The Legend of the Betrayed Duchess

by Hanna Hamilton

After losing her whole family in a fire accident, Lucy Brighton is taken as a ward in the Grayson estate, home of the Duke of Sutherland. Her stay with her new family quickly turns into a nightmare, with writing becoming her only escape and George, the Duke’s son, being her only friend.

Growing up developing a deep love for the arts instead of the family business, as well as a secret infatuation for Lucy, George Grayson suffers his parent’s continuous disapproval.

Along with the sudden arrival of a mysterious man, claiming to be Lucy’s lost brother, a series of unexpected events start to take place, that bring chaos into the Grayson home, having everyone’s fates hanging by a thread.

*The Legend of the Betrayed Duchess is a historical Regency romance of 80,000 words (around 400 pages). No cheating, no cliffhangers, and a sweet happily ever after.

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Genres: Historical Romance, Historical, Historical Fiction, Regency

385 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 25, 2018

About the author

Hanna Hamilton has been fascinated with the Regency era ever since she was a young teen, first discovering historical romance novels by famous authors such as Jane Austen and Lisa Kleypas. She believes that love was just so much more magical back then, more like a fairy tale. She always daydreamed about finding love herself that way, but since that is impossible in the twenty-first century, she decided to write about it instead!

Born in Texas, Hanna Hamilton obtained a degree in Creative Writing and has worked as a literature teacher before becoming a novelist. When she isn’t writing, Hanna likes to explore the countryside with her husband and two children, gaining inspiration from the natural world around her.

So, come on a journey into love, confusion, and redemption all within the Regency era. Hanna hopes that you will enjoy immersing yourself into her novels and that you too will find a love for old-fashioned romance, just as she has. 


Facebook page: http://facebook.com/hannahamiltonauthor

Reviews

[Margaret Taylor · Rating 1 out of 5]

Boring

Read til about just over 50% and confirm that this is the most boring book ever. They were either eating a meal, getting dressed and endless talking about nothing. The plot was so thin it was transparent. The author needs to re-write it. Thank goodness it was free cos if I'd have paid for it I would have requested a refund.

[Michele · Rating 5 out of 5]

You will surely enjoy this story about a young orphan girl, Lucy, who was taken in by a Duke after her parents and siblings perished in a fire. Of course the duchess didn't want her there and made a servant of sorts out of her! But she and the son of the manor became very close friends. Both realized that their friendship could go no further because of the difference of their stations in life. This kind of reminded me of the Cinderella story--a horrid stepmother with three terrible daughters all of whom she was trying desperately to marry off--all except one of the daughters who also befriended Lucy.

Then the Duke dies--one of Lucy's brothers comes looking for her--and thus begins the happily ever after. Of course what the now Dowager Duchess does to get two of her daughters married will make you wonder---

Lots happens in-between so be sure to read this one-you will be glad you did!

[Rosemary K · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lucy Brighton lost her family in a deadly fire. Now she's left an orphan. The Duke of Sutherland takes her in. She grows up amid wealth and luxury, but she is an unpaid servant. I was sorry that she was treated so by the Lady of the manor. Thank goodness. She has a good friend in George, the Duke's son. They are close and grow even closer as they become adults. Age has matured them and deepen their feelings, but their different status in Society prevents their union. I loved this romance. They respect and care for each other. They're willing to sacrifice so that other can achieve their dream. Hanna Hamilton has written a sweet story that made me feel good. Her characters are easy to care for and connect with. I liked their sharp intelligent dialogue. The plot is well done and contains some surprises that complicate the HEA. I was caught up in this story and couldn't stop reading.

[Vonntanice Dent · Rating 3 out of 5]

Long and uneventful

A story where two people were attracted to each other, but were determined to second guess everything. Even the man was depicted in a weak way.

[Barbara · Rating 4 out of 5]

A well-written Historical Regency Romance book that I enjoyed reading, in this book love conquers over everything bad.

