What do you think?
Rate this book
The Unusual Story of the Silent Duchess
New beginnings hurt, but sometimes they are worth every teardrop...
Strange things come with the storm, things that can change one's life forever. On just such a dark night, a mysterious voiceless girl arrives at the doorstep of the powerful Duke of Rutland, Neil Arnold. Thanks to her, his gloomy soul will see its first sunny days after a very long time.
Her silence, though, hides secrets, and whatever evil force made her run for her life that dreadful stormy night is coming after her...
The Duke, while still trying to find his way back to happiness, will have to find the strength to protect not only the mysterious stranger that stole his heart but also his innocent daughter. He can't afford to lose the ones he loves for the second time. But the danger is resting closer than he thinks as no one can be trusted.
Strange things come with the storm, things that can change one's life forever. On just such a dark night, a mysterious voiceless girl arrives at the doorstep of the powerful Duke of Rutland, Neil Arnold. Thanks to her, his gloomy soul will see its first sunny days after a very long time.
Her silence, though, hides secrets, and whatever evil force made her run for her life that dreadful stormy night is coming after her...
The Duke, while still trying to find his way back to happiness, will have to find the strength to protect not only the mysterious stranger that stole his heart but also his innocent daughter. He can't afford to lose the ones he loves for the second time. But the danger is resting closer than he thinks as no one can be trusted.
365 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 24, 2018
1618 people are currently reading
119 people want to read
About the author
Emma Linfield
111 books82 followersEmma Linfield has always been passionate about historical romances. Ever fascinated with the world of Regency England and being utmost inspired by Jane Austen and Georgette Heyer’s work, she decided she wanted to write her own stories. Stories of love and tradition being mixed in the most appealing way for every hopeless romantic, much like herself.
Born and raised in Southern California, Emma Linfield has a degree in Creative Writing and English Literature, and she has been working as a freelance writer for the past 10 years. When she isn’t writing, Emma loves spending her time with her own prince charming and two beautiful children, all the while enjoying the famous Californian sun and ocean.
So, hop on to this exciting journey of Dukes, Earls and true love with Emma and find pleasure in the old fashioned world of Regency - an Era of pure romance, elegance and high fashion!
(Source: Official Website)
Born and raised in Southern California, Emma Linfield has a degree in Creative Writing and English Literature, and she has been working as a freelance writer for the past 10 years. When she isn’t writing, Emma loves spending her time with her own prince charming and two beautiful children, all the while enjoying the famous Californian sun and ocean.
So, hop on to this exciting journey of Dukes, Earls and true love with Emma and find pleasure in the old fashioned world of Regency - an Era of pure romance, elegance and high fashion!
(Source: Official Website)
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
November 27, 2018
I received an ARC of this book so I hope that most of the errors I encountered have been fixed by the time of its release. There are quite a few seedy characters in this book, not only villains, but also just rotten people who are almost incidental to the story. In Chapter 20, I learned something I had never heard before. Apparently, in the cheap boarding houses, “Those who arrived after all the beds had been claimed were forced to spend the night standing up, fastened between two tight pieces of cord. In the mornings, the owner would yank free one of the ropes, and the line of slumbering people would be rudely whisked awake, a noise that rose every other person in the boarding house.” Additionally, some preferred to sleep that way because the beds were so infested with fleas, bedbugs, and other vermin. Horrifying. I’ve thought it many times while reading an historical fiction, but I am really thankful I didn’t live through those times (that I know of).
There were multiple mysteries transpiring as I turned the pages of this book, and at times I thought I might not be able to keep up with the intrigue. In the end, however, everything is explained and all of the loose ends are tied up neatly. It’s a good story, though not Emma Linfield’s best in my opinion. Still, it is worth reading.
There were multiple mysteries transpiring as I turned the pages of this book, and at times I thought I might not be able to keep up with the intrigue. In the end, however, everything is explained and all of the loose ends are tied up neatly. It’s a good story, though not Emma Linfield’s best in my opinion. Still, it is worth reading.
