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Brethren of the Lords #2
Her Duke of Secrets
USA Today Bestselling author Christi Caldwell revisits the dark, gritty side of Regency England in her Brethren of the Lords series! Death was preferable… Since his wife was killed in an accident that stole his happiness and left him injured, William Helling, the Duke of Aubrey, is a broken man. Neither strong drink and loose women nor the power he wields as leader of the Brethren of Lords can free him from the nightmares that haunt him. He prefers to be left alone, and has no desire to heal the wound his life has become. Then one day Miss Elsie Allenby, rumored to be a skilled healer, enters his household. He should send her away and yet he’s enthralled by the mysterious stranger. Healing was her life… But not a day passes when Elsie Allenby doesn’t miss her father nor remind herself where the blame for his death The Brethren of Lords. Since that betrayal, she’s made a life for herself on the fringe of society, caring for wounded animals. Her peaceful life is turned upside down when her help is requested by the Brethren, and she finds herself in the presence last person she ever thought she would William Helling, the leader of the Brethren. With every exchange, passion grows between Elsie and William. Soon the protective walls they’ve built, begin to crumble. But when danger threatens them both, they’ll need to overcome the treachery around them. Will the past steal their passion or will love find a way? Brethren of the Lords Series Book 1: My Lady of Deception Book 2: Her Duke of Secrets
268 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 27, 2018
571 people are currently reading
259 people want to read
About the author
Christi Caldwell
137 books2,561 followersUSA TODAY Bestselling author CHRISTI CALDWELL blames Judith McNaught's "Whitney, My Love!" for luring her into the world of historical romance. While sitting in her graduate school apartment at the University of Connecticut, Christi decided to set aside her notes and pick up her laptop to try her hand at romance. She believes the most perfect heroes and heroines have imperfections, and she rather enjoys torturing them before crafting them a well deserved happily ever after!
Christi makes her home in Charlotte, North Carolina where she spends her time writing her own enchanting historical romances, and baking surprisingly good cakes (almost 2 years in lockdown will do that) with her courageous son and twin daughters, each who with their daily antics provides limitless source material.
Christi makes her home in Charlotte, North Carolina where she spends her time writing her own enchanting historical romances, and baking surprisingly good cakes (almost 2 years in lockdown will do that) with her courageous son and twin daughters, each who with their daily antics provides limitless source material.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
June 28, 2018
William and Elsie - I Love Them!
A trip back in time reveals so much! This long-awaited second installment in THE BRETHREN OF THE LORDS series was so satisfying.
The first installment was set in 1802. At that time, William Helling, Duke of Aubrey (The Sovereign), was a bachelor duke known throughout the ton as a rogue and a rake. This urbane, polished man was the Duke of Aubrey that I expected to meet in this book. Silly me!
Christi Caldwell BROKE the Duke of Aubrey. Well, what did I expect? No one does broken heroes better than Caldwell. Seriously, she literally broke him! This tale fast forwards to the year 1806. Four years later and the urbane and in control duke is no more. In his place is a wreck of a man.
Elspeth "Elsie" Allenby is a spinster living alone with her loyal canine companion, Bear. She is a plain spoken healer who has learned to live simply in her own company. Two familiar figures (to Caldwell fans) show up at her door and force her into the service of the Brethren, an organization that she despises.
As always, Caldwell's words grabbed me and propelled me into her world. I kept trying to anticipate the plot line. There were many things that surprised me and made me sigh. Lord Edward Helling's role was larger in this offering. Lord Leopold, future Marquess of Tennyson, makes an appearance. Boy, did he eat his own words.
This story can certainly stand on its own; however, I strongly recommend that you read book 1 of this series, My Lady of Deception. Several of the characters from this book are introduced in that one. A bonus for new readers? You don't have to wait years with bated breath for a sequel. Well, aren't you the lucky ones? Happy reading!
A trip back in time reveals so much! This long-awaited second installment in THE BRETHREN OF THE LORDS series was so satisfying.
The first installment was set in 1802. At that time, William Helling, Duke of Aubrey (The Sovereign), was a bachelor duke known throughout the ton as a rogue and a rake. This urbane, polished man was the Duke of Aubrey that I expected to meet in this book. Silly me!
Christi Caldwell BROKE the Duke of Aubrey. Well, what did I expect? No one does broken heroes better than Caldwell. Seriously, she literally broke him! This tale fast forwards to the year 1806. Four years later and the urbane and in control duke is no more. In his place is a wreck of a man.
Elspeth "Elsie" Allenby is a spinster living alone with her loyal canine companion, Bear. She is a plain spoken healer who has learned to live simply in her own company. Two familiar figures (to Caldwell fans) show up at her door and force her into the service of the Brethren, an organization that she despises.
As always, Caldwell's words grabbed me and propelled me into her world. I kept trying to anticipate the plot line. There were many things that surprised me and made me sigh. Lord Edward Helling's role was larger in this offering. Lord Leopold, future Marquess of Tennyson, makes an appearance. Boy, did he eat his own words.
This story can certainly stand on its own; however, I strongly recommend that you read book 1 of this series, My Lady of Deception. Several of the characters from this book are introduced in that one. A bonus for new readers? You don't have to wait years with bated breath for a sequel. Well, aren't you the lucky ones? Happy reading!
January 2, 2022
Read this if you want a slow burn between a duke with a traumatic head injury and an animal whisperer. A little bit more introspection than plot. Readable, but probably down to mood how enjoyable you find it.
William, Duke of Aubrey, is the Sovereign, aka the leader of the Brethern, a spy group answerable only to the king. We first meet in him in top form in My Lady of Deception. He exuded big, bad duke energy in Polite Society, and every interaction he had with Georgina Wilcox just made me want to read his story. Side note: Christi Caldwell can write rakes and rogues and I need more of them!
For readers worried that William would not be big or bad, especially as he has suffered from a traumatic head injury in a fatal carriage accident that killed his wife, he is still somewhat dangerous in Her Duke of Secrets. Particularly in the beginning when he doesn't want to be healed by Elsie or doesn't believe that she can help him.
This is a slow burn romance. One kiss and one sex scene. While it was intriguing to see how Elsie worked to heal William in her own unconventional way, there was just a little too much introspection going on that did slow the plot down:
1. The mystery surrounding Elsie's father and his betrayal of the Brethern and the Brethern's betrayal of him is overhyped.