[Victoria - txreadingnook · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was given an ARC copy for an honest review of The Legend of the Betrayed Duchess . Hannah knows how to start a story and slowly pull the reader into a fascination with the characters . Lucy parents are farmers and a fire happens at their home and it leaves Lucy crying and an older man finds her. He decides to take her to the Grayson estate to see the duke . Her life there is not easy but she forms a special friendship with George the Duke and Duchess's son .Lucy encourages him to paint with colored paints which is forbidden in the beginning of the book but his parents change their minds . Because of this change in their mind set he starts painting portraits . George upsets his mother when he tells her he will not be going to law school and will be going to London to show his paintings . He asked Lucy to a company him as a helper but that is further from the truth . Lucy wants to talk to someone about publishing her book while in London .The sell of her book could be her ticket to freedom . Lucy is smart and beautiful and Duchess is upset about this through out the book . She makes life difficult for Lucy but she needs Lucy so she keeps her . Duchess keeps Lucy from balls and teas because she thinks the gentleman callers will like her over her daughters . So every trick in the book is played to keep that from happening . Lucy's brother was not killed in the he fire and he shows up a the Grayson estate and is now considered a gentlemen but the Duchess is not buying it . Tragedy strikes again when there is a death and this puts everyone at Grayson estate in mourning . A dirty secret surfaces and George who is over Grayson estate now must make a tough decision that could tear him from the only women he has ever loved . . Will Lucy get a happy ending and marry the man she loves and get her book published ? So many twist and turns and that make the book flow perfectly . This book has all the emotions that make a great book . One minute I was feeling sad , laughing , and I was down right frustrated with some of the characters . The book had me wanting to stay up late and keep reading . I give the book 5 stars because I really enjoyed the book .

[Dorothy Jensik · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lovely story

Thank you, Hanna, for Lucy and George's tender tale. You wrapped it up nicely. I look forward to more of your writing.

[George · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Legend of the Betrayed Duchess, by Hanna Hamilton.
Hanna writes good books, and I particularly enjoyed this one with its extended epilogue. Lucy Brighton, the orphaned child whose whole family died in a disastrous fire when she was just a young girl, is taken in by the Duke of Sutherland and the Grayson family to be raised as a ward.

But life is tough for the growing Lucy. Never quite a member of the family, and never quite an employee of the estate, she is in limbo between acceptance and rejection that makes it almost impossible for her to fit in. She is well educated by the family, but the Duchess of Sutherland, Judith, uses her as a personal servant without any remuneration at all, and treats her as her personal fief.

As she ages, Lucy and George, the son of the Duke, who wants to become an artist, not a sheep farmer, form a lasting attachment. It is an attachment that will eventually grow into a love match, but not without major complications.

Standing in her way are three rather unlovely sisters, daughters of the Duke, for whom Judith is desperately trying to find husbands. Lucy's beauty becomes an impediment to that as far as the duchess is concerned.

The marriage antics fill a great deal of the book, but the machinations never become boring, and as in many marriages, work out with some real surprises along the way.

This novel gives a really great portrait of Regency rural life, and the social mores of the time. Suffice it to say that though moderns have their own problems forming loving and sustainable relationships, things were much more difficult in a time of arranged marriages that were often based on power and fortune rather than on love and caring.

There is an extended epilogue to this book in which Hanna rights the wrongs of the Grayson family, and leaves the reader feeling satisfied that things have worked out the way they should have. Hanna writes good books!

[Kelly Tyree · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Legend of the Betrayed Duchess reminded me of Cinderella. We have Lucy Brighton whose family was killed when she was just a young girl. The Duke and his family take Lucy in but the Duchess does not view Lucy the same way she views her two daughters and her son. She makes Lucy live with the servants and treats her like one. Her daughter do as well, but Lucy forms a friendship with George, the son of the Duke and Duchess. As time progresses that friendship evolves. George has turned into a handsome man and Lucy's beauty is unmatched. George has deep feelings for Lucy but because of her station cannot marry her as he wishes. When Lucy's lost brother returns, Lucy's station is elevated. She gets to enjoy her writing and can finally sleep outside of the servant's quarters. But when people are revealed for who they really are, can Lucy keep her elevated station or will she find herself serving the family again and will George act on his deep feelings for Lucy?

I enjoyed this book a great deal. I really liked (and disliked) some of the characters. Lucy and George's story was so romantic. How he always took up for Lucy and made sure she felt valued. I loved the ending as well.

[Dawn Herrera · Rating 5 out of 5]

 The Legend of the Betrayed Duchess was a great book by Hanna Hamilton, this is a story with some tragedy, a bit of drama and growing friendships with some love. The characters are absolutely wonderful, two young children from different up brings and social standings become friends after a heartbreaking event. Loved how we get to watch these two grow into good adults. She lost her family and comes to live in the Duke and Duchesses home, and becoming friends with their son. He is the son of a Duke and has dreams of becoming an artist but this is against his parents wishes. These two have some great chemistry but they know nothing will come of it, they are not suited according to their standing and the Duke and Duchess. I absolutely love a historical romance with a great storyline and this is just another great book from a wonderful author. I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book book.

