s set in 1854 Boston and didn’t really have realistic historical vibes, so FYI if that bugs you. I enjoyed it, but Barrett Maddox sounds like a YA bad-boy – not a Duke. Not to mention the OW is Samantha Fox and the villain is Asher Grey. :)
Piper is BEAUTIFUL and super-duper sweet. She’s almost perfect, but her mom is sick, they’re poor, and she needs a hubs with money. STAT. Enter Barrett, he’s a Duke in America making money to fill his coffers. The two meet and are instantly smitten, but Barrett isn’t officially available because he has an arranged marriage waiting for him in England, so he agrees to help her find a suitable husband.
Bottom Line- This was a short, easy read that had a satisfying amount of angst from these two lovebirds trying to fight their feelings, and adequate drama from a jelly-ex mistress and a skeevy evil dude. It's safe, Barrett is never cruel -- ZERO feelings for any OW, and the forbidden stuff is squared away mid-book, so the plot moves along. **As I'm writing this, it is currently free in the kindle store.
Random- I’m a little confused because in this book Tom Maddox is the H’s younger brother and ends with him engaged to Penelope but in looking at future blurbs. Book 5’s Tom Maddox is the H’s cousin. (maybe there’re two Tom Maddox’s)
I gobble this one up… but… it’s set in 1854 Boston and didn’t really have realistic historical vibes, so FYI if that bugs you. I enjoyed it, but Barrett Maddox sounds like a YA bad-boy – not a Duke. Not to mention the OW is Samantha Fox and the villain is Asher Grey. :)
Piper is BEAUTIFUL and super-duper sweet. She’s almost perfect, but her mom is sick, they’re poor, and she needs a hubs with money. STAT. Enter Barrett, he’s a Duke in America making money to fill his coffers. The two meet and are instantly smitten, but Barrett isn’t officially available because he has an arranged marriage waiting for him in England, so he agrees to help her find a suitable husband.
Bottom Line- This was a short, easy read that had a satisfying amount of angst from these two lovebirds trying to fight their feelings, and adequate drama from a jelly-ex mistress and a skeevy evil dude. It's safe, Barrett is never cruel -- ZERO feelings for any OW, and the forbidden stuff is squared away mid-book, so the plot moves along. **As I'm writing this, it is currently free in the kindle store.
Random- I’m a little confused because in this book Tom Maddox is the H’s younger brother and ends with him engaged to Penelope but in looking at future blurbs. Book 5’s Tom Maddox is the H’s cousin. (maybe there’re two Tom Maddox’s)
December 21, 2021
An HR Lite that showcases an intense-ish Victorian romance between a 'trader' duke and an impoverished husband-hunting American beauty. The romance is diverting with a pretty hot chemistry and some dollops of angst. Actually, what we have is a dog in the manger romance.
Read
July 17, 2022I read this before writing reviews. Really don't remember it. Working on thinning my read categories.
July 21, 2016
I cannot fathom being at the mercy of a society so fraught with intrigue, gossip and their dirty little secrets while looking down their blue noses at those not so fortunate. That is exactly where Piper found herself, her father gone, her mother gravely ill and penniless, hardly a recommendation for marriageability for Victorian London. Perhaps mingling with the high society of the States would prove more fruitful? It wasn’t that Piper’s beauty didn’t turn heads, it was that the men were too predictable, too bland and maybe too safe for her strong spirited side. Enter the Duke of Manchester, Barrett Maddox, businessman and the soul reason his titled family could live in luxury. A sworn bachelor for as long as possible, it was his bravery that saved Piper form thugs on the attack.
The feisty Piper and the commanding Duke have chemistry that must be denied, but as Piper’s sponsor in the States, Barrett works hard to discourage any suitor with eyes for Piper’s hand. I wonder why?;) Isn’t he a free spirit fighting having to return home to fulfill his obligation of a planned marriage, or has his heart found its eternal flame in the fiery spirit of a penniless beauty?
Some Victorian romances are stiff, but some seem to throw caution to the wind and bring full-bodied characters to life with sparks flying, brilliant dialogue and sometimes humorous situations. Taming a Duke’s Reckless Heart by Tammy Andresen is romance that both drips with the flavor of the era and the passion of two hearts that are meant to be together, no matter what they say!
Great supporting characters, especially Piper’s mom, this is a wonderful read that flies by quickly!
I received this copy from Tammy Andresen in exchange for my honest review.
Publication Date: May 24, 2016
Publisher: Tammy Andresen
ISBN-10: 1533623805
ISBN-13: 978-1533623805
Genre: Historical Romance
Paperback: 232 pages
Available from: Amazon
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
The feisty Piper and the commanding Duke have chemistry that must be denied, but as Piper’s sponsor in the States, Barrett works hard to discourage any suitor with eyes for Piper’s hand. I wonder why?;) Isn’t he a free spirit fighting having to return home to fulfill his obligation of a planned marriage, or has his heart found its eternal flame in the fiery spirit of a penniless beauty?
Some Victorian romances are stiff, but some seem to throw caution to the wind and bring full-bodied characters to life with sparks flying, brilliant dialogue and sometimes humorous situations. Taming a Duke’s Reckless Heart by Tammy Andresen is romance that both drips with the flavor of the era and the passion of two hearts that are meant to be together, no matter what they say!
Great supporting characters, especially Piper’s mom, this is a wonderful read that flies by quickly!
I received this copy from Tammy Andresen in exchange for my honest review.
Publication Date: May 24, 2016
Publisher: Tammy Andresen
ISBN-10: 1533623805
ISBN-13: 978-1533623805
Genre: Historical Romance
Paperback: 232 pages
Available from: Amazon
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
August 24, 2022
Victorian era.