You get what you get from the first page. There is no deeper twist here, yet there is a constant cryptic atmosphere, as Elsie reflects upon her father, her trauma, whether William knows who she is, how she can even help her enemy etc.
2. There is not much going on for William's healing journey, either.
Elsie has never worked with human patients by herself, only animals. She is not a doctor but a holistic healer where she is a keen observer, a therapist, an herbalist, and a masseuse. These are, in essence, the remedies that Elsie works with to help William.
I wish there was more of it.
I felt like the story would have moved swifter if Elsie's POV could have been more about it. Instead, I felt like these scenes were drawn out, and that some of Elsie's teaching moments were a little long-winded: When Elsie shaves him, tells him they need to sit down to have their meals together, or when they are in the kitchen and William asks her what she is doing there. It felt slow, meandering. A lot of pages devoted to not very interesting action.
William's POV bore more fruit. His reflections on his dead wife and losing her were particularly meaningful, as he grapples with what he loved about his wife. When we meet him, he is guilt ridden for causing her death, and has no will to do anything except be a stinky alcoholic. He loved his wife because she was small, dainty - feminine mystique. He remembers how, as a child, he was in a room full of wondrous confections where he felt so much awe and enchantment, and this was the same feeling of his reverent love for his wife. Yet at the same time, we find out that their marriage was also proper - they didn't even sleep in the same room. So there were all these interesting memories surfacing for William.
Although William thinks about his deceased wife a lot, it never overshadows or detracts from his attraction or interactions with Elsie. From the first instant, there is chemistry between them and he recognizes his interest. There is even a scene when he thinks he shouldn't be comparing the two women together, as he found himself doing so. William's rumination on his dead wife is also a big part of his healing journey, as he needed to work through his grief and guilt, and it was quite proper to devote time to this.
Overall, I liked this but I also wasn't flipping the pages in my haste to find out what happens.
William, Duke of Aubrey, is the Sovereign, aka the leader of the Brethern, a spy group answerable only to the king. We first meet in him in top form in My Lady of Deception. He exuded big, bad duke energy in Polite Society, and every interaction he had with Georgina Wilcox just made me want to read his story. Side note: Christi Caldwell can write rakes and rogues and I need more of them!
For readers worried that William would not be big or bad, especially as he has suffered from a traumatic head injury in a fatal carriage accident that killed his wife, he is still somewhat dangerous in Her Duke of Secrets. Particularly in the beginning when he doesn't want to be healed by Elsie or doesn't believe that she can help him.
This is a slow burn romance. One kiss and one sex scene. While it was intriguing to see how Elsie worked to heal William in her own unconventional way, there was just a little too much introspection going on that did slow the plot down:
1. The mystery surrounding Elsie's father and his betrayal of the Brethern and the Brethern's betrayal of him is overhyped.
You get what you get from the first page. There is no deeper twist here, yet there is a constant cryptic atmosphere, as Elsie reflects upon her father, her trauma, whether William knows who she is, how she can even help her enemy etc.
2. There is not much going on for William's healing journey, either.
Elsie has never worked with human patients by herself, only animals. She is not a doctor but a holistic healer where she is a keen observer, a therapist, an herbalist, and a masseuse. These are, in essence, the remedies that Elsie works with to help William.
I wish there was more of it.
I felt like the story would have moved swifter if Elsie's POV could have been more about it. Instead, I felt like these scenes were drawn out, and that some of Elsie's teaching moments were a little long-winded: When Elsie shaves him, tells him they need to sit down to have their meals together, or when they are in the kitchen and William asks her what she is doing there. It felt slow, meandering. A lot of pages devoted to not very interesting action.
William's POV bore more fruit. His reflections on his dead wife and losing her were particularly meaningful, as he grapples with what he loved about his wife. When we meet him, he is guilt ridden for causing her death, and has no will to do anything except be a stinky alcoholic. He loved his wife because she was small, dainty - feminine mystique. He remembers how, as a child, he was in a room full of wondrous confections where he felt so much awe and enchantment, and this was the same feeling of his reverent love for his wife. Yet at the same time, we find out that their marriage was also proper - they didn't even sleep in the same room. So there were all these interesting memories surfacing for William.
Although William thinks about his deceased wife a lot, it never overshadows or detracts from his attraction or interactions with Elsie. From the first instant, there is chemistry between them and he recognizes his interest. There is even a scene when he thinks he shouldn't be comparing the two women together, as he found himself doing so. William's rumination on his dead wife is also a big part of his healing journey, as he needed to work through his grief and guilt, and it was quite proper to devote time to this.
Overall, I liked this but I also wasn't flipping the pages in my haste to find out what happens.
June 27, 2018
Having lived alone in her cottage, since her father was murdered for his dealings with the Brethren, Elsie Allenby is approached some five years later by the very people who had a hand in her anguish to help their ailing leader. Reluctantly, Elsie agrees, for ultimately, healing was why she existed, even though she had nearly been shunned by all those around her.
William Helling, Duke of Aubrey and Sovereign of the Brethren , the secret organization entrusted with protecting the Crown, is a shadow of his former self. When tragedy strikes leaving his body in constant pain and his wife murdered, William hides himself away drowning his sorrows and agony in drinking and whoring.
When his brother, Edward arrives with yet another in a long line of healers, William is skeptical as well as hesitant, even more-so when he finds that his latest would-be savior is a woman. Elsie blames William and all the Brethren for abandoning her father in his time of need, but her hatred slowly dissipates the more time spent in William's company.
William admittedly has never met a woman like Elsie Allenby, she is a conundrum. She succeeds in more ways than any doctor and with each hurdle overcome, the more William desires the unconventional Miss Allenby. William, however, has already let too many people down in his life and he refuses to allow anyone else to pay for his choices, including the woman he has come to love.
Author Christi Caldwell has published more than 40 books in 5 odd years and this indomitable woman continues to impress me with each title she releases. Her Duke of Secrets is an expertly written tale of forgiveness and healing. Ms. Caldwell's dialogue will make you tear up and her characters will make you fall in love. She has an innate sense in making a reader fall for the irredeemable and this reader is hers forever. Whether this will be your first Christi Caldwell book or your 40th, I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
William Helling, Duke of Aubrey and Sovereign of the Brethren , the secret organization entrusted with protecting the Crown, is a shadow of his former self. When tragedy strikes leaving his body in constant pain and his wife murdered, William hides himself away drowning his sorrows and agony in drinking and whoring.
