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A Damsel for the Daring Duke

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Introducing the "A Damsel for the Daring Duke" Novel - Discover NOW The New Regency Romance Book by Bridget Barton!


Lovely - Romantic - Exciting!


When James Harrington, heir to the Duchy of Sandford, goes to see an old friend in the east of the county, it is to do no more than escape his father's constant interference in his life. The old Duke is determined that his son marry soon and marry a bride of his choosing. But when James meets the beautiful Miss Charlotte Cunningham, he knows that his few days away look set to complicate his life further still.

Charlotte Cunningham can hardly believe the audacity of the handsome man who stared at her so openly at Hanover Hall. And when she discovers he is the son of a Duke, she is no better impressed. But James Harrington is not a man to be put off, and he quickly sets about courting the bright young woman.

However, when the old Duke unearths a shocking secret, James knows that all his hope for happiness has gone. He is left with only one option - leave the woman he loves without explanation, or risk her discovering the truth and being ruined forever.

When the dust settles, and the years have passed, can James ever find a way back into the heart of the only woman he has ever loved? And can Charlotte ever forgive him and learn to trust him once again?

"A Damsel for the Daring Duke" is a historical romance novel of approximately 80,000 words. No cheating, no cliffhangers, and a guaranteed happily ever after.

400 pages, Kindle Edition

First published May 6, 2018

513 people are currently reading
117 people want to read

About the author

Bridget Barton

163 books206 followers
Bridget Barton was born and raised in Fort Worth, Texas.

She has studied English Literature in college and after a brief passage in journalism as a newspaper writer, she stirred her career to what she always loved: becoming an author!

She has always been intrigued by rascals, vagabonds, dukes and rogues, so having the chance to write stories about them is a wish come true for her!

Bridget is married to her own prince charming and is the proud mother of two daughters (and three adorable kittens) and soon to be a grandma!

She is a hopeless romantic who devours romance literature and of course enjoys writing love stories of her own.

When she is not writing, Bridget is relaxing by cooking for her lovely husband, exercising and listening to soft music.

Bridget loves to connect with her readers!

With love and respect,
Bridget Barton

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5 stars
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84 (28%)
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45 (15%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
Profile Image for *❆ Kαɾҽɳ ❆*.
414 reviews93 followers
May 26, 2018
Oh it is always a delight to read one of Barton's books ❤

And most of the time, I'm swooning over the two beautiful people, seeing them so happy.
But of course, there is something or someone stopping them from being together, because they want the marriage to be advantage to them and not about love

This is the love case of Charlotte and James.

James is the son of a Duke, a Duke who wishes or rather demands that his son marries a lady who has a large dowry. He doesn't care who they are like, but as long as she has money, she's perfect for James
And for most of his adult years, at 30 now he has managed to avoid these talks with his father and escape to the East of the country, where he visits his childhood best friend, Hector.
But his father's patience is growing very thin and cannot avoid it much further.

What's worse is during one of his visits to escape his father, he sees a lady who is sharp, clever and humorous. She has a spark in her that he sees in no other woman. Plus, her beauty captivates him, especially with her standout red hair and bright blue eyes.

Yeah he's quite smitten
Problem? His father would never approve this match

Charlotte knows she is different from the typical ladies of her age. At only 20, she is wiser and clever than others, plus she isn't some blushing woman who looks away when being stared by a handsome, young Duke. No, she is the type to question and challenge his motives, if it's interest or just a way to find victory that he has conquered Charlotte

These two competitive people will learn that what they have isn't a game, but real emotions being played. But with James' father desperate to put an end to it all, he will go to extreme measures to make sure his son will not court the young girl

Will these wonderful couple ever be free to love one another peacefully ?

Such a delightful and romantic novel. There is a bit of heartbreak, but like all of Barton's novel, there is a guaranteed happily ever after

Highly recommended!

Received a copy from the author herself, for an honest review, thank you!
Profile Image for Space Cowgirl.
4,133 reviews144 followers
May 20, 2018
Her Kiss💔 is On His List📃 of the Best Things in Life💘

James🐺 is the son of the Duke of Sanford, and his only heir. The Duke👹 is pushing him to get married, but James🐺 wants a bride 👰of his own choosing, not some rich woman he can't stand to be around. His father has even made a list📃 of the most suitable young women with 💰money!

When James🐺 meets Charlotte💃💋, his best friend's cousin, he is sure she's the one for him. She's pretty, she's smart, she's interesting and fun, and she's from a good family.