Hero/Duke Barrett was a world traveler, & shipping
owner. Americans Piper and her Mom traveled in
England and France. They were traveling from Boston
to NYC to visit their wealthy cousin Sybil. Beautiful
but nearly poor Piper tired of fawning suitors.
Wealthy but immature hero offered to take the 2 ladies
on his ship to NYC. He grabbed and kissed Piper many
times, gave her mixed signals, informed her she was
not wife material for him.
In England, hero's brother carried out the Duke duties
while hero operated US shipping business. His US partner
Ethan was more mature, more personable and would
have made a better hero.
Hero provided a MD for Piper's Mom who was diagnosed
with consumption, a progressive, terminal illness. Piper
later referred to this as " a bout of consumption."
Piper deserved a better man than Barrett, who should
have taken his kissy, grabby self elsewhere!
Hero/Duke Barrett was a world traveler, & shipping
owner. Americans Piper and her Mom traveled in
England and France. They were traveling from Boston
to NYC to visit their wealthy cousin Sybil. Beautiful
but nearly poor Piper tired of fawning suitors.
Wealthy but immature hero offered to take the 2 ladies
on his ship to NYC. He grabbed and kissed Piper many
times, gave her mixed signals, informed her she was
not wife material for him.
In England, hero's brother carried out the Duke duties
while hero operated US shipping business. His US partner
Ethan was more mature, more personable and would
have made a better hero.
Hero provided a MD for Piper's Mom who was diagnosed
with consumption, a progressive, terminal illness. Piper
later referred to this as " a bout of consumption."
Piper deserved a better man than Barrett, who should
have taken his kissy, grabby self elsewhere!
October 16, 2017
My introduction to the Taming the Heart series came from book two, and I quickly worked my way through the rest of the series whenever the chance came about. Despite moving forward with the storyline, I never did work my way back to book one. I kept telling myself to, yet my long to-read list meant it remained a long way off. Fortunately, I have amended my error – I’ve now gone back and read book one and confirm it was a solid read.
Each book in the Taming the Heart series tells the story of a different couple, yet they are all linked through the characters. Links exist in the form of friendships, allowing us to follow the characters. In Taming a Duke’s Wild Rose, I was introduced to Piper and Barrett and quickly found myself interested in finding out more. Throughout the rest of the series – Taming a Laird’s Wild Lady, Taming a Rake into a Lord, Taming a Savage Gentleman, and Taming a Rogue Earl – I got to see more and more of them, getting to watch their relationship develop. Still, I had not read the story of how they came together.
You can imagine I entered this story with some pretty big expectations due to this. I’d read the next five books, constantly being shown snippets of their life. I had some pretty high standards for this story, and a part of me feared it wouldn’t live up. It’s not that I doubted Tammy Andresen – having enjoyed the five other books, I knew I would enjoy this one – it’s simply that I had created so many possibilities in my mind.
Fortunately, this one more than delivered.
Taming a Duke’s Reckless Heart was exactly what I hoped for from Piper and Barrett’s story. For anyone who has yet to read the series, this is a wonderful introduction of what to expect; as someone who has already read the rest of the series this was a wonderful dive into the past. It had all I had hoped for – the romance, the drama, and the great characters.
Whilst it is not my favourite book in the series, it’s certainly in my top three. Being slightly longer than some of the later books happen to be, this one digs deep into the drama surrounding Piper and Barrett’s love story. There is plenty to keep us entertained throughout, though, leaving you more than willing to finish this one in a single sitting. From the very start, their story pulls us in, leaving us wanting more, and unwilling to turn away until we know how everything plays out.
A wonderful read, more than worth it for anyone who enjoys historical romance. It’s a series I’d recommend for any such fans, with this book being a wonderful gateway drug into the stories.
Each book in the Taming the Heart series tells the story of a different couple, yet they are all linked through the characters. Links exist in the form of friendships, allowing us to follow the characters. In Taming a Duke’s Wild Rose, I was introduced to Piper and Barrett and quickly found myself interested in finding out more. Throughout the rest of the series – Taming a Laird’s Wild Lady, Taming a Rake into a Lord, Taming a Savage Gentleman, and Taming a Rogue Earl – I got to see more and more of them, getting to watch their relationship develop. Still, I had not read the story of how they came together.
You can imagine I entered this story with some pretty big expectations due to this. I’d read the next five books, constantly being shown snippets of their life. I had some pretty high standards for this story, and a part of me feared it wouldn’t live up. It’s not that I doubted Tammy Andresen – having enjoyed the five other books, I knew I would enjoy this one – it’s simply that I had created so many possibilities in my mind.
Fortunately, this one more than delivered.
Taming a Duke’s Reckless Heart was exactly what I hoped for from Piper and Barrett’s story. For anyone who has yet to read the series, this is a wonderful introduction of what to expect; as someone who has already read the rest of the series this was a wonderful dive into the past. It had all I had hoped for – the romance, the drama, and the great characters.
Whilst it is not my favourite book in the series, it’s certainly in my top three. Being slightly longer than some of the later books happen to be, this one digs deep into the drama surrounding Piper and Barrett’s love story. There is plenty to keep us entertained throughout, though, leaving you more than willing to finish this one in a single sitting. From the very start, their story pulls us in, leaving us wanting more, and unwilling to turn away until we know how everything plays out.
A wonderful read, more than worth it for anyone who enjoys historical romance. It’s a series I’d recommend for any such fans, with this book being a wonderful gateway drug into the stories.
