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The Duke's Wayward Ward
When Lady Emma Percival's father dies, leaving her penniless and alone, she fears that she will end up on the streets. Help is at hand, albeit from an unlikely source, when it transpires that her father has appointed his greatest enemy to be her guardian. The Duke of Liscarroll is a cold-hearted brute whom Emma spars with at every turn, but soon their angry altercations turn to something else entirely...
Peter William Brazil, Sixth Duke of Liscarroll, finds himself strong-armed by his mother into accepting Lady Emma as his ward. Though he is loath to have anything to do with the Percival family, he does want to get his hands on the priceless manuscript the late Earl bequeathed him in his will, on condition that he finds Lady Emma a suitable husband. Peter fully intends to have Lady Emma married off and out of his house within a fortnight, but there's something about the fiery, young lady that sparks his interest and soon he's not sure that he wants to let her go at all.
When someone attempts to shoot him and the ton label Emma as the prime suspect, Peter knows that he must clear her name before he makes her his bride. The only problem is, there's more than one person with reason to want him dead, and his bride-to-be is less than enamoured with the idea of becoming his...
Can these two warring enemies find the culprit and a happily ever after? Find out in the sweet, Regency Read!
136 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 24, 2018
801 people are currently reading
174 people want to read
About the author
Claudia Stone
34 books143 followersClaudia Stone was born in South Africa but moved to Plymouth as a young girl. Having trained as an actress at RADA, she moved to New York to pursue her dream of acting on Broadway in 1988. She never did see her name in lights, but she did meet a wonderful Irishman called Conal who whisked her away to the wilds of Kerry, where she has lived ever since.
Claudia and Conal have three children, a dairy farm and a boisterous, black lab called Buddy. When she has any time left over, Claudia enjoys reading Regency as well as writing it.
You can also connect with Claudia on Facebook:
fb.me/ClaudiaStoneAuthor
Claudia and Conal have three children, a dairy farm and a boisterous, black lab called Buddy. When she has any time left over, Claudia enjoys reading Regency as well as writing it.
You can also connect with Claudia on Facebook:
fb.me/ClaudiaStoneAuthor
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
October 8, 2018
This is a very engaging story. Two feuding families and in the end their children are thrust together. Neither wants it but the will demands it. The story is filled with wonderful Victorian humor, witty remarks and sarcastic statements. It was a real treat!
Miss Emma is strong-willed and very beautiful yet smart young lady. She understands that if she wants to live in relative comfort she must find a husband. Yes, the expectations should not be too high but all she wishes is love.
Peter is a duke, and as all dukes are he is intimidating, brooding and prone to staring his opponents into submission. He is never wrong, and his life is always in order. That is until he is informed that his former arch enemy has entrusted his daughter to be his ward. What does he care who she marries - anyone with a pulse will do! But as soon as he sees her, hears her voice and sees laughter in her eyes... at HIM, he is smitten even though denies it.
They parry back and forth, they test each others temper and they fall in love. It should be glorious time but someone is out for Peter. And somehow as it always happens in Victorian times everybody points finger at Emma! It's funny and the only way to save her, Peter comes up with an engagement plan! The conversations between Peter and Emma were hilarious! I loved them together.
The name of the killer was a mystery till the end. I suspected totally different person and was glad that it turned out differently. The rescue was funny and unconventional and I enjoyed that! Note: There was no intimacy at all except couple of kisses, and mention of "parts", subtle hints. But the book was so entertaining that I could not put it down. I highly recommend it!
Miss Emma is strong-willed and very beautiful yet smart young lady. She understands that if she wants to live in relative comfort she must find a husband. Yes, the expectations should not be too high but all she wishes is love.
Peter is a duke, and as all dukes are he is intimidating, brooding and prone to staring his opponents into submission. He is never wrong, and his life is always in order. That is until he is informed that his former arch enemy has entrusted his daughter to be his ward. What does he care who she marries - anyone with a pulse will do! But as soon as he sees her, hears her voice and sees laughter in her eyes... at HIM, he is smitten even though denies it.
They parry back and forth, they test each others temper and they fall in love. It should be glorious time but someone is out for Peter. And somehow as it always happens in Victorian times everybody points finger at Emma! It's funny and the only way to save her, Peter comes up with an engagement plan! The conversations between Peter and Emma were hilarious! I loved them together.