When his brother, Edward arrives with yet another in a long line of healers, William is skeptical as well as hesitant, even more-so when he finds that his latest would-be savior is a woman. Elsie blames William and all the Brethren for abandoning her father in his time of need, but her hatred slowly dissipates the more time spent in William's company.
William admittedly has never met a woman like Elsie Allenby, she is a conundrum. She succeeds in more ways than any doctor and with each hurdle overcome, the more William desires the unconventional Miss Allenby. William, however, has already let too many people down in his life and he refuses to allow anyone else to pay for his choices, including the woman he has come to love.
Author Christi Caldwell has published more than 40 books in 5 odd years and this indomitable woman continues to impress me with each title she releases. Her Duke of Secrets is an expertly written tale of forgiveness and healing. Ms. Caldwell's dialogue will make you tear up and her characters will make you fall in love. She has an innate sense in making a reader fall for the irredeemable and this reader is hers forever. Whether this will be your first Christi Caldwell book or your 40th, I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
June 28, 2018
It seems like we waited FOREVER for the Duke of Aubrey’s story. I ‘met’ him in my first ever Christi Caldwell book (My lady of Deception), more than five years ago, and Gosh! … was it worth the long wait. The Brethren will always remain a favourite, not only because it was my very first Christi Caldwell series, but because it was just simply awesome. Yes, if thumb marks could be left on my Kindle, this would undoubtedly be the most thumbed book of mine. Since that book, the Duke of Aubrey has intrigued and fascinated. From Georgia to Leo (and just a mention in Nate’s book, The Spy who Seduced Her) his appearance in every previous book has just been too tantalizing to ignore. I wanted to know more about the ‘Sovereign’. And now we know!
William. That is his name. Aubrey had to be a William. And just as perfect as his story. We waited and waited and were rewarded manifold for the patience (well not so patient, as we continue to harangue Christi for more and more stories of her additional characters all the time!) Her Duke of Secrets, is the second in the Brethren series, though we did get stories about some of the related characters in previous books. Even though in the order of things it goes way back, but it was perfect and so well written. Flawed and ‘broken’ heroes are really the best, and when Christi portrays them one can actually feel all their pain and fears as your own. William loved, William lost and William lived again. When we read about him and Elsie in Leo’s book (awww… the rogue has a cute cameo in this one!) it set the stage of their own story, one of dark emotions and scarred lives and sexy spies!! William and his story lived up to the Aubrey we met earlier.
I’ve always loved a spunky heroine. It has always ever been the heroine of each book that either works for me or not. Elsie Allenby, though herself ridden with fears and loneliness is spunky, smart, simple and a skilfully written character. She is kind and funny and stands up to anything thrown her way quite beautifully. Her interactions throughout the book, and especially at the end, with most of the characters, are ‘splendid’ and I could just see her years later as Leo’s aunt (it helped that I HAVE seen her years later as Loe’s aunt!!)
Once again, I do not need to say that Christi’s “Caldworld Universe” (as we call it), just pulls you into her stories effortlessly. Needless to say, this one too gets a well deserved 5 star and a petition for Grace and Edward’s story please. They already have two kids, for God’s sake!! High time we heard about them.
Is Fairy Godmother Christi Caldwell listening?
William. That is his name. Aubrey had to be a William. And just as perfect as his story. We waited and waited and were rewarded manifold for the patience (well not so patient, as we continue to harangue Christi for more and more stories of her additional characters all the time!) Her Duke of Secrets, is the second in the Brethren series, though we did get stories about some of the related characters in previous books. Even though in the order of things it goes way back, but it was perfect and so well written. Flawed and ‘broken’ heroes are really the best, and when Christi portrays them one can actually feel all their pain and fears as your own. William loved, William lost and William lived again. When we read about him and Elsie in Leo’s book (awww… the rogue has a cute cameo in this one!) it set the stage of their own story, one of dark emotions and scarred lives and sexy spies!! William and his story lived up to the Aubrey we met earlier.
I’ve always loved a spunky heroine. It has always ever been the heroine of each book that either works for me or not. Elsie Allenby, though herself ridden with fears and loneliness is spunky, smart, simple and a skilfully written character. She is kind and funny and stands up to anything thrown her way quite beautifully. Her interactions throughout the book, and especially at the end, with most of the characters, are ‘splendid’ and I could just see her years later as Leo’s aunt (it helped that I HAVE seen her years later as Loe’s aunt!!)
Once again, I do not need to say that Christi’s “Caldworld Universe” (as we call it), just pulls you into her stories effortlessly. Needless to say, this one too gets a well deserved 5 star and a petition for Grace and Edward’s story please. They already have two kids, for God’s sake!! High time we heard about them.
Is Fairy Godmother Christi Caldwell listening?
June 27, 2018
Her Duke of Secrets by Christi Caldwell is a wonderful story of second chance love, healing physical and emotional scars, redemption, and so much more. The Duke of Aubrey and Elsie Allenby have cameos in previous books, so I was thrilled that they got their own sory told. Thank you for the awesome story.
June 29, 2018
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
💋💋
My First book by Christi Caldwell was the predecessor to this , the first of the Brethren series
I’ve waited long and patiently for this book , and it pleases me no end that it’s finally been released.
This is the Duke of Allenby’s and Elsie’s story ,and it’s just about as perfect as it’s possible to be .
This author has a gift of building tension and endearing characters to you in the space of 1 chapter, as she does with Elsie here , poor Elsie has lost her father and lived as a recluse for the past five years , blaming the Brethren for her problems.
As for the Duke , well , I knew he was going to be damaged and in need of help , but I really felt for him , described as lost and unkempt but intimidating,I still had a soft spot for him from the start .
His brother Edward is also in pain from watching William fall apart .
The author had her work cut out for her with these characters, but like Elsie she has worked wonders , and slowly but surely seems to find the path to both love and peace for all .
A stunning story and a worthy book to continue the saga in this much loved series.
💋💋
My First book by Christi Caldwell was the predecessor to this , the first of the Brethren series
I’ve waited long and patiently for this book , and it pleases me no end that it’s finally been released.