August 2, 2016
ARC REVIEW
A massive shame on me, I forgot to put this in my calendar and forgot to post a review for it and that's bad because this really is a great book. It reminded me of Julie Garwood and Eloisa James. The story is wonderful and I love Tammy Andresen's narrative, the characters were all very enjoyable and likable. It was a really really good read.
Piper Baker and her mother are on their last penny, her mother is ill and desperate enough to marry a man because he can support her. All the while her mother is pushing her to make a good match, not for love but for support. On their way to the dock to board a ship bound for New York they are attacked by thieves, luckily for them Barrett Maddox is on his way to his boat as well and manages to scare off the thieves. Being a gentleman Barrett can not in good conscience let these two women travel alone. He takes them to his ship and transports them safely to their destination. On the way he makes a promise to Piper's mother that he will help her find a suitable match. But the more Piper's mother reminds him that he is suppose to find a match for Piper the more it pushes him toward her.
Piper fell in love with Barrett right way their time together on the ship made her feel special, but Barrett being male is a little bit obtuse. He doesn't realize his feelings for her are as strong as they are until he starts introducing her to eligible bachelors, then he scares them off. Piper is confused because the he says he's helping but then he sabotages his own efforts to marry her off.
Overall, I really loved this book.
A massive shame on me, I forgot to put this in my calendar and forgot to post a review for it and that's bad because this really is a great book. It reminded me of Julie Garwood and Eloisa James. The story is wonderful and I love Tammy Andresen's narrative, the characters were all very enjoyable and likable. It was a really really good read.
Piper Baker and her mother are on their last penny, her mother is ill and desperate enough to marry a man because he can support her. All the while her mother is pushing her to make a good match, not for love but for support. On their way to the dock to board a ship bound for New York they are attacked by thieves, luckily for them Barrett Maddox is on his way to his boat as well and manages to scare off the thieves. Being a gentleman Barrett can not in good conscience let these two women travel alone. He takes them to his ship and transports them safely to their destination. On the way he makes a promise to Piper's mother that he will help her find a suitable match. But the more Piper's mother reminds him that he is suppose to find a match for Piper the more it pushes him toward her.
Piper fell in love with Barrett right way their time together on the ship made her feel special, but Barrett being male is a little bit obtuse. He doesn't realize his feelings for her are as strong as they are until he starts introducing her to eligible bachelors, then he scares them off. Piper is confused because the he says he's helping but then he sabotages his own efforts to marry her off.
Overall, I really loved this book.
June 27, 2016
I can’t help but feel rather indifferent about this novel. To it’s core, it is a sweet, romantic read during one of my fave time periods to indulge in. But the characters kind of got in the way of the plot, their actions, turned me off more than they appealed to me, and good thing it is a stand alone, as I would not be inclined to read more about any of these characters. Taming a Duke’s Reckless Heart is an adequate way to pass the time and perhaps there is an audience who likes broken bird heroines, I prefer my protagonists to be more like the phoenix instead.
More to come...
More to come...
May 28, 2020
2 Stars
Hm, this was the second book I've read by this author. The first being one of her novella's so I didn't have much reference to go on. I didn't hate it, keep that in mind before reading my thoughts as I'm sure that say the opposite. 😂 It was entertaining and different, I will give it that but it was also one book I'd like to throw across the room too.
This book and the author's writing style was definitely unconventional. It was not historically accurate in terms of the language and proprietary used. I let this slide at first thinking it may not have those aspects it still was interesting. Around the 50% mark I began to lose my patience with this style.
I've no idea how old Barrett was but Piper was merely nineteen. So much could be explained about her behavior IMO with just that fact. Sadly this didn't start like a classic romance either. Everything was set up rather quickly and then in a blink both Barrett and Piper are in super lust and on their way to love in a matter of a day or so. That was completely unbelievable to me but was written in a way that I found funny.. at first.
Piper for the most part was a huge annoyance for me the more I read. So Barrett had his reasons for supposedly not being able to marry her. Okay! So naturally Barrett being a dumb man in lust takes every opportunity to touch, kiss, nearly ravish and growl like a jealous dog any chance he gets. And naturally Piper who we're to assume had a modicum of intelligence turns into a stuttering rambling mess whenever in his presence. She may say and think smart things like "Let me go," "You can't or won't marry me," "I won't be your mistress!," And variations of "I don't want to see you anymore." But OF COURSE all grumpy Barrett must do is ignore everything she asks and even begs of him and kiss her and pull her into his arms. And with that Piper the intelligent DISAPPEARS! She melts and swoons and sighs and kisses him back. She claims she can't resist and simply wants to enjoy what time she has with him. And I'm rolling my eyes so hard I get a headache! 🤦
Piper was SILLY! Indecisive and inconsistent! She had all the makings of a decent heroine but she couldn't keep her word. Everytime she begged Barrett to let her go and how unfair he was being I cheered. Good for you, girl! But he barely had to do anything and the hussy would start drooling over him in adoration. Talk about frustrating! She HAD the intelligence to understand what she SHOULD and SHOULDN'T do but she couldn't back it up. Even for her own reputation or her mother. Count in the fact Barrett was extremely overbearing with his affection for a young woman who never kissed a man etcetera? It was a mess. Barrett was basically obsessed and in lust from the jump because shocker! Piper is simply stunning! 🙄 And he pants and chases the poor naive fool until she's all but ruined.
I'm all for a good chase, a growly jealous prone hero, and a Cinderella like HEA but this was a hot mess by half. Give me the trying to find a lady a husband but gets jealous and falls in love himself trope any day and SIGN ME UP! BUT Barrett was just so inappropriate with her and even her uptight Aunt Lizzie who put up a fight about this from the beginning settled in and shrugged like "whatever" when Barrett simply did what he wanted.