November 29, 2018
Not a Regency Novel
Linfield needs to learn what is and is not a Regency novel--which this definitely is not. Some writers seem to believe that all historical fiction taking place England before the 20th century are Regency novels. I suggest looking up the Regency, which in fact covers only a part of the 18th century and no part of the 19th.
Linfield needs to learn what is and is not a Regency novel--which this definitely is not. Some writers seem to believe that all historical fiction taking place England before the 20th century are Regency novels. I suggest looking up the Regency, which in fact covers only a part of the 18th century and no part of the 19th.
June 13, 2020
An interesting premise, but a bit of a let-down with gaps in logic and some heavy handed deus ex machina. There are many other stories I'd recommend for a Regency Romance experience.
Where I see this story has potential is in Historical Fiction, not the romance genre. The compelling competition between the wool merchants, as well as the plot line with the elderly grandmother were both interesting and touching. More interesting than the romance, which felt a little lazy and more like an aside than the focus to me.
I did enjoy the way this author wrote the silent thoughts of our mute heroine, though. That was well done.
Where I see this story has potential is in Historical Fiction, not the romance genre. The compelling competition between the wool merchants, as well as the plot line with the elderly grandmother were both interesting and touching. More interesting than the romance, which felt a little lazy and more like an aside than the focus to me.
I did enjoy the way this author wrote the silent thoughts of our mute heroine, though. That was well done.
December 7, 2018
I'm sorry but I found this book boring.
December 7, 2018
It starts with her running thru the rain after just escaping a carriage. She falls to the ground and is unconscious(Mary-Ann). The Duke of Rutland, Neil Arnold, has the care of his five-year-old daughter and his mother, Phyllis Arnold, she forgets things. He could hear yelling at the front of his estate and went to look into it and he was informed that they had found a woman passed out at the front of the estate. They take her upstairs and let her warm up and sleep. It really starts to get complicated from here. There is murder, mayhem, intrigue, and lies. Julien is awful and he is , he crooked and wants all the wool under his control but his biggest rival the Seton's actually beat him at his own game.
I love where the little girl is loved by everyone in the house. Mary Ann (Emily), thinks she is wonderful and she likes playing with the child and help to care for her grandmother. Mary Ann came from an orphanage and had no idea about her parents.
I thought the author did a great job of keeping all the little pieces together. She wrote in a smooth manner, it was well constructed and easy to follow. It made a cohesive story and I enjoyed it very much. I will be looking out for more of her books.
I received this ARC from the author and voluntarily reviewed it.
I love where the little girl is loved by everyone in the house. Mary Ann (Emily), thinks she is wonderful and she likes playing with the child and help to care for her grandmother. Mary Ann came from an orphanage and had no idea about her parents.
I thought the author did a great job of keeping all the little pieces together. She wrote in a smooth manner, it was well constructed and easy to follow. It made a cohesive story and I enjoyed it very much. I will be looking out for more of her books.
I received this ARC from the author and voluntarily reviewed it.
November 28, 2018
SETTING: Escaping from a carriage in the midst of a storm, being chased by a man with a lantern, Mary-Anne runs herself into exhaustion. Found by the drunken carriage driver, she is taken to the manor, and collapses on the ground, not to awaken for 2 days. Unable to speak after the trauma, she finds herself a house servant, which she gladly accepts for the safety it gives her. After all, what had she to lose by leaving her past life behind?
Of course, her pursuer does not give up. The evilness the aptly named Mr. Bastable is willing to perform to achieve his aims, has no bounds. Murder, conniving, cheating and threatening are the bread and butter of how he has obtained his business and wealth. What is more, he does not hesitate to threaten or harm even the innocent in the pursuit of his goals.
CRITIQUE: This skillfully crafted story takes the lives of each of the principles and uses them as if separate threads in weaving a story that moves you to a fever pitch when Mr. Bastable learns where Mary-Anne is and executes the next stages of his plan. I literally had to put the book down, walk away, and break from the tension for a bit, before continuing the story!
The editing was good, the plot excellent. The only thing predictable in this story was the HEA ending, as is common in this genre. This clean story will be enjoyed by readers of all ages.