[Kaye · Rating 5 out of 5]

ONE ENJOYABLE ADVENTURE!!!
Enthralling treat! Chaos and mayhem set the stage for this spinning treat. A tumultuous wild ride with a bounty of unexpected misfortune and surprising incidents that blasts all of your emotions into play perfectly. One compelling storyline and gripping plot jolts this baby together smoothly piece by piece. The drama, intrigue and suspense make for one incredible experience. Twists and turns, ups and downs, along with a few bumps and bruises bring this baby to life beautifully. One heart pounding, pulse racing, page flipping delight that hooks you from the start and reels you in for the duration. The characters personalities are original, intriguing and strong. Solid individuals who balance out and play off one another beautifully. The scenes are colorfully described to give you a full understanding and realism that flows smoothly from each scenario without a glitch. Remarkable job Hanna, thanks for sharing this incredible little jewel with us.

[Candy Briggs · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a good book, the feelings that Lucy and George have for each other is exciting. The title does not really fit the story Neither the duchess or Lucy are betrayed. Then there is Lucy who was taken into their home when a fire killed the rest of her family. There are three sisters and one son in the Duke's family. Six years old, alone and a tenant's daughter, she really does not know what her status was, servant or family. George would be a duke someday, he cared so much for Lucy, his family, the estate and his painting. The duchess would not accept Lucy except as a maid, Ann and Charlotte felt pretty much the same way. The rest of the characters were loving, kind and gentle. I loved when George and Lucy became friends and confided everything in each other.
I received this ARC free and voluntarily reviewed it.

[Laila Viking · Rating 5 out of 5]

A historical romance written with heart and passion. It is showing in the story that the author really cares for her stories. The characters are likeable and they are all well described. I like the different approach each time. They are all unique.
This story has chemistry and passion between the main characters that is over the top. The story flows nicely and the twists makes it worth the read.
Mystery, passion, emotions, twists, family issues, pain and a lot more is what you have in this story. The heroin has not had the best childhood and friends is not those she has the most of. Her best friend is also the one she falls in love with but he is kind of offlimit.
A sweet and lovely romance that is filled with heart and passion.
Really enjoyable read.

[Elizabeth Connor · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an ARC of this book from the author. I enjoy Hanna Hamilton’s style of storytelling, and I enjoyed this book. Strangely, I could not figure out the meaning of the title, even once I had read the book in its entirety. The story is engaging and the characters are relatable and likable, mostly. There were some quick turnabouts in character actions/personalities that were a bit abrupt and I’d have preferred more time was devoted to developing that. On the other hand, I would be interested in reading a sequel focused on Ann. That would give the author the opportunity to further explore the dramatic change in her. Although this is not my favorite book from this author, I loved the characters of George and Lucy. It’s an enjoyable read.

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an engrossing and entertaining story. The storylines are interesting and the characters are intriguing. George is charming and likable, but weak while his father is alive. Lucy is sweet, giving, naive and tough. The Grayson women are condescending and spoiled, except for Betsy. That causes unending drama with not just the family, but with everyone they come in contact with. And the twists that come along are sometimes shocking, things you would never expect. Poor Lucy really got the worst from life, George didn't get much better. It's a book that should be added to your TBR list.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. This is my honest and voluntary opinion of it.

[Sandy Digger · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another lovely story by Ms Hamilton. The story starts with a tenant family who are sleeping when a fire breaks out. Lucy, the daughter is already outside as it was too hot for her to sleep. In moments her house and family are gone, so great is the fire. Lucy is found by a neighbor and taken to the house of the duke, whose tenants had lived in the home. Lucy is taken in by the duke and his family and the tale goes on through her life and view of what takes place. She has become fast friends with son and heir, George. The story continues on with some rather interesting twists that lead to a rather surprising ending. The author includes an extended ending for which I applaud her as I hate wondering how the character’s lives progressed.

[Sahar's Honest Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lucy and the Duke

This is a story about a child whose family was killed in a fire. She was taken to the duke's house and raised there. Her role in the household was not clear. She was treated as a servant by the duchess and two of the daughters, but she was treated as family by the son and one of the daughters. George and Lucy love one another, but as a future duke, it was not acceptable for George to marry the daughter of a tenant farmer. To find out what happens, you will want to read the story. I did not think the title went well with the story, and I thought it was a bit too long. Towards the end, there was a twist that lead you to want to know more about Lucy's mysterious brother.

[Margaret Watkins · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was a little confused by the outcome of this book as it did not match the title nor the description. Nevertheless it is a gentle Victorian romance with a good mix of characters. The author’s writing style is easy to read although I did find the plot moved along at very slowly at times. Lucy is a sweet character and despite her early trauma, she is a well rounded, balanced person. George has an artist’s soul and although he is distracted by the offerings on the marriage mart, he keeps coming back to Lucy, his best friend and confidant. The rest of the Grayson household are under the manipulative machinations of their mother, but ultimately they all eventually find their place. This is a clean romance and can be read by most age groups.

[Joanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked this story as it reminded me a bit of Cinderella. The heroine Lucy, was lovely, smart, hardworking, compassionate and always helpful to all. The hero, George, was handsome, heartfelt, compassionate and loved his family. There was even the ‘evil’ characters similar to the stepmother and sisters in the characters of the Duchess and Ann and Charlotte. Betsy and Isabel were a delight. I enjoyed the twists and turns of this story. I loved the ending. I however, did not think the title was the most appropriate for this lovely story. Who was the betrayed duchess.? Overall, I would recommend this book and will gladly read this author again.

[Annette Drewett · Rating 5 out of 5]

Endearing Regency Romance with a difference. Most romance novels begin when the heroine is an adult, this wonderful book begins when she is just six years old and suffers a life altering tragedy. I loved the storyline and enjoyed following George and Lucy’s friendship as it grew stronger. The story showcases the society restrictions of Regency England and how these characters make the decision to live life the way they want instead of what others expect of them. I loved the book and look forward to reading more from this author.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.

[Victoria · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm currently ill at the moment and this has been a truly lovely book to read. It takes you on a journey through the lives of Lucy and George, you get to see them grow up and deal with family and expectations on who they should be and what they should do.

The pace may have been slow for some reviewers but for me feeling as I do, it worked really well. There was no in your face action and quickly changing plot; it was a gentle story in the lives of two kind and caring people. It held my interest and made me forget I was ill so made me a very happy reader.

I am voluntarily leaving this honest review after receiving an ARC.

[Vicki Johnson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lucy loses her entire family to a fire in their home when she was 6 years old. She was taken to the Grayson estate and raised there - unfortunately she was treated somewhere between a daughter and a maid. However, the duke's son, George, has taken a shine to Lucy and they become very close friends. This story is full of great characters and a very intriguing plot line that makes it easy to keep turning the pages. A very enjoyable book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. This is my voluntary, honest and completely personal review.
VICKI FROM WYOMING

[Cyndi · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an ARC of this book for an honest review .

This book , I found was good , but a bit slow for my liking .
I've enjoyed other books written by Ms.Hamilton, but I couldn't get my self into this story like I've done with others . ( maybe the rain looming on the horizon these last few days😕).
Do not disregard this story as it may appeal to you on some level . It is a standalone so ,if you've not read any of Hanna's books this would be a good for a try ...

[Aud · Rating 4 out of 5]

"The Legend of the Betrayed Duchess" by Hanna Hamilton
I just finished reading my copy of this book, which was a gift from the author. A sweet romance with lots of suspense around every corner, so to speak. I really enjoyed reading this story. Everything I want to say about what I liked about this story... I fear just might spoil the story for you. So, if you like sweet romance with lots of diverse impediments to a Happily Ever After... you are sure to enjoy this story as much as I did.

[Pamela Pond · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great Read!!

Hanna Hamilton has written a wonderful book. This book follows one families struggle through life. The Grayson's have many trials to face that are found in many families.
Jealousies between sisters, the death of a loved one, and fear of being alone are just some of the trials they must face. This book has many twists that are surprising and holds the readers attention from start to finish. I cannot wait to read the next book.

[Jill · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sweet regency-era love story

An excellent regency-era novel by Hanna Hamilton! Beautifully written with a sweet love story, this book has just enough mystery to keep it interesting without being predictable. Characters are well-defined and believable. Ms. Hamilton finishes the book with an extended epilogue, giving the reader a glimpse into the future of the characters while still wrapping up the story without any loose ends.

[Susan Stewart · Rating 2 out of 5]

This is the first, and probably last, book I will read from Hanna Hamilton. First of all, there are so many typos of all kinds that it was distracting and frustrating. And second, I don't like books that offer up a false premise. There is no "Legend of the Betrayed Duchess." The duchess wasn't even betrayed. With that title, I would expect at least a little legend - true or not. I can't recommend this novel.

[Louie Halfacre · Rating 4 out of 5]

authentic

A very good read which I would recommend to other readers. Also, I would like to comment on some small items which concern me about a book. I don’t believe a Duke would involve himself in anything resembling physical work other than supervising his Stewart or Manager. Any son of a Duke would be addressed as Lord and any daughter of a Duke would forever be addressed as Lady whoever she married.

[Charline Bonham · Rating 4 out of 5]

When a little girl is left all alone after her home and family are destroyed by fire, the owner of the property is quilted into taking her in. Although treated as a servant, she does have a home and is befriended by their son. The sisters are jealous. Life is not always smooth but he proves her worth.

[Sharon · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. It is a clean, sweet and wholesome book. The author's writing is easy to follow and it's like watching a movie unfold in your head as you are reading the book. I look forward to more books by this author. I want to thank the author for giving me a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.