And don't get me started on how one of Pipers suitors try to kidnap her then got double crossed by a thug he hired who tried to get under her skirts real fast only for (surprise, surprise!) Barrett to find and save her. Wanna know why that was stupid?! Because in the author's eyes it made sense for Barrett to knock out the bad guy (since bad guy one was already napping) and grab Piper from the carriage. Was she kidnapped and almost raped in a matter of moments? Yes but why bother having a normal reaction, right? Instead we have Piper and her ripped bodice sling herself into Barrett's big possessive arms and begin kissing him all over and making out. So he carries her to his carriage and although he makes out with her he stops her and goes to find her family so they can leave despite her pleading to basically bone her. And with that the kidnapping storyline is buried and mentioned once later and then ohh ho ho she falls for a trap to lure her out and kidnap her again at the end! Come oonnn!
I didn't have a problem with her going from being attacked to seeking solace in intimacy. It happens, but I did hate how the author bulldozed over the fact someone tried to kidnap her and rape her. We don't focus on that and try to understand it. We don't even get a shocked or emotional Piper when she's save (much like at the opening of the book) Instead we get a crazed monkey who climbed Barrett and begged for some dick. Okay maybe it wasn't that crude but you understand, right? The author's priority should've focused on the drama she created but she just brushed it aside for another heated encounter which was ridiculous!
There was just ALOT of silly and inaccuracy and dumb things that happened and that the characters did that bothered me. Yes, I could tell from the beginning this wasn't an average historical and willing to open my mind for some entertainment but I was not expecting this.
Add in Pipers cousin Sybil somehow falling in love and getting engaged to Barrett's friend who's also a rake himself in such a short time in the background of all this as well as Barrett's rude meddlesome mother and his form fling Mrs Fox causing shit and it just turned into a circus.
Last but not least the author wasted too much time on Piper "supposedly" looking for other husband's. It wasn't even a poor lie it was simply a lie. Piper all but whined in her thoughts and never once gave looking for another candidate other than Barrett a shot. That really irritated me. This trope is sooo fun! Or can be but the author ruined it. The whole point is to have the heroine actually give other suitors a true chance, especially in the final moment when she feels like there is little hope for her and the hero. I prefer having a solid second candidate even if he turns out to be a jerk or bad guy in the end. The point is to allow the heroine to face the difficulties of whatever it is she faces with the hero and for the hero to do the same by watching her truly try and move on and such. IMHO the author did little for Piper but having her obsess over Barrett almost the whole book without giving anyone else even the smallest chance. Because you absolutely cannot tell me Stanford counted for anything! Especially with every party or event she attended she wanted to leave almost as soon as she arrived. Only one I think that was blamed on worrying over her mother.
The author just focused on so much she shouldn't have and chose to turn Piper and Barrett into silly lust puppies who nearly ruined her. Add in they're supposed to be in Lurve by halfway through the book and I just shake my head. I didn't really see how love could flourish without much getting to know one another that didn't involve each other's tongue in ones mouth but alas.
Hm, this was the second book I've read by this author. The first being one of her novella's so I didn't have much reference to go on. I didn't hate it, keep that in mind before reading my thoughts as I'm sure that say the opposite. 😂 It was entertaining and different, I will give it that but it was also one book I'd like to throw across the room too.
This book and the author's writing style was definitely unconventional. It was not historically accurate in terms of the language and proprietary used. I let this slide at first thinking it may not have those aspects it still was interesting. Around the 50% mark I began to lose my patience with this style.
I've no idea how old Barrett was but Piper was merely nineteen. So much could be explained about her behavior IMO with just that fact. Sadly this didn't start like a classic romance either. Everything was set up rather quickly and then in a blink both Barrett and Piper are in super lust and on their way to love in a matter of a day or so. That was completely unbelievable to me but was written in a way that I found funny.. at first.
Piper for the most part was a huge annoyance for me the more I read. So Barrett had his reasons for supposedly not being able to marry her. Okay! So naturally Barrett being a dumb man in lust takes every opportunity to touch, kiss, nearly ravish and growl like a jealous dog any chance he gets. And naturally Piper who we're to assume had a modicum of intelligence turns into a stuttering rambling mess whenever in his presence. She may say and think smart things like "Let me go," "You can't or won't marry me," "I won't be your mistress!," And variations of "I don't want to see you anymore." But OF COURSE all grumpy Barrett must do is ignore everything she asks and even begs of him and kiss her and pull her into his arms. And with that Piper the intelligent DISAPPEARS! She melts and swoons and sighs and kisses him back. She claims she can't resist and simply wants to enjoy what time she has with him. And I'm rolling my eyes so hard I get a headache! 🤦
Piper was SILLY! Indecisive and inconsistent! She had all the makings of a decent heroine but she couldn't keep her word. Everytime she begged Barrett to let her go and how unfair he was being I cheered. Good for you, girl! But he barely had to do anything and the hussy would start drooling over him in adoration. Talk about frustrating! She HAD the intelligence to understand what she SHOULD and SHOULDN'T do but she couldn't back it up. Even for her own reputation or her mother. Count in the fact Barrett was extremely overbearing with his affection for a young woman who never kissed a man etcetera? It was a mess. Barrett was basically obsessed and in lust from the jump because shocker! Piper is simply stunning! 🙄 And he pants and chases the poor naive fool until she's all but ruined.
I'm all for a good chase, a growly jealous prone hero, and a Cinderella like HEA but this was a hot mess by half. Give me the trying to find a lady a husband but gets jealous and falls in love himself trope any day and SIGN ME UP! BUT Barrett was just so inappropriate with her and even her uptight Aunt Lizzie who put up a fight about this from the beginning settled in and shrugged like "whatever" when Barrett simply did what he wanted.