The name of the killer was a mystery till the end. I suspected totally different person and was glad that it turned out differently. The rescue was funny and unconventional and I enjoyed that! Note: There was no intimacy at all except couple of kisses, and mention of "parts", subtle hints. But the book was so entertaining that I could not put it down. I highly recommend it!
August 17, 2020
The H was arrogant, rude and unpleasant. The h was better, but the best person was the H's mother and even she is under developed. While she is ward, she's compliant and a little sad. But no-one notices her as a person, until H announces he's going to marry her, out of the blue. Nothing connects the characters to the plot. DNF at 64%.
December 9, 2021
Light, quick and fun. Although Peter was brusque, aloof and tried his best to ignore his attraction to Emma, he was sweet to her and treated her well. Emma was outspoken and bold which both annoyed and intrigued Peter but made for very entertaining conversation & banter between them. They’re growing feelings was a believable one and their HEA was cute.
Content: Clean, kissing only
Content: Clean, kissing only
May 9, 2021
I'm sorry to say that this one didn't work for me. Not only was the hero breaking things off with his latest paramour at the beginning of this story (that always squicks me out), but the heroine is struck dumb over and over again with her "body's visceral reaction" to his handsomeness. The OW popped up in almost every chapter, and the mystery was also underwhelming. At least it was short.
February 18, 2020
What better revenge to take on one's enemy than to make him your daughter's guardian? The Duke of Liscarroll likes to think that he can anticipate the eventuality of all situations. However, from the day that Miss Emma Percival comes into his life, everything changes. The first thing Peter finds out is that his mother is on Emma's side and proves it by taking the young lady under her wing. Peter then discovers that Emma is far more alluring than he could have anticipated. When the situation becomes complicated, Peter doesn't know whom to trust and as the story comes to a conclusion, the suspense also accelerates. The novelle is clean and generally well written with an entertaining heroine who has a way of getting under the hero's skin and making him question everything he has set store in. The book is a standalone and comes to a happy conclusion.
September 29, 2018
Enjoyable Read
This is the first book I have read by this author, and I must say I thoroughly enjoyed it. It was well written, and an easily read book. I loved the main characters, particularly the Duke of Liscarrol who starts off as a staid and calculating person and during the story is brought 'up to scratch' as it was termed by his ward Emma Percival, I loved their banter which at times was very funny. Also funny was that the Duke's mother often referred to him as 'sweet pea' imagine a Duke standing being called that!!
There were the usual baddie and of course the snipping mistress thrown in for good measure, all in all it was a very entertaining read and I would thoroughly recommend it.
This is the first book I have read by this author, and I must say I thoroughly enjoyed it. It was well written, and an easily read book. I loved the main characters, particularly the Duke of Liscarrol who starts off as a staid and calculating person and during the story is brought 'up to scratch' as it was termed by his ward Emma Percival, I loved their banter which at times was very funny. Also funny was that the Duke's mother often referred to him as 'sweet pea' imagine a Duke standing being called that!!
There were the usual baddie and of course the snipping mistress thrown in for good measure, all in all it was a very entertaining read and I would thoroughly recommend it.
October 6, 2018
Top marks from me, it was a good story with great characters. I missed Ms Stone's usual lengthy backgrounds and epilogues, which I always think set-up her stories so well, but the mystery was very good. It kept me guessing until the end. I am looking forward to her next one more though, based on the sneak preview at the end.
September 27, 2018
A well-written story of danger, suspense, drama, a villain. I enjoyed reading Lady Emma Percival and Peter William Brazil, Sixth Duke of Liscarroll's story. I found myself smiling at some of the things that happen during the book. What a surprise the Duke gets at the end! I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 29, 2018
Keeps you guessing
I did so enjoy this book, the twists and turns took you to a wonderful ending. Can't wait to read your next book.
I did so enjoy this book, the twists and turns took you to a wonderful ending. Can't wait to read your next book.
September 30, 2018
Wayward Ward
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I love the mystery woven into the love story. Someone is trying to kill the duke.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I love the mystery woven into the love story. Someone is trying to kill the duke.
October 30, 2018
Great story! I enjoyed the continual sarcastic banter between Emma and the Duke. In a time of excessive manners among the aristocracy, it was fun to watch Emma stand up to the Duke and not be intimidated by him. The mystery intertwined through out the story adds to the intrigue of the story. I did not guess the villain until the very end. All in all a good read. I did not give 5 stars as I felt the end was a little rushed and the jump too great. A few occasional editing errors as well.
November 1, 2018
Entertaing and keeps you wondering for a while as to who the thief really is. I think Claudia Stone is one of the best romance writer around.