His dear old dad says no, and he has some ill gotten secrets that will ruin her family if James🐺 persists.

ARC Received from the Author For a Voluntary and Honest Review.

The book📑 was a real page turner for me because of all the problems and roadblocks the Duke👹 creates to try to keep James🐺 from marrying Charlotte👰💋. I Loved the book!
Profile Image for Lori D.
4,080 reviews130 followers
May 14, 2018
A second chance romance that will steal you heart. James is being pushed by his father to marry well and for money but he has resisted. Meeting Charlotte, he feels he has found the woman for him. But things are not always as simple as that and when his father sets out to divulge a secret about Charlotte's father that will damage Charlotte, he backs away and leaves her alone. Three years later they meet again. but can Charlotte trust James? A great story that will keep you turning the pages and hoping for a happily ever after.
Profile Image for George.
142 reviews2 followers
May 17, 2018
A Damsel for the Daring Duke, by Bridget Barton.

"Oh what a tangled web we weave when first we practice to deceive."

It all began innocently enough, the love affair between James Harrison, son of the Duke of Sandford, and Charlotte Cunningham, daughter of Baron Lucas Cunningham. That was before the Duke's father found out and decided to prevent his son's engagement. And always it is buried secrets that cause a great mess--a three-year-long mess--that breaks up a love affair and causes great pain to everyone involved.

It takes a little while to get started, this romance about a "daring" duke--so long in fact that you wonder what's so daring about it. Once it gets rolling, however, it's a pretty convoluted tale.

It's the story of a love affair, yes, but also about a brutal father's desire to force his son marry a properly wealthy young heiress to advance the duchy's fortune. The son, of course, has other ideas. But the father proceeds to break up his son's affair by threatening to expose scandalous secrets about his fiancé's family.

At the heart of it is an illegitimate love affair, an illegitimate birth, and a scandal from which the family may never recover.

The author best describes how Regency England sees it. “You know well that the offspring of such clandestine affairs are treated with far more scorn than the perpetrators . Ruth [the illegitimate daughter] would have been vilified as illegitimate and despised when, in truth, I [Lord Lucas Cunningham, the father][ should have been the one to suffer.”

See how the web forms! And that's not the worst of it. To see how it all turns out you'll have to buy the book. It has a HEA of a sort, but with a bittersweet ending only after several years, the death of one of the major players, and a lot of very agonizing truth-telling. A great, if somewhat lengthy Regency romance by Bridget Barton.
170 reviews3 followers
May 18, 2018
This is another wonderful story from Bridget Barton. I love happy endings, but this one had a long, hard road to hoe before getting there. Baron Lucas Cunningham, a kind, forgetful, eccentric man, has raised his daughter Charlotte to be herself and will allow her to choose who she wants to marry. On the other hand, James Harrington’s father, Duke of Sandford, is willing to do anything to get what he wants, with no care for his son’s feelings. Thank goodness for Charlotte’s maid, Ruth Clarkin, who is her best friend and wise beyond her years. This story held my interest from page one to the end with the various characters, including a sleazy lawyer, as well as secrets, surprises, love, and more. As a bonus, there is also an Extended Epilogue, which really completes the story. I would recommend this book to everyone who loves clean, Regency romances with strong characters and a good plot. I received an advance reader copy of this book. I have voluntarily reviewed it and given my honest opinion.
Profile Image for Emma.
2,864 reviews39 followers
May 13, 2018
I had a sense that this book would be different and it was. Overall it was a great story an excellent plot and diverting characters. James, the heir to the duchy of Sanford met Charlotte the daughter of a Baron. They had an immediate connection. Their bantering back and forth was refreshing to read. She was such a strong minded and witty woman for her age. James was just about ten years her senior. He was jovial, courteous, honorable, kind and loyal. He had to quietly court her for fear of his father, the Duke, a most devious man who wanted to marry James off to a wealthy bride of his choosing. James did not want anyone except Charlotte. When James' father had uncovered some damning evidence against the Baron, Charlotte's father, that would affect, Charlotte, her maid Ruth and the Baron, he capitulated to his father and broke off the courtship to protect their reputation. However, he refused to marry. His best friend and confidante, Hector, was there for him during this most depressing time for James. The story picks up three years later and POW.. and the truth shall set you free. What a wonderful ending for the book. Even though there was editing errors, spacing problems and spelling errors, somehow I overlooked all that because the story was so good. If you are into good reading and are not bothered by minor problems than I suggest you read this book. I highly recommend it.
190 reviews
May 19, 2018
I always enjoy stories put forth by Bridget Barton and this one was no exception. The main characters, Charlotte and James took a long time to get the story rolling, but the story line was not the same old story. The villains were truly villains, and the good guys had to be had to be Ruth and the Baron, and I found their epilogue to be endearing. This book was a little unusual because it had so many proof reading errors,and that isn't usually the case with Ms. Barton's books. As always they are clean reading with wholesome romance, and if you can look past the little errors, the book is a very nice read.
Profile Image for Peggy.
2,118 reviews13 followers
May 15, 2018
When James Harrington falls in love with, and wishes to marry, Charlotte Cunningham, his father disapproves. Being the autocratic, domineering, cruel man that he is, he finds a way to keep them apart and bend James to his wishes. What he and his evil lawyer discover is a secret that will destroy Charlotte and her family. Because he has come to love Charlotte and care for her family, walks away from her. She does not understand his actions and is hurt. Is there any way to make this right? What will happened if the secret is found out? Can James and Charlotte ever be together?