And don't get me started on how one of Pipers suitors try to kidnap her then got double crossed by a thug he hired who tried to get under her skirts real fast only for (surprise, surprise!) Barrett to find and save her. Wanna know why that was stupid?! Because in the author's eyes it made sense for Barrett to knock out the bad guy (since bad guy one was already napping) and grab Piper from the carriage. Was she kidnapped and almost raped in a matter of moments? Yes but why bother having a normal reaction, right? Instead we have Piper and her ripped bodice sling herself into Barrett's big possessive arms and begin kissing him all over and making out. So he carries her to his carriage and although he makes out with her he stops her and goes to find her family so they can leave despite her pleading to basically bone her. And with that the kidnapping storyline is buried and mentioned once later and then ohh ho ho she falls for a trap to lure her out and kidnap her again at the end! Come oonnn!
I didn't have a problem with her going from being attacked to seeking solace in intimacy. It happens, but I did hate how the author bulldozed over the fact someone tried to kidnap her and rape her. We don't focus on that and try to understand it. We don't even get a shocked or emotional Piper when she's save (much like at the opening of the book) Instead we get a crazed monkey who climbed Barrett and begged for some dick. Okay maybe it wasn't that crude but you understand, right? The author's priority should've focused on the drama she created but she just brushed it aside for another heated encounter which was ridiculous!
There was just ALOT of silly and inaccuracy and dumb things that happened and that the characters did that bothered me. Yes, I could tell from the beginning this wasn't an average historical and willing to open my mind for some entertainment but I was not expecting this.
Add in Pipers cousin Sybil somehow falling in love and getting engaged to Barrett's friend who's also a rake himself in such a short time in the background of all this as well as Barrett's rude meddlesome mother and his form fling Mrs Fox causing shit and it just turned into a circus.
Last but not least the author wasted too much time on Piper "supposedly" looking for other husband's. It wasn't even a poor lie it was simply a lie. Piper all but whined in her thoughts and never once gave looking for another candidate other than Barrett a shot. That really irritated me. This trope is sooo fun! Or can be but the author ruined it. The whole point is to have the heroine actually give other suitors a true chance, especially in the final moment when she feels like there is little hope for her and the hero. I prefer having a solid second candidate even if he turns out to be a jerk or bad guy in the end. The point is to allow the heroine to face the difficulties of whatever it is she faces with the hero and for the hero to do the same by watching her truly try and move on and such. IMHO the author did little for Piper but having her obsess over Barrett almost the whole book without giving anyone else even the smallest chance. Because you absolutely cannot tell me Stanford counted for anything! Especially with every party or event she attended she wanted to leave almost as soon as she arrived. Only one I think that was blamed on worrying over her mother.
The author just focused on so much she shouldn't have and chose to turn Piper and Barrett into silly lust puppies who nearly ruined her. Add in they're supposed to be in Lurve by halfway through the book and I just shake my head. I didn't really see how love could flourish without much getting to know one another that didn't involve each other's tongue in ones mouth but alas.
May 29, 2016
*** I was provided a ARC in exchange for an honest review***
Taming a Duke’s Reckless Heart is a historical romance centered around a girl named Piper who is looking for a husband. Piper is a beautiful young woman who has many men after her, however, none win her love and despite how much she denies it at first, love is all she is looking for. One night, Piper is attacked and a Duke named Barrett saves her. Over the course of the book, Barrett and Piper grow closer and it is obvious they love each other even though they couldn’t possible be together because of their different stations. Or can they?
Here’s what I liked:
Writing style- The writing was flawless and flowed very nicely together. The writing was perfect for the set time period this book is in. It also incorporated many of the real struggles people faced back then. This is by far my favorite historical romance book I have ever read.
Piper & Barrett- I loved their relationship. Despite it being kind of insta-love, they denied their feelings for each other for most of the book so I did not mind that aspect. I absolutely loved how strong they were for each other and how they would risk everything to be together.
Ending- The book ended with the incorporation of the book’s title which I liked very much.
Barrett’s mother- Barrett’s mother was very strict and mean. She made it clear that she didn’t like Piper from the start because of her station. However, the mother’s character was very true to that time period and we got to see her character grow which was great to see.
What I didn’t like as much:
Sybil- Sybil is Piper’s cousin. Now, I have absolutely nothing against Sybil and I rather liked her character. However, we didn’t see much of her in this book and I wish we saw more of her. She is a secondary character that was mentioned a lot, but never really did anything. Because of that, I can’t say she was a great addition to the story.
Overall this is a 5 star read. It is my favorite historical romance book and one of my favorite books I have read this year. It is well-written, intriguing, and a must-read! I look forward to reading more from Tammy Andresen. This novel was truly amazing and I couldn’t put it down! Well done!
Taming a Duke’s Reckless Heart is a historical romance centered around a girl named Piper who is looking for a husband. Piper is a beautiful young woman who has many men after her, however, none win her love and despite how much she denies it at first, love is all she is looking for. One night, Piper is attacked and a Duke named Barrett saves her. Over the course of the book, Barrett and Piper grow closer and it is obvious they love each other even though they couldn’t possible be together because of their different stations. Or can they?
Here’s what I liked:
Writing style- The writing was flawless and flowed very nicely together. The writing was perfect for the set time period this book is in. It also incorporated many of the real struggles people faced back then. This is by far my favorite historical romance book I have ever read.
Piper & Barrett- I loved their relationship. Despite it being kind of insta-love, they denied their feelings for each other for most of the book so I did not mind that aspect. I absolutely loved how strong they were for each other and how they would risk everything to be together.
Ending- The book ended with the incorporation of the book’s title which I liked very much.