This is the Duke of Allenby’s and Elsie’s story ,and it’s just about as perfect as it’s possible to be .
This author has a gift of building tension and endearing characters to you in the space of 1 chapter, as she does with Elsie here , poor Elsie has lost her father and lived as a recluse for the past five years , blaming the Brethren for her problems.
As for the Duke , well , I knew he was going to be damaged and in need of help , but I really felt for him , described as lost and unkempt but intimidating,I still had a soft spot for him from the start .
His brother Edward is also in pain from watching William fall apart .
The author had her work cut out for her with these characters, but like Elsie she has worked wonders , and slowly but surely seems to find the path to both love and peace for all .
A stunning story and a worthy book to continue the saga in this much loved series.
July 5, 2018
I love This series
Another great read in The Bethren of the Lord's series. At first I was hesitant about it especially in the first two chapters but after that there was nothing but wonderful. I loved her healing skills. The heroine was simply amazing. Strong, funny, brave, smart and everything I like in a heroine. He was so broken and I loved that she fixed him. My favorite character though was Bear, her pet dog. He stole the show simply by showing his love for his humans. There were surprises and secrets but in the end love conquered all of course. I am just in awe of this writer's ability and I cannot wait to read more of her.
Another great read in The Bethren of the Lord's series. At first I was hesitant about it especially in the first two chapters but after that there was nothing but wonderful. I loved her healing skills. The heroine was simply amazing. Strong, funny, brave, smart and everything I like in a heroine. He was so broken and I loved that she fixed him. My favorite character though was Bear, her pet dog. He stole the show simply by showing his love for his humans. There were surprises and secrets but in the end love conquered all of course. I am just in awe of this writer's ability and I cannot wait to read more of her.
June 30, 2018
Amazing!
Loved this (long-awaited) story. Two people so very broken in different ways, and their journey to becoming whole again. This is Christi Caldwell at her absolute best! While this book is certainly a standalone romance, it is definitely interesting to see the shift in Aubrey’s character from the first book (My Lady of Deception) to the broken man we meet now, and to go back in time from his latest appearance in The Lady Who Loved Him, when he was once again a strong character. As a long-time Christi fan, I loved the peek at who Leo (Tennyson) was as a young boy.
Loved this (long-awaited) story. Two people so very broken in different ways, and their journey to becoming whole again. This is Christi Caldwell at her absolute best! While this book is certainly a standalone romance, it is definitely interesting to see the shift in Aubrey’s character from the first book (My Lady of Deception) to the broken man we meet now, and to go back in time from his latest appearance in The Lady Who Loved Him, when he was once again a strong character. As a long-time Christi fan, I loved the peek at who Leo (Tennyson) was as a young boy.
June 29, 2018
I love a wounded hero story. They’re damaged physically and emotionally. They have that ingrained code of honor and are loyal. They often harshly judge themselves. Some fight for redemption, some hide from the world, some act out in inappropriate ways. Whatever the case, they’re hard to love and often see themselves as unworthy of love. But with the right heroine, they can learn to give and receive love again. And when they do love, they do it with everything in them.
William and Elsie’s story was even more wonderful than I’d imagined it could be. I fell in love with both of them the moment they started talking to the dog, Bear. Though they came from entirely different worlds, they were so much alike. Both had had everything taken from them. They were haunted by the past and mistrustful of others. For Elsie, that mistrust came after her father’s betrayal by the Brethren. For William, as sovereign of the Brethren, he had been taught to trust no one. But once they met, everything they believed changed. William was nothing like those noble men who had so cruelly let Elsie’s father die. He was conflicted and tormented and that added a level of humanity to him. He didn’t mock Elsie or see her as odd like so many did. He encouraged her to do more. Elsie was like no one William had ever met. She was intelligent, direct, undaunted. She didn’t care that he was a duke or sovereign. She treated him as a man.
Though Elsie had come to help William heal, they healed each other. They recognized themselves in each other and shared things they’d never shared with anyone else. They were the unlikeliest of pairs but they were kindred spirits. Both had suffered and struggled and kept secrets close. But in sharing those secrets, they learned to trust again, to laugh again, to feel again, and to love again. Christi Caldwell writes a beautiful and emotional love story in this second book of her Brethren of the Lords series. I am in love with this darker and grittier world she has created and I can’t wait to see what’s next in this series.
William and Elsie’s story was even more wonderful than I’d imagined it could be. I fell in love with both of them the moment they started talking to the dog, Bear. Though they came from entirely different worlds, they were so much alike. Both had had everything taken from them. They were haunted by the past and mistrustful of others. For Elsie, that mistrust came after her father’s betrayal by the Brethren. For William, as sovereign of the Brethren, he had been taught to trust no one. But once they met, everything they believed changed. William was nothing like those noble men who had so cruelly let Elsie’s father die. He was conflicted and tormented and that added a level of humanity to him. He didn’t mock Elsie or see her as odd like so many did. He encouraged her to do more. Elsie was like no one William had ever met. She was intelligent, direct, undaunted. She didn’t care that he was a duke or sovereign. She treated him as a man.
Though Elsie had come to help William heal, they healed each other. They recognized themselves in each other and shared things they’d never shared with anyone else. They were the unlikeliest of pairs but they were kindred spirits. Both had suffered and struggled and kept secrets close. But in sharing those secrets, they learned to trust again, to laugh again, to feel again, and to love again. Christi Caldwell writes a beautiful and emotional love story in this second book of her Brethren of the Lords series. I am in love with this darker and grittier world she has created and I can’t wait to see what’s next in this series.
July 19, 2018
In her continuation of the lives of those in The Brethren (a secret order charged with protecting England) Christi Caldwell writes a heart-wrenching tale of a man’s who has lost love and a woman who has lost almost everything to The Brethren and how two different souls help each other heal.
Ms. Caldwell’s writing draws on every emotion known and Her Duke of Secrets is no exception.
Ms. Caldwell’s writing draws on every emotion known and Her Duke of Secrets is no exception.