November 26, 2018
Eh...
This had potential, but I figured out the third quickly. Also, no build-up for the "love" between Peter and Emma. No love scenes. The summary on the back made this story seem more appealing than it was.
This had potential, but I figured out the third quickly. Also, no build-up for the "love" between Peter and Emma. No love scenes. The summary on the back made this story seem more appealing than it was.
October 19, 2018
Well writen love story with added bonus of suspense
I gave this story 5 stars because it was not your usual Regency love story.
I.like the bonus of suspense it was just enough and I never expected the villain.
I gave this story 5 stars because it was not your usual Regency love story.
I.like the bonus of suspense it was just enough and I never expected the villain.
July 10, 2019
Duration: 5 hrs 39 mins.
The Duke's Wayward Ward by Claudia Stone
Audible Summary: When Lady Emma Percival's father dies, leaving her penniless and alone, she fears that she will end up on the streets. Help is at hand, albeit from an unlikely source, when it transpires that her father has appointed his greatest enemy to be her guardian. The Duke of Liscarroll is a cold-hearted brute whom Emma spars with at every turn, but soon their angry altercations turn to something else entirely....
Peter William Brazil, Sixth Duke of Liscarroll, finds himself strong-armed by his mother into accepting Lady Emma as his ward. Though he is loath to have anything to do with the Percival family, he does want to get his hands on the priceless manuscript the late Earl bequeathed him in his will, on condition that he finds Lady Emma a suitable husband. Peter fully intends to have Lady Emma married off and out of his house within a fortnight, but there's something about the fiery, young lady that sparks his interest, and soon he's not sure that he wants to let her go at all.
When someone attempts to shoot him and the ton label Emma as the prime suspect, Peter knows that he must clear her name before he makes her his bride. The only problem is, there's more than one person with reason to want him dead, and his bride-to-be is less than enamoured with the idea of becoming his....
Can these two warring enemies find the culprit and a happily ever after? Find out in the sweet, Regency listen!
The Duke's Wayward Ward is, in many ways, a classic 'enemies to lovers' Regency romance. Emma and Liscarroll are both unhappy about the arrangement which throws them into each other's path so unceremoniously, but it is clear from the beginning that they are very well suited. As with most novels of this type, the question is not so much 'will they or won't they get together' but 'when and how'. Despite Regencies' adherence to a fairly standard formula, it is the journey that makes them interesting, and it is for that reason that I was so disappointed to see the Publisher's Summary give so much away. It would have been much more enjoyable if I had not known so many of the key developments from the start.
I liked the Duke of Liscarroll immensely, as I did his mother, Georgette, the Dowager Duchess. It was very disconcerting to have her referred to as "Georgette throughout the novel, instead of by her title. It was so informal and unusual that it kept pulling me out of the period. Her relationship with her son was a little unconventional but very entertaining, and she brought a lot of humour to this audiobook.
It took me a little longer to warm to Emma, as her personality was not as gregarious as that of the Brazils. It also took me a little while to really feel as though she was feisty enough for Liscarroll, and as a couple I didn't think the tension quite built properly between them. They didn't spar as well as was necessary to introduce the required antagonism and the 'threats of violence' were a tad clumsily set up. There were so many moments which I really enjoyed, but I was never quite convinced that they were really opponents. Mr Darcy and Elizabeth Bennett are the best example of Regency enemies-to-lovers, but Liscarroll and Emma's annoyance with each other felt too contrived. In fact, much of this book felt very contrived, with everything falling into place very neatly time and again. I think it would have been better had it been longer, and the relationship between Peter and Emma allowed to be a slower burn, with a few more bumps in the road for them.
There are lots of period references which help anchor this audiobook to the Regency era, but much of the grammar is not of the period. (The phrase "as she had introduced herself as" appears more than once), but it retains a fair sense of the time. It would have been better had each character not taken a turn to be "apoplectic with rage", but we all have our favourite turns of phrase.
My biggest gripe came when Liscarroll was shot. Emma is a Lady, which means she should be accomplished with a needle. I'm a terrible stitcher but even I have never managed to prick my thumb so terribly that the resulting gush of blood makes it look like I've killed someone. Even my Domestic Science teacher didn't envision such an accident, and she spent half of every lesson convinced we were going to impale ourselves upon the electric sewing machines and lose an arm. Had she cut herself a little more dramatically, perhaps on sharp embroidery scissors, then it may not have made me laugh at such a dramatic moment.