A Damsel for the Daring Duke is a wonderful story. James and Charlotte are strong tragic characters. Charlotte’s family is as supportive as James’s father is cruel. The story flows along quickly and hold you interest start to finish. The extended epilogue is absolutely heartwarming. I recommend this one and any of Bridget Barton’s books.
29 reviews
May 16, 2018
I loved this second-chance story!

The Duke of Shawcross stops his son, Thomas, from marrying his One and Only, Lady Catherine Ambrose. She is not ranked high enough or richly dowered enough to be the Duke's acceptable bride for his son. Thomas tries to side step his father but is blocked by the Duke's unscrupulous threats to reveal an Ambrose family secret that even Lady Catherine does not know. To prevent the scandal that would result if the information was released, Thomas must say nothing and reject Catherine without explanation. Resolving the situation results in a wonderful story. I highly recommend it!

I received a free copy of this book from the author. I voluntarily offer this review. The opinon stated here is mine alone and is entirely geniune.






31 reviews3 followers
May 14, 2018
I just loved this story. It was very different from the usual historical romances in that they met, fell in love but then were separated by the meaness of a father and his lawyer, the most mean spirited jealous man you will ever meet! The strange point was the actions of the lawyer and that made the book quite addictive. The interaction between father and son was so well described you could actually feel the animosity. It was a story that I did not want to finish because it twisted and turned in a most unusual way. I would recommend this book to anyone who likes reading.
There were several interesting twists to the story and I expect some of the other characters will get their own story and I really look forward to reading them.

I received a free copy of the book but the review is all my own
1,030 reviews18 followers
May 18, 2018
Great regency. Book format is tedious at times

The format on these books drives me a little crazy. There's no break to note a change in setting or time. It sometimes makes the reading of the story confusing. With that said, I liked this story. It was not overly complex and very predictable from the beginning, but I still enjoyed it nonetheless.

Content: Clean. Story is centered somewhat around an affair, but this is clean and no description.
Language: Clean
Religious: No. I like Christian fiction at times, but it was nice to read something different.

Happy reading!!
Profile Image for Kaye.
7,177 reviews70 followers
May 14, 2018
BRINGING IT BACK!!!
If you're looking for excitement, here it is. This tale has more drama than a sane person could handle. Good thing I'm not sane. Twists, turns and unexpected surprises that kept me captivated from the start. The characters and scenes were so realistic with such graphic detailed descriptions that really brought this read to life before my eyes. Strong story line that keeps your attention on the pages as well as the edge of your seat. Ms. Barton's talent for weaving a world around you until the everything else ceases to exist except whats happening on the pages. Wonderful job Ms. Barton bringing this read together beautifully. Thanks for sharing this little jewel with us.
Profile Image for Danielle Carpenter.
1,833 reviews11 followers
May 19, 2018
This is a nice story and good light reading. I love the couple and enjoyed the story to it's conclusion.
Profile Image for Kathy Brickert.
3,476 reviews18 followers
May 17, 2018
What fun

A great story about the ups and downs of true love. The book seems to start slow, but by the time you realize they have fallen in love, it's all over due to the mean father! And don't miss the extended epilogue! It's great! Good read!!
194 reviews
May 18, 2018
Love love loved this story.