June 30, 2018
Excellent
Her Duke of Secrets is Book 2 in the Brethren of the Lords series. But really it is the deeper story of the Duke of Aubrey first met In My Lady of Deception. His leadership of the Brethren made him a character of interest starting in that book, continuing in glimpses of him found in Lord Tennyson’s story ( The Lady who loved him) and in Nathaniel ‘s story (The Spy Who Seduced her). Elsie is a healer who is ostracized by her village and has a deep hatred for the Brethren of the Lords for them allowing her father to be killed. Now they need her to heal their leader. Together they discover that love does conquer all. Christi Caldwell has mastered the redemption and healing of broken damaged people and this story is the epitome of this trope. I loved it!
Her Duke of Secrets is Book 2 in the Brethren of the Lords series. But really it is the deeper story of the Duke of Aubrey first met In My Lady of Deception. His leadership of the Brethren made him a character of interest starting in that book, continuing in glimpses of him found in Lord Tennyson’s story ( The Lady who loved him) and in Nathaniel ‘s story (The Spy Who Seduced her). Elsie is a healer who is ostracized by her village and has a deep hatred for the Brethren of the Lords for them allowing her father to be killed. Now they need her to heal their leader. Together they discover that love does conquer all. Christi Caldwell has mastered the redemption and healing of broken damaged people and this story is the epitome of this trope. I loved it!
June 29, 2018
To those lovers of historical romance who haven’t yet read Christi Caldwell’s work, I highly recommend this author. And those who have, you know what a treasure she is! She writes with so much heart, creating a world that pulls readers in with the turn of the first few pages, holding us captive and emotionally attached to her brilliantly developed characters.
You will fall in love with William and Elsie. Two souls hurting, one totally defeated and the other alone and trying to overcome the hurts and losses of the past. Can the connection of their past be reborn in a hope for the future. This was a non-stop read for me, late into the night, with my eyes hurting, until the emotionally draining and blissfully happy end. Absolutely wonderful!
You will fall in love with William and Elsie. Two souls hurting, one totally defeated and the other alone and trying to overcome the hurts and losses of the past. Can the connection of their past be reborn in a hope for the future. This was a non-stop read for me, late into the night, with my eyes hurting, until the emotionally draining and blissfully happy end. Absolutely wonderful!
July 25, 2018
Elsie the healer.
Let me just start off by saying that I have NEVER been a fan of the first book of the series Brethren of Lords. Though all the CaldWorld regulars love this book it was simply too gory and too violent for my likes.
Suffices to say - I did not have great expectations when I first picked this book. It was more of a personal passion to not miss one of Christi Caldwell's books that I simply purchased it.
And I was pleasantly surprised!
Elspeth or Elsie is a healer. She cares. She nurtures. She brings back to life. Animals. Wounded beings. Humans. She is first and foremost a carer. So when the hated Brethren members turn up at her doorstep to hire her for her skills she wants to send them to hell. But her promise to be a healer first wins over.
William Helling - the Duke of Aubrey is a broken man. He cares for no one bar his "pleasures" that help him momentarily forget his nightmares. He doesnt care of his title, his life or his role within the Brethren. If only there was a way out of it all! But secretly he hopes to be free of his demons.
Will the past wrongs tear away the promise of something more between Elsie and William is what "Her Duke of Secrets" is all about.
For me William was just an aside to the story. Christi creates another wonderful female protagonist who stands tall amidst giants of the Ton. Its another vintage Caldwell tale of a strong female who goes on to change a small piece of world for the better.
Bravo Christi. Another feather in your cap.
From hating the series to this tale being in my top 3 CaldWorld tales, I have been converted.
Let me just start off by saying that I have NEVER been a fan of the first book of the series Brethren of Lords. Though all the CaldWorld regulars love this book it was simply too gory and too violent for my likes.
Suffices to say - I did not have great expectations when I first picked this book. It was more of a personal passion to not miss one of Christi Caldwell's books that I simply purchased it.
And I was pleasantly surprised!
Elspeth or Elsie is a healer. She cares. She nurtures. She brings back to life. Animals. Wounded beings. Humans. She is first and foremost a carer. So when the hated Brethren members turn up at her doorstep to hire her for her skills she wants to send them to hell. But her promise to be a healer first wins over.
William Helling - the Duke of Aubrey is a broken man. He cares for no one bar his "pleasures" that help him momentarily forget his nightmares. He doesnt care of his title, his life or his role within the Brethren. If only there was a way out of it all! But secretly he hopes to be free of his demons.
Will the past wrongs tear away the promise of something more between Elsie and William is what "Her Duke of Secrets" is all about.
For me William was just an aside to the story. Christi creates another wonderful female protagonist who stands tall amidst giants of the Ton. Its another vintage Caldwell tale of a strong female who goes on to change a small piece of world for the better.
Bravo Christi. Another feather in your cap.
From hating the series to this tale being in my top 3 CaldWorld tales, I have been converted.
March 19, 2019
Loved it! Although I liked book 1 of this series, I much preferred this story. The main characters were very likeable and their budding love story was so heartfelt. I very much enjoyed reading their story. 5☆
June 28, 2018
Tensely plotted
including bits of pertinent esoteric scholarship. Although one dilemma is resolved, Spoiler Alert, this reader hopes that the nephew is protected in an ensuing book.
including bits of pertinent esoteric scholarship. Although one dilemma is resolved, Spoiler Alert, this reader hopes that the nephew is protected in an ensuing book.
July 3, 2018
*********4.5 Stars********
Christi Caldwell has worked her magic once again. When I found out that Ms. Caldwell was finally going to continue to write more books in this, I just knew we (as the reader) where in for something special. Elsie and William's story was a haunting beautiful love story that will leave you breathless and wanting more.
Elsie and William are two lost souls each drowning in the pain and sorrow of their lives. William pain stems from the fact he can't forgive himself and therefore decides he must punish himself for his failings. Elsie is angry and bitter at the wrongs other have done to her and her father. She would rather shut herself away from the world as a way to protect herself.
Elsie was such an amazing herione! even though she had let bitterness sweep into her life, when her help was needed to heal an individual she refused to let the pain of her past stop her from doing what she was born to do. Once Elsie steped into William's house, she slowly started coming back to life. It was such a beautiful thing to watch. Each interaction and decision made in that house helped revived a dead soul until her angry and pain could no longer sustain her and she begin to live and long for more.
William's story was so heartbreaking. He really believed he didn't deserve to be happy or to live any type of existence that he locked himself away, gladly basking in the pain and misery his life had become. He was so consumed by guilt over what happened to his wife that it begin to strangle the life out of him.