The narrator, Duke and Duchess DeFoix, did a very nice job of their dual narration. He voiced the male parts, and she took on all the female passages.
I loved Duke DeFoix's narration, and found his rich, smooth voice very pleasant to listen to. I'd have happily listened to him narrate the whole book, but he worked well with Duchess DeFoix. The only moment upon which they clashed was the pronunciation of Lady Castlereagh's name, which was unfortunate.
I think, perhaps, that Duchess DeFoix does not have a natural British accent, as many of her pronunciations were unusual and her pattern of speech was reminiscent of the deliberate, overly-enunciated way Americans tend to read in RP. (Mistakes such as "portmanteau" being pronounced as PORT-mon-TOE not port-MAN-toe, and "audience" and "audibly" as ODD-ee-ence and ODD-ih-bull stuck out the most.) Her accent was very good, but his was far more natural and comfortable, which did give his narration the superior edge. I thought Duchess DeFoix did very well to convey both Emma's youthfulness and the Dowager's experience, with her range of voices being very good, and nicely varied.
For all its little niggles, The Duke's Wayward Ward was a nice, easy, romance to curl up with in the evening before bed. I enjoyed it for being lightweight and often lighthearted, and would happily have spent far longer in the company of Liscarroll and the Dowager. I will certainly listen to other Regencies by Claudia Stone, especially if they were narrated by Duke and Duchess DeFoix.
I would recommend it to anyone who wants a nice, quick Regency listen with a HEA.
*I received this audiobook free of charge in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
If you liked this review then please join me for more!
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The Duke's Wayward Ward by Claudia Stone
Audible Summary: When Lady Emma Percival's father dies, leaving her penniless and alone, she fears that she will end up on the streets. Help is at hand, albeit from an unlikely source, when it transpires that her father has appointed his greatest enemy to be her guardian. The Duke of Liscarroll is a cold-hearted brute whom Emma spars with at every turn, but soon their angry altercations turn to something else entirely....
Peter William Brazil, Sixth Duke of Liscarroll, finds himself strong-armed by his mother into accepting Lady Emma as his ward. Though he is loath to have anything to do with the Percival family, he does want to get his hands on the priceless manuscript the late Earl bequeathed him in his will, on condition that he finds Lady Emma a suitable husband. Peter fully intends to have Lady Emma married off and out of his house within a fortnight, but there's something about the fiery, young lady that sparks his interest, and soon he's not sure that he wants to let her go at all.
When someone attempts to shoot him and the ton label Emma as the prime suspect, Peter knows that he must clear her name before he makes her his bride. The only problem is, there's more than one person with reason to want him dead, and his bride-to-be is less than enamoured with the idea of becoming his....
Can these two warring enemies find the culprit and a happily ever after? Find out in the sweet, Regency listen!
The Duke's Wayward Ward is, in many ways, a classic 'enemies to lovers' Regency romance. Emma and Liscarroll are both unhappy about the arrangement which throws them into each other's path so unceremoniously, but it is clear from the beginning that they are very well suited. As with most novels of this type, the question is not so much 'will they or won't they get together' but 'when and how'. Despite Regencies' adherence to a fairly standard formula, it is the journey that makes them interesting, and it is for that reason that I was so disappointed to see the Publisher's Summary give so much away. It would have been much more enjoyable if I had not known so many of the key developments from the start.
I liked the Duke of Liscarroll immensely, as I did his mother, Georgette, the Dowager Duchess. It was very disconcerting to have her referred to as "Georgette throughout the novel, instead of by her title. It was so informal and unusual that it kept pulling me out of the period. Her relationship with her son was a little unconventional but very entertaining, and she brought a lot of humour to this audiobook.
It took me a little longer to warm to Emma, as her personality was not as gregarious as that of the Brazils. It also took me a little while to really feel as though she was feisty enough for Liscarroll, and as a couple I didn't think the tension quite built properly between them. They didn't spar as well as was necessary to introduce the required antagonism and the 'threats of violence' were a tad clumsily set up. There were so many moments which I really enjoyed, but I was never quite convinced that they were really opponents. Mr Darcy and Elizabeth Bennett are the best example of Regency enemies-to-lovers, but Liscarroll and Emma's annoyance with each other felt too contrived. In fact, much of this book felt very contrived, with everything falling into place very neatly time and again. I think it would have been better had it been longer, and the relationship between Peter and Emma allowed to be a slower burn, with a few more bumps in the road for them.