Barrett’s mother- Barrett’s mother was very strict and mean. She made it clear that she didn’t like Piper from the start because of her station. However, the mother’s character was very true to that time period and we got to see her character grow which was great to see.
What I didn’t like as much:
Sybil- Sybil is Piper’s cousin. Now, I have absolutely nothing against Sybil and I rather liked her character. However, we didn’t see much of her in this book and I wish we saw more of her. She is a secondary character that was mentioned a lot, but never really did anything. Because of that, I can’t say she was a great addition to the story.
Overall this is a 5 star read. It is my favorite historical romance book and one of my favorite books I have read this year. It is well-written, intriguing, and a must-read! I look forward to reading more from Tammy Andresen. This novel was truly amazing and I couldn’t put it down! Well done!
May 20, 2016
After crossing the Atlantic and landing in New York, Piper Baker’s mother is desperately ill with Consumption. Having made the acquaintance of Barrett Maddox, the Duke of Manchester, Piper’s mother enlists his help in finding Piper a marriage match. The only problem, Barrett has become enraptured with Piper and growls whenever any other man comes close. Barret is promised to a more title-worthy woman back in England and plans to fulfill that promise when he is finally ready to marry, even though he has fallen in love with Piper.
Piper has fallen in love with Barrett, but knows that she is not a suitable match for him. She does her best to find a match in New York society, but none of them can quite capture her heart when she has already given it away. To give Piper more time to find a suitable match she can live with, Barrett becomes her benefactor/guardian, and then her protector when she becomes the object of an obsessed stalker.
Lots of chaos and excitement ensues with danger, love and honor all in the mix. This is a great story that you won’t want to put down until the end. The characters are well-developed and the dialogue is great. Well done!
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Piper has fallen in love with Barrett, but knows that she is not a suitable match for him. She does her best to find a match in New York society, but none of them can quite capture her heart when she has already given it away. To give Piper more time to find a suitable match she can live with, Barrett becomes her benefactor/guardian, and then her protector when she becomes the object of an obsessed stalker.
Lots of chaos and excitement ensues with danger, love and honor all in the mix. This is a great story that you won’t want to put down until the end. The characters are well-developed and the dialogue is great. Well done!
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
July 4, 2016
I was given a free ebook in exchange for an honest review. Normally this is not the genre I read but I decided to keep an open mind and give it a go.
It is the 1800's, Piper is broke and single and her mother is trying to marry her off so she will always be taken care of. The Duke saves her from an unsavory event and they become star crossed lovers, trying to avoid each other while the attraction grows stronger. That's all I will say to avoid spoiling the plot for those that are interested.
I found this to be a quick and easy beach read. The writing was good, it kept my interest and felt like a PG rated version of Fifty Shades of Grey. I would not call it a historical romance novel since there wasn't much history involved, but it definitely qualified as a romance novel.
It is the 1800's, Piper is broke and single and her mother is trying to marry her off so she will always be taken care of. The Duke saves her from an unsavory event and they become star crossed lovers, trying to avoid each other while the attraction grows stronger. That's all I will say to avoid spoiling the plot for those that are interested.
I found this to be a quick and easy beach read. The writing was good, it kept my interest and felt like a PG rated version of Fifty Shades of Grey. I would not call it a historical romance novel since there wasn't much history involved, but it definitely qualified as a romance novel.
May 24, 2016
** ARC provided in exchange for an honest review. **
Captivating, lovely, heart-wrenching, and utterly romantic. The magnetic and undeniable attraction balanced nicely with the ethical codes and restrictions of being unavailable due to familial duties. I felt the heartbreak and yearning from both characters so strongly I had to remind myself these were fictional beings feelings. And isn't that a sign of a good book? To delve so deeply into the story that you feel as if you are part of the action? A breath of fresh air. Sublime.
Captivating, lovely, heart-wrenching, and utterly romantic. The magnetic and undeniable attraction balanced nicely with the ethical codes and restrictions of being unavailable due to familial duties. I felt the heartbreak and yearning from both characters so strongly I had to remind myself these were fictional beings feelings. And isn't that a sign of a good book? To delve so deeply into the story that you feel as if you are part of the action? A breath of fresh air. Sublime.
May 30, 2016
Taming A Duke's Reckless Heart is my first book by Tammy Andresen. This book sucked me in at page one and didn't turn me lose until the end. Ms Andresen has provided a great story with fantastic, well developed characters. There is plenty of drama, action, humor and sizzle to round things out. I enjoyed Taming A Duke's Reckless Heart and would happily read more from Tammy Andresen in the future. Taming A Duke's Reckless Heart is a complete book, not a cliff-hanger.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
July 22, 2019
The more I read this author, the more I like. I was surprised by how much I enjoyed this story. A lovely romantic read with, of course, a HEA. I didn't think I would like it so much, being in America, because I do love my British among the Ton. However, I was more than happy reading this. I did actually love it! 5☆
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January 27, 2018💝 FREE on Amazon today (1/27/2018)! 💝
July 30, 2019
Taming A Duke’s Reckless Heart is book one in the Taming The Heart series by Tammy Andresen. I enjoyed this book. I thought it was a very creative and unique idea to have America be the setting for this romance with a British Duke. I liked the character of Piper. She is honest and loving to her mother. I also thought the Duke Barrett Maddox was an unusual hero. I liked how he flaunted convention and demanded his own way. The story has a few twists and turns that kept me turning the pages. Looking forward to the next book in this series.
October 4, 2020
4.5 stars. Piper and Barret. Three romances in one. Piper and Barret. Sybil and Ethan. Piper's mom (Mrs. Baker) and Dr. Thompson.