Neither Elsie or William were living the life they were meant to live. Two strong individuals with the power to change the lives of those around them, but were locked away in a prison of there own making. strangled by the weeds of pain, guilt and bitterness. it wasn't until they were brought together did there souls begin to mend. They both challenged and pushed each other to deal with the past and they pain that held them prisoner.
I also love how Elsie and William handle the difficult conversations. They may have argued, railed against or didn't always agree with what the other was saying, but they always listen to each other. They might have walked away a time or two, but they both always thought on what the other said to them and often agreed to assessments they themselves were to blind to see. The way Elsie and William communicated with each, was something you don't often see in romance novel. There was no unnecessary drama and they often respected each other enough to speak some hard truths. It laid such a great foundation for their relationship.
Elsie and William's journey was never an easy one and their story was fraught with tears and pain. They had to overcome their own fears and ghost of the past in order find their own slice of happiness. It's a journey that will have you crying, yelling and yes sometimes even laughing, but it's a journey worth taking.
Christi Caldwell has worked her magic once again. When I found out that Ms. Caldwell was finally going to continue to write more books in this, I just knew we (as the reader) where in for something special. Elsie and William's story was a haunting beautiful love story that will leave you breathless and wanting more.
Elsie and William are two lost souls each drowning in the pain and sorrow of their lives. William pain stems from the fact he can't forgive himself and therefore decides he must punish himself for his failings. Elsie is angry and bitter at the wrongs other have done to her and her father. She would rather shut herself away from the world as a way to protect herself.
Elsie was such an amazing herione! even though she had let bitterness sweep into her life, when her help was needed to heal an individual she refused to let the pain of her past stop her from doing what she was born to do. Once Elsie steped into William's house, she slowly started coming back to life. It was such a beautiful thing to watch. Each interaction and decision made in that house helped revived a dead soul until her angry and pain could no longer sustain her and she begin to live and long for more.
William's story was so heartbreaking. He really believed he didn't deserve to be happy or to live any type of existence that he locked himself away, gladly basking in the pain and misery his life had become. He was so consumed by guilt over what happened to his wife that it begin to strangle the life out of him.
Neither Elsie or William were living the life they were meant to live. Two strong individuals with the power to change the lives of those around them, but were locked away in a prison of there own making. strangled by the weeds of pain, guilt and bitterness. it wasn't until they were brought together did there souls begin to mend. They both challenged and pushed each other to deal with the past and they pain that held them prisoner.
I also love how Elsie and William handle the difficult conversations. They may have argued, railed against or didn't always agree with what the other was saying, but they always listen to each other. They might have walked away a time or two, but they both always thought on what the other said to them and often agreed to assessments they themselves were to blind to see. The way Elsie and William communicated with each, was something you don't often see in romance novel. There was no unnecessary drama and they often respected each other enough to speak some hard truths. It laid such a great foundation for their relationship.
Elsie and William's journey was never an easy one and their story was fraught with tears and pain. They had to overcome their own fears and ghost of the past in order find their own slice of happiness. It's a journey that will have you crying, yelling and yes sometimes even laughing, but it's a journey worth taking.
July 31, 2018
Her Duke of Secrets ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️by Christi Caldwell
When. I started this story, I had just completed the previous book in this series My Lady of Deception. I hesitated because the main character William Helling, the Duke of Aubrey was a total recluse he was drinking and whoring.
I went back to the first book to check if I had the right person.Sure enough Ms Caldwell took us for a spin by slowly hinting at what occurred to this man.
His brother Edward tried as he might bringing in doctors and healers could not find the help he needed. This is when he approaches Elsie Allenby a woman in self exile for five years.
Elsie is not a doctor of humans although she helped her father in his dealings with the injured members of the Brethern. She was dedicated to healing animals.
Surprisingly, William allows her to stay. Elsie’s unconventional
methods spoke volumes even though he is skeptical. William suffered a debilitating injury of a broken jaw in the carriage accident that killed his wife. He sufferers physical and mental injuries which need to be cured.
He has never meet a person quite like Ms Allenby and finds himself both admiring her and beginning to care for her.
Elsie begins by doing what is necessary; then she does what is possible and suddenly William has now accomplished the impossible.
This was a deeply moving book into the lives of William and Elsie as only cast by this authors pen. I would recommend this read.
When. I started this story, I had just completed the previous book in this series My Lady of Deception. I hesitated because the main character William Helling, the Duke of Aubrey was a total recluse he was drinking and whoring.
I went back to the first book to check if I had the right person.Sure enough Ms Caldwell took us for a spin by slowly hinting at what occurred to this man.
His brother Edward tried as he might bringing in doctors and healers could not find the help he needed. This is when he approaches Elsie Allenby a woman in self exile for five years.
Elsie is not a doctor of humans although she helped her father in his dealings with the injured members of the Brethern. She was dedicated to healing animals.
Surprisingly, William allows her to stay. Elsie’s unconventional
methods spoke volumes even though he is skeptical. William suffered a debilitating injury of a broken jaw in the carriage accident that killed his wife. He sufferers physical and mental injuries which need to be cured.
He has never meet a person quite like Ms Allenby and finds himself both admiring her and beginning to care for her.
Elsie begins by doing what is necessary; then she does what is possible and suddenly William has now accomplished the impossible.
This was a deeply moving book into the lives of William and Elsie as only cast by this authors pen. I would recommend this read.
July 5, 2018
Her Duke of Secrets by Christi Caldwell
Brethren of the Lords Series Book Two
Miss Elsie Allenby hates the Brethren and all the men in it. After all, they used her father and when he needed them...they abandoned him and let him die. And yet, when they seek her out almost five years later for her medical skills that she learned from working along her father...his words whisper back to her to always help when she can. Even if it's the enemy that needs her help.
William Helling, the Duke of Aubrey hasn't been living since the death of his wife almost a year ago. His own injuries from the accident...well, he deserves to suffer for not protecting those under his care. When his brother brings yet another doctor to look at him, he agrees. After all, they won't be around long because no one can help him.
Loved the story and both the human and canine characters. Elsie has a great attitude. And she's not afraid to be herself...even with a duke.
**Sexual content
http://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com/...