There are lots of period references which help anchor this audiobook to the Regency era, but much of the grammar is not of the period. (The phrase "as she had introduced herself as" appears more than once), but it retains a fair sense of the time. It would have been better had each character not taken a turn to be "apoplectic with rage", but we all have our favourite turns of phrase.
My biggest gripe came when Liscarroll was shot. Emma is a Lady, which means she should be accomplished with a needle. I'm a terrible stitcher but even I have never managed to prick my thumb so terribly that the resulting gush of blood makes it look like I've killed someone. Even my Domestic Science teacher didn't envision such an accident, and she spent half of every lesson convinced we were going to impale ourselves upon the electric sewing machines and lose an arm. Had she cut herself a little more dramatically, perhaps on sharp embroidery scissors, then it may not have made me laugh at such a dramatic moment.
The narrator, Duke and Duchess DeFoix, did a very nice job of their dual narration. He voiced the male parts, and she took on all the female passages.
I loved Duke DeFoix's narration, and found his rich, smooth voice very pleasant to listen to. I'd have happily listened to him narrate the whole book, but he worked well with Duchess DeFoix. The only moment upon which they clashed was the pronunciation of Lady Castlereagh's name, which was unfortunate.
I think, perhaps, that Duchess DeFoix does not have a natural British accent, as many of her pronunciations were unusual and her pattern of speech was reminiscent of the deliberate, overly-enunciated way Americans tend to read in RP. (Mistakes such as "portmanteau" being pronounced as PORT-mon-TOE not port-MAN-toe, and "audience" and "audibly" as ODD-ee-ence and ODD-ih-bull stuck out the most.) Her accent was very good, but his was far more natural and comfortable, which did give his narration the superior edge. I thought Duchess DeFoix did very well to convey both Emma's youthfulness and the Dowager's experience, with her range of voices being very good, and nicely varied.
For all its little niggles, The Duke's Wayward Ward was a nice, easy, romance to curl up with in the evening before bed. I enjoyed it for being lightweight and often lighthearted, and would happily have spent far longer in the company of Liscarroll and the Dowager. I will certainly listen to other Regencies by Claudia Stone, especially if they were narrated by Duke and Duchess DeFoix.
I would recommend it to anyone who wants a nice, quick Regency listen with a HEA.
*I received this audiobook free of charge in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
If you liked this review then please join me for more!
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July 11, 2019
Actual Rating 3.50
I ended up liking this book a bit more than I thought, but it had its issues. I never realized what a sucker I am for historical romance. I love a headstrong woman and I got exactly that with Lady Emma Percival. I liked the banter between her and Peter. The man made tons of mistakes when it came to her, but he really was trying to be what Emma deserved. There was some mystery with someone trying to kill Peter and I liked that aspect of the story a bit. My only issue was with the fact that I didn't really feel a connection between Peter and Emma. I am interested to read more books by Claudia Stone.
I ended up liking this book a bit more than I thought, but it had its issues. I never realized what a sucker I am for historical romance. I love a headstrong woman and I got exactly that with Lady Emma Percival. I liked the banter between her and Peter. The man made tons of mistakes when it came to her, but he really was trying to be what Emma deserved. There was some mystery with someone trying to kill Peter and I liked that aspect of the story a bit. My only issue was with the fact that I didn't really feel a connection between Peter and Emma. I am interested to read more books by Claudia Stone.
December 5, 2018
Very nice.
It must get difficult for authors to keep coming up with new plots but somehow they do. This book is fairly standard but for the villain and the mystery. A lot of red herrings are thrown out but it all comes together in the end. It’s a pity that there were so many proofing errors to spoil it.
It must get difficult for authors to keep coming up with new plots but somehow they do. This book is fairly standard but for the villain and the mystery. A lot of red herrings are thrown out but it all comes together in the end. It’s a pity that there were so many proofing errors to spoil it.
October 18, 2018
Eh
It was a bit disjointed. Too quick from sworn family enemies to 'in love'.
Repetitive use of the catch-phrase of the time was increasingly annoying.
It was a bit disjointed. Too quick from sworn family enemies to 'in love'.
Repetitive use of the catch-phrase of the time was increasingly annoying.