Very sweet story. I couldn't put the book down. Bridget always writes such engrossing books. A very great read. Totally recommend.
136 reviews1 follower
May 15, 2018
A Great Story

This is a great love story that very easily could not have had the ending it did. Once again Ms. Barton gives us a wonderful story that you cannot put down to the end. James and Charlotte are beautifully written characters who face a dire challenge due to James father the Duke. Read this story to see how it ends.
114 reviews
May 18, 2018
Love Triumphs

James has fallen in love although he has to hide it because of his nasty father who wants him to marry for money and will stop at nothing to make sure that happens.
8 reviews1 follower
May 17, 2018
Great love story

A great love story that lasted through many obstacles. Historical romances always have a special quality to them. A must read
Profile Image for Barbara.
19.2k reviews8 followers
May 15, 2018
A well-written story that grabbed my interest from the first page until the last one. This is James Harrington, heir to the Duchy of Sandford and Miss Charlotte Cunningham story but there is also Ruth and Lord Cunningham. I enjoyed reading this book.
Profile Image for Charlene.
1,284 reviews39 followers
May 15, 2018
interesting characters and a fun read. If you like historical romance, you will love this book. True to the time period and some twists and turns. The story flows and I love that there is a epilogue. I can honestly say that I loved this book and you will too
Profile Image for Amal Bukhari.
Author 2 books6 followers
May 16, 2018
Good novel

It was amazing time when I started read this novel . The author made the character live to me.I couldn't put the novel until I finish it.
25 reviews
May 16, 2018
Brilliant

She has done it again. The story line was well written. Every time I thought the story would go one way... it went another.
Profile Image for Cayla.
1,086 reviews36 followers
May 12, 2018
Another good one!

This book was good. Very enjoyable and well written. I did find several sentences in the book that need some minor editing. Aside from that, I am pleased to say that Bridget Barton continues to provide good material. I hope that you will enjoy this novel too.
Special note: I received this ARC in exchange for a review.
1,574 reviews7 followers
May 13, 2018
This is a wonderfully detailed and heartfelt full romantic story, one of friendship, determination and fighting for what you know is right and want. It’s so well told I can easily recommend this to everyone.
380 reviews3 followers
May 14, 2018
Wonderful

Lovely romantic story of seeming star crossed lovers. A truly beautiful love story of two people destined to be together, and finally are.
766 reviews4 followers
May 9, 2018
Good story, great characters, but badly needs editing. Many times words were run together. Several times, it appeared that corrections were made to sentences, but original wording and new wording were both still there. Even misspelled Sandford as Sanford once. A few mistakes I can take, but the editing was so poor in this book that it severely detracted from my enjoyment. My lower score is solely due to editing.
2,365 reviews12 followers
May 11, 2018
3 stars
I purchased a copy of A Damsel for the Daring Duke and this review was given freely.
Written in the Victorian style, this is a sweet, repetitive and verbose novel. Lord James and Miss Charlotte's romance is one of love and defiance prevailing over blackmail,control, self service, and scandal. Unfortunately, I found it a little to repetitive and in need of editing.
13 reviews1 follower
May 9, 2018
Barton's Historical Regency Romances deal with the many emotional and psychological repercussions caused by the courtship and marriage customs of the period in a thoroughly entertaining way. With Barton's snappy dialog, intriguing story lines, and engaging characters, she paints vivid pictures in novels I cannot put down. She even offers extended epilogues to allow me more time with her characters! A Damsel for the Daring Duke is another suspenseful and fun read!!
810 reviews5 followers
May 12, 2018
An incredible story full of emotions, drama and feeling
It is well developed and very enjoyable... you will love it!
A strange mix, full of life.
I recommend this book to all that love regency and feeling.
Profile Image for Candy Briggs.
731 reviews14 followers
May 23, 2018
James Harrington is the son of s duke. The problem is he wants James to do what he tells him to do. Of course, he has no intention of doing it. His father is nasty, cruel, and just evil. Charles Holt is just as bad. He thinks he deserves more. Charlotte Cunningham is sweet and lovely, James loves her very much. Charlotte loves her father, he is a nice man who is very kind to her and his staff.
What a story, there is kindness, love, and disappointment. But James father learns a secret and stops seeing her to save the cunninghams embarrassment. I love when they talk and tease each other and the banter between them. The characters are very developed within the story and you feel joy, heartbreak, and fear. The plot is complicated but it makes the story so very interesting and makes the book hard to put down. I think Bridget Barton did a wonderful job, as she usually does. I love her books and can't wait for more.
I received this ARC from the author and voluntarily reviewed it.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews

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