Brethren of the Lords Series Book Two
Miss Elsie Allenby hates the Brethren and all the men in it. After all, they used her father and when he needed them...they abandoned him and let him die. And yet, when they seek her out almost five years later for her medical skills that she learned from working along her father...his words whisper back to her to always help when she can. Even if it's the enemy that needs her help.
William Helling, the Duke of Aubrey hasn't been living since the death of his wife almost a year ago. His own injuries from the accident...well, he deserves to suffer for not protecting those under his care. When his brother brings yet another doctor to look at him, he agrees. After all, they won't be around long because no one can help him.
Loved the story and both the human and canine characters. Elsie has a great attitude. And she's not afraid to be herself...even with a duke.
**Sexual content
http://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com/...
June 20, 2021
Delightful!
Her Duke of Secrets, book 2 of Christi Caldwell’s Brethren of the Lords series, is an absolutely delightful tale. William Helling, Duke of Aubrey, the powerful leader of the Brethren, is a broken man following a carriage accident that injured him and killed his wife. Elsie Allenby is a skilled healer, who learned at the hand of her father in service to the Brethren. Elsie has missed her father for five years, and can’t help but remember that the blame for his death lies with the Brethren. So when they enlist her help to heal William, it’s the last thing she wants to do. But every moment spent together is a balm to both of their wounded souls, but can it survive duty and service to the Brethren. I absolutely loved this story, which is a little different from Christi Caldwell’s other stories. For me it had a greater emotional depth to these characters, reminiscent of someone suffering not just physical injury, but PTSD. Elsie was bright and brilliant in her work with William and it touched a place in my heart.
Her Duke of Secrets, book 2 of Christi Caldwell’s Brethren of the Lords series, is an absolutely delightful tale. William Helling, Duke of Aubrey, the powerful leader of the Brethren, is a broken man following a carriage accident that injured him and killed his wife. Elsie Allenby is a skilled healer, who learned at the hand of her father in service to the Brethren. Elsie has missed her father for five years, and can’t help but remember that the blame for his death lies with the Brethren. So when they enlist her help to heal William, it’s the last thing she wants to do. But every moment spent together is a balm to both of their wounded souls, but can it survive duty and service to the Brethren. I absolutely loved this story, which is a little different from Christi Caldwell’s other stories. For me it had a greater emotional depth to these characters, reminiscent of someone suffering not just physical injury, but PTSD. Elsie was bright and brilliant in her work with William and it touched a place in my heart.
July 3, 2018
Ms. Caldwell once again has another WINNING! Page-turning, CAN'T MISS! HIT! , in Her Duke of Secrets. The 2nd in her, Btethren's of the Lord series. Elsie Allenby and William Helling, the Duke of Aubrey, and head of the Brethren story. I think Elsie is my favorite of Ms. Caldwell's Heroines to date. I loved her story. Both her and William's. As usual, Ms. Caldwell made me feel, and sympathize with both characters. I loved that Elsie was a 'healer.' Essentially a Dr. Caring for and healing both humans and animals, alongside her beloved father, until his murder. I loved that the story heavily featured a dog, the big, old, black, Bear. Elsie's faithful companion. As I'm a sucker for pets in books. And I loved when Bear befriended William. And when Elsie left, and left Bear with William I got teary. I really liked William, and sympathized and felt for him. I really liked his brother too. Just another AWESOME book by Ms. Caldwell.
October 23, 2020
with numerous high reviews for this book, i was not very impressed and was disappointed by the book.
it was a slow build to elsie's and william's relationship but i felt i did not see enough interaction between them and then suddenly at chapter 20, they realize they're in love. i found it odd. to be honest, i can't quite see the chemistry. i preferred My Lady of Deception because it had its ups and downs moments and it felt like a rollercoaster. Her Dukes of Secrets is slow and uneventful which was boring except until the last minute (and resolved too quickly also). i really loved Bear though, he's so cute, made the book better.
and where's the epilogue?
it was a slow build to elsie's and william's relationship but i felt i did not see enough interaction between them and then suddenly at chapter 20, they realize they're in love. i found it odd. to be honest, i can't quite see the chemistry. i preferred My Lady of Deception because it had its ups and downs moments and it felt like a rollercoaster. Her Dukes of Secrets is slow and uneventful which was boring except until the last minute (and resolved too quickly also). i really loved Bear though, he's so cute, made the book better.
and where's the epilogue?
June 28, 2018
TWO DAMAGED PEOPLE, TWO BROKEN HEARTS
Although they might not have realized it. Since the heroine has supposedly never been in love, a person can be forgiven for failing to realize her heart was broken. His heart is clearly labelled.
This is a wonderful book, not only because it is written in a clear, lyrical style, but also because it has a very clear, very dominant HEROINE.
The hero is a strong figure, but Elsie rules this book. Without her strength, nothing else happens. In this way, it is quite similar to the previous book in this series, but while My Lady of Deception contains many grim parts, and a fair number of even worse parts, this book is its near polar opposite, full of goodness and light.
Although they might not have realized it. Since the heroine has supposedly never been in love, a person can be forgiven for failing to realize her heart was broken. His heart is clearly labelled.
This is a wonderful book, not only because it is written in a clear, lyrical style, but also because it has a very clear, very dominant HEROINE.
The hero is a strong figure, but Elsie rules this book. Without her strength, nothing else happens. In this way, it is quite similar to the previous book in this series, but while My Lady of Deception contains many grim parts, and a fair number of even worse parts, this book is its near polar opposite, full of goodness and light.