October 26, 2020
I've read quite a few books by this author now, and I have to say that this one definitely wasn't one of my favorites. While I enjoyed the banter between these two, I never really bought into them having romantic feelings for one another. In fact, they seemed to go from one extreme to the other very quickly. This was helped by the fact that Peter declares in the middle of White's that he is betrothed to Emma without even discussing the fact with her prior - in fact by this point in the book they were still "enemies". I also had trouble with the fact that he seemed to just blurt it out for no reason. Yes, there was some suspicion about her having tried to kill him, but obviously once the real culprit was caught, she would have been fine. He then makes things worse by actually snooping through her things due to a whispered word in his ear from his former mistress.
And the poor cat! What an unnecessary death. The author could have chosen to have the animal become sick, or even had an unsuspecting servant eat the food and fall ill (I like animals more than most people, what can I say)?
I also had a bit of trouble believing the ease in which Emma's rescue came about. How fortunate that the Dowager Duchess decided to stay in her carriage across the street to give Emma and Peter some "privacy". Things like that just weren't done, engaged couple or not. And as much as I loved the Dowager Duchess? I really wished she would stop calling her grown 30-something year old son sweet-pea. I would also have liked to have seen Peter come riding to Emma's rescue to make their reuniting more sweeter than what it was.
Even with these things, I'm sure others will enjoy this story more than I did. Plus it's a sweet romance with only a handful of kisses (if that) being mentioned which I know appeals to some readers. I will continue reading more from this author!
And the poor cat! What an unnecessary death. The author could have chosen to have the animal become sick, or even had an unsuspecting servant eat the food and fall ill (I like animals more than most people, what can I say)?
I also had a bit of trouble believing the ease in which Emma's rescue came about. How fortunate that the Dowager Duchess decided to stay in her carriage across the street to give Emma and Peter some "privacy". Things like that just weren't done, engaged couple or not. And as much as I loved the Dowager Duchess? I really wished she would stop calling her grown 30-something year old son sweet-pea. I would also have liked to have seen Peter come riding to Emma's rescue to make their reuniting more sweeter than what it was.
Even with these things, I'm sure others will enjoy this story more than I did. Plus it's a sweet romance with only a handful of kisses (if that) being mentioned which I know appeals to some readers. I will continue reading more from this author!
March 7, 2020
This is my review of the audio version as posted on Audible:
It's another book by Ms Stone that I really enjoyed:)
When we meet Lady Emma Percival and Peter Brazil, the Duke of Liscarroll, for the first time, they seem to be like fire and ice, with nothing in common and the background of a family feud... Yet appearances do deceive and with every page/minute of listening we wait more and more impatiently for them to finally find their happily ever after. The plot is deceptively simple at first, but then unexpected events complicate it enough for us to feel the tension and anxiety along with our H and h. The background characters are colourful and memorable (I especially liked Peter's mother, the Duchess:)) and the mystery behind the murder attempts well developed. What I also like a lot is that it's not really the 'love at first sight' kind of story, but that we see love between Emma and Peter grow and mature and we witness their doubts, uncertainties and fears about the other's feelings - it's so much closer to real life that the 'insta-love' kinds of romances...:)
It's the second book I listened to in the interpretation of Duke and Duchess DeFoix (the previous one was also written by Ms Stone) and I will repeat what I already wrote once: I like the male-female narration mirroring the male-female point of view chapter pattern of the book, it is very well done, with all the voices of individual characters sounding really natural. I also liked the pace of the couple's reading, it was just about right, no need to speed it up (as I usually do). Generally it's a great interpretation of the book.
DISCLAIMER: I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
It's another book by Ms Stone that I really enjoyed:)
When we meet Lady Emma Percival and Peter Brazil, the Duke of Liscarroll, for the first time, they seem to be like fire and ice, with nothing in common and the background of a family feud... Yet appearances do deceive and with every page/minute of listening we wait more and more impatiently for them to finally find their happily ever after. The plot is deceptively simple at first, but then unexpected events complicate it enough for us to feel the tension and anxiety along with our H and h. The background characters are colourful and memorable (I especially liked Peter's mother, the Duchess:)) and the mystery behind the murder attempts well developed. What I also like a lot is that it's not really the 'love at first sight' kind of story, but that we see love between Emma and Peter grow and mature and we witness their doubts, uncertainties and fears about the other's feelings - it's so much closer to real life that the 'insta-love' kinds of romances...:)
It's the second book I listened to in the interpretation of Duke and Duchess DeFoix (the previous one was also written by Ms Stone) and I will repeat what I already wrote once: I like the male-female narration mirroring the male-female point of view chapter pattern of the book, it is very well done, with all the voices of individual characters sounding really natural. I also liked the pace of the couple's reading, it was just about right, no need to speed it up (as I usually do). Generally it's a great interpretation of the book.