Book 5 of the boxed set named A Duke's Desire: Nine Full Length Novels.
Also is in the boxed set (but I do not own of) Taming the Duke's Heart: Taming a Duke's Heart Books 1-3 (Taming the Heart Series) as book 1.
I own this in this box set collection and as a separate kindle book.
Book 5 of the boxed set named A Duke's Desire: Nine Full Length Novels.
Also is in the boxed set (but I do not own of) Taming the Duke's Heart: Taming a Duke's Heart Books 1-3 (Taming the Heart Series) as book 1.
I own this in this box set collection and as a separate kindle book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 28, 2022
Fairly quick read with a moderately developed plot twist. Back and forth about how Barrett couldn’t marry Piper was tiring.
October 10, 2017
Another heartfelt story by Tammy Andresen that pulls you in from page one. Piper Baker and her mother are on the way to board a ship to take them to America from London. Her mother is ill and desperate to find a husband for Piper so she will not be left alone if something happens to her. Unfortunately they are set upon by brigands before they make it to the ship, but luckily, they are saved by Barrett Maddox, Duke of Manchester. He takes them into his care and delivers them to their relatives in America, where he also has his shipping business. Barrett makes a promise to Piper's mother to take care of Piper and watch over her because she is so ill. What was he thinking? He is immediately mesmerized by Piper and only wants her for himself, but due to his title must marry a suitable partner already chosen by his parents. Thus begins the story of a Duke, who fights his feelings but does not have much success, and a girl who has a hard time looking for a husband when her feelings are otherwise engaged. There is humor, mystery and a little of everything in this story and I absolutely loved it!
June 6, 2016
This was such a sweet and yet somewhat steamy read! And I say steamy because of the fact that considering this is a Victorian Historical Romance, the leading male character was very much against social norms and frankly he didn't seem to care about them or what others thought of him. He waltzed in without waiting to be announced, went into a woman's bedroom alone, kissed her like the world was burning, and basically ran off every suitor he could of the one woman he wanted so badly but had decided that he couldn't have. That is Barrett. And I love his character because of it. He's a duke and he does what he wants. As for the leading female character, she is refined and graceful, but has had enough of society as she tries desperately to find a husband as she pines for Barrett. The two of them have such a great connection in the book, but the push and pull between them about doing what is expected of them and following their hearts keeps it tense throughout the book. Great read!!
November 3, 2017
This series is very much a set of standalone novels, with a bit of character crossover here and there. I read them out of order, beginning with #3. I'm glad I did, because I enjoyed most of the later ones; I finally got to go back and read the first two to catch up, and I didn't care for this one much.
My main problem was with the "hero", Barrett. I just cannot like or respect a character who behaves the way he does toward the heroine. He lies to her mother about having a chaperone while talking to her alone; he blatantly takes advantage of her after telling her he wouldn't; he barges into her aunt's house repeatedly and walks right into her bedroom. And let's not forget what he does with her while they are supposed to be just sitting by her sick mother's bedside...can you say ew?
I recommend skipping this one and reading a different book in the series.
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
My main problem was with the "hero", Barrett. I just cannot like or respect a character who behaves the way he does toward the heroine. He lies to her mother about having a chaperone while talking to her alone; he blatantly takes advantage of her after telling her he wouldn't; he barges into her aunt's house repeatedly and walks right into her bedroom. And let's not forget what he does with her while they are supposed to be just sitting by her sick mother's bedside...can you say ew?
I recommend skipping this one and reading a different book in the series.
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
June 24, 2016
This is a wonderful book! Piper is beautiful, resourceful and in need of protecting herself and her very ill mother.
Barrett has promised to marry a life long friend if he has not found another by his 30th birthday, which is rapidly approaching.
He was in the right place and the right time to save Piper and her mother from certain disaster. In the process, he lost his heart to the spirited Piper.
Their story is charming. Barrett's family obligations is preventing him from asking for Piper's hand in marriage. His heart is saying otherwise.
This book has mystery, intrigue, romance, bad guys and good guys. It all made for a great read.
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. I am so glad that I did. I can't wait to read other books from Tammy Andresen!
Barrett has promised to marry a life long friend if he has not found another by his 30th birthday, which is rapidly approaching.
He was in the right place and the right time to save Piper and her mother from certain disaster. In the process, he lost his heart to the spirited Piper.
Their story is charming. Barrett's family obligations is preventing him from asking for Piper's hand in marriage. His heart is saying otherwise.
This book has mystery, intrigue, romance, bad guys and good guys. It all made for a great read.
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. I am so glad that I did. I can't wait to read other books from Tammy Andresen!
June 20, 2016
I was provided an ARC in exchange of a honest review... Piper without a father and her mother ill without money to help her with her sickness. Her mother is looking for her daughter to get a husband before something happens to her. An accident in her way to Boston Massachusetts , she met Mr. Maddox. Will Mr.Maddox save their life or will destroy her ?.. I had a hate and love relationship with Mr Maddox thru the story. I learned how to love him with his sweet heart, caring and loving lover he is. He will do what is impossible to be possible to complete what he wants.. If you want fall in love with a Duke within a few pages you need to read "Tamming a Duke's heart by Tammy Andresen
Thanks for the ARC you did an amazing job with this story
Thanks for the ARC you did an amazing job with this story
June 5, 2016
Everything must come to an end.
...My first read by this author and based on her writing will not be the last. I enjoy a read when the author shows her heart through the characters......even more so when the author throws in some intrigue to keep things interesting.
I definitely enjoyed the journey of the two outcasts who somehow find each other and make a relationship work. The romance telling was graceful and appealing in it’s sensuality, but also quite hot. It was easy to get caught up in this authors storytelling and the way she got me involved in her story
I thoroughly enjoyed it. Well done!!!