July 21, 2018
A Safe and Sweet Romance
3.5 Stars
I just finished writing a glowing review of My Lady of Deception which is the first Brethren of the Lords book. I was a little disappointed by this one after reading the first one. For one thing there is very little connection between the two books (you definitely don’t have to read the 1st one to follow this one) and for another, this one is so tame and safe compared to the first. There just wasn’t anywhere close to enough action or life-threatening drama for it to be classified as a spy novel. There is a hint of action at the end, but it is so short, and completely out of nowhere, that it just seemed like an afterthought. William is broken, but still manly and commanding. Elsie is more subtly broken, but able to confidently help William regain his life. Their romance is sweet and tender and moves at a nice pace. I recommended if you are looking for a solid historical romance but don’t mind a lack of action. WARNING: there is sex in this book, it is not erotica, but enough to be a steamy & hot adult romance. Please do not read if you are looking for something PG. Romance-5/5 Steaminess-4/5 Explicitness-3/5
3.5 Stars
I just finished writing a glowing review of My Lady of Deception which is the first Brethren of the Lords book. I was a little disappointed by this one after reading the first one. For one thing there is very little connection between the two books (you definitely don’t have to read the 1st one to follow this one) and for another, this one is so tame and safe compared to the first. There just wasn’t anywhere close to enough action or life-threatening drama for it to be classified as a spy novel. There is a hint of action at the end, but it is so short, and completely out of nowhere, that it just seemed like an afterthought. William is broken, but still manly and commanding. Elsie is more subtly broken, but able to confidently help William regain his life. Their romance is sweet and tender and moves at a nice pace. I recommended if you are looking for a solid historical romance but don’t mind a lack of action. WARNING: there is sex in this book, it is not erotica, but enough to be a steamy & hot adult romance. Please do not read if you are looking for something PG. Romance-5/5 Steaminess-4/5 Explicitness-3/5
July 3, 2018
Two Lonely Souls Become United!!
Elsie has lived alone for five years after her Father was murdered by the members of the Brethren.
William has been hurting since his wife was murdered and he was injured.
Edward, William's brother, has tried every healer he can until he meets Elsie and brings her to William.
Elsie has William completely befuddled to the point of not being able to think straight.
Ms. Caldwell never ceases to amaze me as she definitely kept me engrossed in this story.
Everyone of her books make me laugh and cry ugly tears - she just knows how to work your emotions.
I highly recommend this awesome story.
.
Elsie has lived alone for five years after her Father was murdered by the members of the Brethren.
William has been hurting since his wife was murdered and he was injured.
Edward, William's brother, has tried every healer he can until he meets Elsie and brings her to William.
Elsie has William completely befuddled to the point of not being able to think straight.
Ms. Caldwell never ceases to amaze me as she definitely kept me engrossed in this story.
Everyone of her books make me laugh and cry ugly tears - she just knows how to work your emotions.
I highly recommend this awesome story.
.
July 3, 2018
Secrets to Forgiveness
Christi has kept me glued...secrets...lies...truths and bringing Bear. Just couldn't stop reading once started wanting to see what secrets were being held, what truths were not being said Christi brought a new book alive with a twist...Bear a loving pet that's protective of his lady. Having conversations between pet and lady, then pet and Duke just enjoyed the whole time reading.
Glimpses of characters when they were younger, brother that cares and a few gruff and silent ones brought together a wonderful couple William and Elsie. Want do much to read more of them ...
Christi has kept me glued...secrets...lies...truths and bringing Bear. Just couldn't stop reading once started wanting to see what secrets were being held, what truths were not being said Christi brought a new book alive with a twist...Bear a loving pet that's protective of his lady. Having conversations between pet and lady, then pet and Duke just enjoyed the whole time reading.
Glimpses of characters when they were younger, brother that cares and a few gruff and silent ones brought together a wonderful couple William and Elsie. Want do much to read more of them ...
July 10, 2018
Her Duke of Secrets
The END of Christi's books are both good and bad! One, the story ends, two the story ends so good!! All her stories are of love, yes, but they're also about healing! Proof of the fact that people can change! That's why I EAGERLY anticipate the next and the next from Christi! Her heroines are soft and strong. Her heroes are the same. I feel, smell and see her visions and yearn to visit, taste the food and KNOW her characters personally! She is THAT good! I can't wait to read Leo's story..
The END of Christi's books are both good and bad! One, the story ends, two the story ends so good!! All her stories are of love, yes, but they're also about healing! Proof of the fact that people can change! That's why I EAGERLY anticipate the next and the next from Christi! Her heroines are soft and strong. Her heroes are the same. I feel, smell and see her visions and yearn to visit, taste the food and KNOW her characters personally! She is THAT good! I can't wait to read Leo's story..
July 4, 2018
Another fantastic story from Christi. We were introduced to William in My Lady of Deception, set 2 decades ago and then again in the Lady Who Loved Him 20 years later. This story takes place 6 months or so after My Lady of Deception. William has gone from being a strong, aloof leader of the Bretheren to a broken scarred man. Elsie hates the Bretheren for what they let happen to her father 5 years ago but then William’s brother Edward comes seeking help to heal William. She doesn’t want to help but gets bullied into going back to London to meet our broken hero. This is a beautifully crafted story of how 2 lonely, damaged people find common ground and love. Of course there is the baddy who tries to come between them but is thwarted and the most wonderful secondary character, Bear! I keep thinking Christi’s book can’t get better then she comes out with another one that’s brilliant. I have read many regency authors, she truly is the best around. I cannot recommend her books enough.
July 3, 2018
Once again, Christi Caldwell has outdone herself. This story was both heart0wrenching and heart-warming. Two damaged people come together to help heal each other even as they learn about healing themselves. It shows that physical pain is real but mental and emotional pain is almost more real.
Just be warned that tears may come before you finally reach the Happily Ever After that these two characters deserve.
Just be warned that tears may come before you finally reach the Happily Ever After that these two characters deserve.
July 7, 2018
Another wonderful journey.
Christi Caldwell's ability to touch on emotions often buried is amazing. She is takes you on a journey with her characters leaving you drained and uplifted at the same time.
With Elsie and William, we are shown two hurting people, each struggling to find peace. Ms. Caldwell gently draws us into the discovery that love has the power to heal, if you allow it in.
4.5 Stars
Christi Caldwell's ability to touch on emotions often buried is amazing. She is takes you on a journey with her characters leaving you drained and uplifted at the same time.
With Elsie and William, we are shown two hurting people, each struggling to find peace. Ms. Caldwell gently draws us into the discovery that love has the power to heal, if you allow it in.
4.5 Stars
July 19, 2018
I love Chritis writing and characterisation, this is so refreshing and lovely, my main gripe is I felt the time period covered was short and there wasn't quite enough action. It was a lovely read and I finished it super fast because I was enjoying it.
I would of liked it to have developed over more time, with some more sub plots . One of my favourite authors and I must say Elsie is a gem of a heroine. So mixed feelings 3.5 stars, might of made it to 4 with an epilogue.
I would of liked it to have developed over more time, with some more sub plots . One of my favourite authors and I must say Elsie is a gem of a heroine. So mixed feelings 3.5 stars, might of made it to 4 with an epilogue.
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