DISCLAIMER: I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
June 4, 2019
Peter Brazil, the Duke of Liscarroll, is shocked when the will of his father's enemy is read. Peter has been appointed as the guardian of the man's daughter, Emma Percival. Peter is determined to marry Emma off as soon as possible, but when he meets his young ward, no man seems quite worthy of her. But matters are complicated when someone tries to kill him, and all fingers are pointed at Emma.
This was a sweet clean read with great characters. Emma and Peter spark and spar with each other, and it's all a ton of fun. Peter seems a bit heartless at first but it soon becomes obvious that he's just hopeless at courting. He can flirt with the experienced ladies of the ton but when it comes to winning the heart of the innocent yet feisty Emma, he's a lost cause. And Emma is at her best when she stands up to him. Throw in a meddling and adorable Dowager Duchess and this one gets five stars from me.
The narration was great, as always. the male and female narrators perform each chapter from Emma and Peter's point of view and also perform the male or female speaking parts. It's seamless and immerses you right into the story. I requested an audiobook, and I'm voluntarily leaving a review.
This was a sweet clean read with great characters. Emma and Peter spark and spar with each other, and it's all a ton of fun. Peter seems a bit heartless at first but it soon becomes obvious that he's just hopeless at courting. He can flirt with the experienced ladies of the ton but when it comes to winning the heart of the innocent yet feisty Emma, he's a lost cause. And Emma is at her best when she stands up to him. Throw in a meddling and adorable Dowager Duchess and this one gets five stars from me.
The narration was great, as always. the male and female narrators perform each chapter from Emma and Peter's point of view and also perform the male or female speaking parts. It's seamless and immerses you right into the story. I requested an audiobook, and I'm voluntarily leaving a review.
September 26, 2018
I'm so excited that The Duke's Wayward Ward is now available on Amazon! This standalone read features two of my favourite types of characters- a strong female and a grumpy alpha-duke! Lady Emma Percival is forced by circumstances beyond her control, into accepting the Duke of Liscarroll as her guardian. The pair, given their turbulent family history, clash at every turn! But soon the sparks of anger turn to something else entirely...
Peter William Brazil, Sixth Duke of Liscarroll, had not intended to take Lady Emma as a ward, but sadly his formidable mother had other ideas. When the sparky young woman arrives at his home, he is instantly attracted to her, but resolves to have her married off as soon as possible, so he can go back to his life as a rake.
When someone tries to shoot the Duke, it is Emma who is the prime suspect! Peter knows that he must clear her name, and then convince her to become his bride...but can she be convinced?
This sweet Regency Read has a really fun cosy mystery at its heart, a romance that will leave you more than satisfied, and a guaranteed HEA!
Peter William Brazil, Sixth Duke of Liscarroll, had not intended to take Lady Emma as a ward, but sadly his formidable mother had other ideas. When the sparky young woman arrives at his home, he is instantly attracted to her, but resolves to have her married off as soon as possible, so he can go back to his life as a rake.
When someone tries to shoot the Duke, it is Emma who is the prime suspect! Peter knows that he must clear her name, and then convince her to become his bride...but can she be convinced?
This sweet Regency Read has a really fun cosy mystery at its heart, a romance that will leave you more than satisfied, and a guaranteed HEA!
June 18, 2019
This story had its moments of romance and falling in love between two lovely and interesting people, Lady Emma and Peter, sixth Duke of Liscarroll. There is also a potential murderer, a delightful mother, an ex mistress and so on, all of whom help make this story into a page turner.
I loved how the romance almost didn't happen because the two main characters didn't believe it was possible and also because of what was happening in the story, but it did happen or we wouldn't have had such a delightful book to read or listen to.
It is well written by Claudia Stone and very competently narrated by the Duke & Duchess DeFoix. Good teamwork between all three parties!
I requested and listened to an audiobook version and my review above is unbiased and given voluntarily.
I loved how the romance almost didn't happen because the two main characters didn't believe it was possible and also because of what was happening in the story, but it did happen or we wouldn't have had such a delightful book to read or listen to.
It is well written by Claudia Stone and very competently narrated by the Duke & Duchess DeFoix. Good teamwork between all three parties!
I requested and listened to an audiobook version and my review above is unbiased and given voluntarily.