July 15, 2017
I am quite certain it is ridiculously historically inaccurate. Somewhat annoying in that. Probably enjoyable if you dont care about that and just want whirlwind relationship and fairy tale ending. 2.5 star
November 16, 2020
This was a really good book!
Piper Baker and her mother are having a rough time of it. Her father has passed and there wasn't enough money to secure their future. Her mother is considering marrying a man that is an inconsiderate buffoon, while Piper is considering marrying someone, any one, a gentleman, who has enough money to take care of her and her mother! This is the idea that's in her head, but it hasn't signed on in her heart yet! She has lots of suitors and many worthwhile choices, but she is bored to tears with men falling at her feet!
Enter the Duke of Manchester, Barrett Maddox! He is the son of her mother's close childhood friend (back in England) and the man who saves her and her mother from being robbed and molested on the docks. He agrees to broker a match for her in the rich New York society, and should anything happen to her sickly mother -- be her guardian!
This is an interesting situation for a man who changes woman like he changes his tie.... just saying... wants no involvements and is already very attracted and having a difficult time keeping his hands and lips to himself!
The Duke has a prearranged marriage of convenience, for land and property, which was arranged by his father and nothing is to detour those plans, but Piper is definitely a road block to those plans. Once he decides that he wants her to be his and his wife; he must go to England to tell his family; overbearing mother, younger brother, Tom, the lady in question and her father.
Many plots are being hatched by different players; some trying to get a wife, some trying to get money, some trying to exert and exact their will! Piper is in the middle of all of this while her mother is trying to recover from consumption!
Fortunately, the Duke has taken care of her mother's healthcare, and seen to it that she is prepared for the New York season; he even has a hand in finding her cousin a suitable husband, his business partner! Their journey is a lot more complicated and involves suitors who have agendas or are self-absorbed and look to have a beauty on their arm....
Through her courage, spunk and quality of character, she proves that not only is she the woman that he wants, but deserves. She is willing to protect him and his interests, just as much as he wants to protect and take care of her.
A very well written, moving and stirring book!
Piper Baker and her mother are having a rough time of it. Her father has passed and there wasn't enough money to secure their future. Her mother is considering marrying a man that is an inconsiderate buffoon, while Piper is considering marrying someone, any one, a gentleman, who has enough money to take care of her and her mother! This is the idea that's in her head, but it hasn't signed on in her heart yet! She has lots of suitors and many worthwhile choices, but she is bored to tears with men falling at her feet!
Enter the Duke of Manchester, Barrett Maddox! He is the son of her mother's close childhood friend (back in England) and the man who saves her and her mother from being robbed and molested on the docks. He agrees to broker a match for her in the rich New York society, and should anything happen to her sickly mother -- be her guardian!
This is an interesting situation for a man who changes woman like he changes his tie.... just saying... wants no involvements and is already very attracted and having a difficult time keeping his hands and lips to himself!
The Duke has a prearranged marriage of convenience, for land and property, which was arranged by his father and nothing is to detour those plans, but Piper is definitely a road block to those plans. Once he decides that he wants her to be his and his wife; he must go to England to tell his family; overbearing mother, younger brother, Tom, the lady in question and her father.
Many plots are being hatched by different players; some trying to get a wife, some trying to get money, some trying to exert and exact their will! Piper is in the middle of all of this while her mother is trying to recover from consumption!
Fortunately, the Duke has taken care of her mother's healthcare, and seen to it that she is prepared for the New York season; he even has a hand in finding her cousin a suitable husband, his business partner! Their journey is a lot more complicated and involves suitors who have agendas or are self-absorbed and look to have a beauty on their arm....
Through her courage, spunk and quality of character, she proves that not only is she the woman that he wants, but deserves. She is willing to protect him and his interests, just as much as he wants to protect and take care of her.
A very well written, moving and stirring book!
April 1, 2018
This is a ridiculous concept. A beautiful half~English young woman brought up as a lady with all the necessary accomplishments should not have a problem getting decent gainful employment in the 'Land of the Free and the Home of the Brave,' if she really desires it. And Piper Baker with her attributes and accomplishments have much to recommend her plus she is no milk~and~water English miss as she is American with much gumption. How could Piper be plucky and at the same time helpless in America where women have more freedom (even in 1854) than in 'merry old England'? The author should not have made Piper into an independent and intelligent woman and give her no option but marriage to a rich man. But then this story is not about Piper standing alone but of an attachment to her rescuer (the Duke, who is promised to Another back in England) and the sexual tension between them. I struggled through this one and though it had its moments, in the end, all I can say with a lot of reservations is ~ it was OK.
March 16, 2018
Piper Baker’s situation is desperate with her mother gravely ill from consumption. Time and money dwindle to naught, and marriage is Piper’s lone option. Although potential suitors circle her skirts, none but Barrett Maddox, Duke of Manchester, captures her heart, after he saves her from a band of thieves. For wealthy, titled bachelor Barrett Maddox, the first rule in life is to avoid marriageable virgins, at all costs, and he has been successful thus far. That is, until he rescues the delectable, auburn-haired Piper Baker.
I really enjoyed this book, which I first read in an anthology. However at times I wanted to bang Barrett & Pipers’ heads together as it was so obvious from the start how they felt about each other & it took a near disaster for them to realise. The characters were well developed & the pace of the story is very good
I really enjoyed this book, which I first read in an anthology. However at times I wanted to bang Barrett & Pipers’ heads together as it was so obvious from the start how they felt about each other & it took a near disaster for them to realise. The characters were well developed & the pace of the story is very good
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