August 1, 2023
This was an adventure and a great deal of fun. A duke and an earl had a decades-long competition and feud. When the earl died, he offered the duke something his family had wanted for many years -- an original manuscript. The only catch was that the duke had to take his daughter as his ward (until her marriage). The earl was smart because he must have realized that his heir would not take good care of his daughter, Emma. Duke Peter had the resources to make sure Emma made a good match.
Before long, Peter is shot in his own home, and he looks for the culprit. Unfortunately, the list of enemies is long. It may also include Emma, horrified that she had to reside with the Duke and his mother. This was most enjoyable.
Before long, Peter is shot in his own home, and he looks for the culprit. Unfortunately, the list of enemies is long. It may also include Emma, horrified that she had to reside with the Duke and his mother. This was most enjoyable.
May 15, 2020
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request, and have voluntarily left this review. This is not my usual type of book, but it was a lot of fun. Emma, orphaned but at marrying age, fate is left in the hands of her father's worst enemy when her deceased father appoints him her guardian in his will. The Duke's mother decides it will be her duty to find the poor girl a husband at her son's expense. The Duke's perfect world is turned upside down. Between the well written characters, the fast moving plot and the narration that brings it you life, you'll keep listening longer than you intended.
November 23, 2018
Quick and interesting.
Quick as in full of sharp retorts, I should say. And don't we all like a witty and attentive dowager duchess?
The plot here was quite intriguing with plenty type of red herrings.
But Emma and Peter's burgeoning relationship was quite entertaining.
More could have been given to the rivalry between their two families and possibly the reasons why Emma became Peter's ward, since I think this was forgotten. Surely her father had some irony sewn into his plan.
Nevertheless, a good read.
Quick as in full of sharp retorts, I should say. And don't we all like a witty and attentive dowager duchess?
The plot here was quite intriguing with plenty type of red herrings.
But Emma and Peter's burgeoning relationship was quite entertaining.
More could have been given to the rivalry between their two families and possibly the reasons why Emma became Peter's ward, since I think this was forgotten. Surely her father had some irony sewn into his plan.
Nevertheless, a good read.
November 7, 2018
Dukes Ward
Emma and Peter start off on the wrong foot. He takes her in as his ward only because that’s what his mother wanted. As they clash together they find they have some chemistry. As someone tries to kill Peter he has to convince people Emma did’t do it. So he announces their engagement. And they proceed to try and ferret out the perp. by having a house party. I’ll leave the rest for you to read!
Emma and Peter start off on the wrong foot. He takes her in as his ward only because that’s what his mother wanted. As they clash together they find they have some chemistry. As someone tries to kill Peter he has to convince people Emma did’t do it. So he announces their engagement. And they proceed to try and ferret out the perp. by having a house party. I’ll leave the rest for you to read!
January 5, 2021
Enjoyable
A decent story that does not match the title. There is very little, if anything at all, that is ’wayward’ about Emma. Peter’s character rather uneven. The best one is Georgette who is highly amusing.
The writing is littered with grammatical and punctuation errors, as well as phrases and colloquialisms totally out of place. Can I suggest the author find a much better Editor? That would have moved this up to 4 stars.
All that said, I enjoyed the story. 🙂
A decent story that does not match the title. There is very little, if anything at all, that is ’wayward’ about Emma. Peter’s character rather uneven. The best one is Georgette who is highly amusing.
The writing is littered with grammatical and punctuation errors, as well as phrases and colloquialisms totally out of place. Can I suggest the author find a much better Editor? That would have moved this up to 4 stars.
All that said, I enjoyed the story. 🙂
January 22, 2019
Great story!
This is a great story! It is funny and sweet! This book had me smiling and laughing, to myself. It was great.Peter was so sure that he would marry Emma off to the first man with a pulse😂 But he fell in love, with her, and she with him. A very happy ending ❤️❣️
Thank you!
This is a great story! It is funny and sweet! This book had me smiling and laughing, to myself. It was great.Peter was so sure that he would marry Emma off to the first man with a pulse😂 But he fell in love, with her, and she with him. A very happy ending ❤️❣️
Thank you!
April 23, 2021
A delightful romp!
This is the kind of book I can read over and over again. It is short, funny and sweet. Peter and Emma make a delightful couple. The tension between them was perfect and the kisses were spot on. This is the kind story you could turn into a movie on the Hallmark Channel. 😊
This is the kind of book I can read over and over again. It is short, funny and sweet. Peter and Emma make a delightful couple. The tension between them was perfect and the kisses were spot on. This is the kind story you could turn into a movie on the Hallmark Channel. 😊
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