Of course, her pursuer does not give up. The evilness the aptly named Mr. Bastable is willing to perform to achieve his aims, has no bounds. Murder, conniving, cheating and threatening are the bread and butter of how he has obtained his business and wealth. What is more, he does not hesitate to threaten or harm even the innocent in the pursuit of his goals.
CRITIQUE: This skillfully crafted story takes the lives of each of the principles and uses them as if separate threads in weaving a story that moves you to a fever pitch when Mr. Bastable learns where Mary-Anne is and executes the next stages of his plan. I literally had to put the book down, walk away, and break from the tension for a bit, before continuing the story!
The editing was good, the plot excellent. The only thing predictable in this story was the HEA ending, as is common in this genre. This clean story will be enjoyed by readers of all ages.
November 27, 2018
Go Silently🙊 Into That Good 🌙Night
Traumatized by her own attempted murder in the middle of a violent thunderstorm, Mary-Anne💃💋, leaps from a moving carriage and runs through the woods and eventually finds herself at the country estate of Neil🐺🍆🌋🔪🔫, The Duke of Rutland. She is so scared she loses her voice.🙊
With reservations, the hermit Duke🐺🍆🌋🔪🔫 takes her in. When He sees how good she is with his slightly demented grandmother👵, and also his five year old daughter👩, he relents and makes her part of his servant staff.
For her part, Mary-Anne💃💋 is happy to hide out at the Duke's estate. Someone has been making her life a living hell for years and she hopes she can leave them behind.
Soon, the Duke 🐺🍆🌋begins to develop romantic💕 feelings for her. His wife and parents were killed in a rollover carriage accident five years before, and he has barely existed since then. Mary-Anne💃💋 has made him feel alive again, even though she is a mute🙊. Her loving💕 and caring personality shines through.
ARC Received from Bookfunnel💨
I also got The book📙 with KU.
I absolutely loved this book! There is a lot of detail throughout the book📙 and the story, which partly revolves around a criminal in the Duke's employ, is fascinating!
Traumatized by her own attempted murder in the middle of a violent thunderstorm, Mary-Anne💃💋, leaps from a moving carriage and runs through the woods and eventually finds herself at the country estate of Neil🐺🍆🌋🔪🔫, The Duke of Rutland. She is so scared she loses her voice.🙊
With reservations, the hermit Duke🐺🍆🌋🔪🔫 takes her in. When He sees how good she is with his slightly demented grandmother👵, and also his five year old daughter👩, he relents and makes her part of his servant staff.
For her part, Mary-Anne💃💋 is happy to hide out at the Duke's estate. Someone has been making her life a living hell for years and she hopes she can leave them behind.
Soon, the Duke 🐺🍆🌋begins to develop romantic💕 feelings for her. His wife and parents were killed in a rollover carriage accident five years before, and he has barely existed since then. Mary-Anne💃💋 has made him feel alive again, even though she is a mute🙊. Her loving💕 and caring personality shines through.
ARC Received from Bookfunnel💨
I also got The book📙 with KU.
I absolutely loved this book! There is a lot of detail throughout the book📙 and the story, which partly revolves around a criminal in the Duke's employ, is fascinating!
December 9, 2018
History is not solely made by dukes and the like. And neither is this story. It isn't just about the duke and the woman who steals his heart. There are many more colourful characters in different occupations and stages of life. And that makes it such a great book!
I would only change the title into something like: The Unusual Story of the Mysterious Servant Girl. Since she only becomes a duchess in the epilogue...
I received a copy and chose to review it.
I would only change the title into something like: The Unusual Story of the Mysterious Servant Girl. Since she only becomes a duchess in the epilogue...
I received a copy and chose to review it.
December 2, 2018
Just finished the story. Love the story line. A heart broken Duke over the deaths of his parents and wife 5 years ago trying to raise his daughter. All of asunden a mystery woman who appears to be mute is found lying in the rain on the Dukes (Neil’s) property. MARY-Anne was running from her abductor and was found by the Dukes man! Upon recovering in his home she realizes she has lost her voice and his too scared to write down her identity. A great read with intrigue, danger, a villain, love and a new lease on life!
Read
January 12, 2020insurance fraud but make it sexy
(nope)
(nope)
November 28, 2018
This is a suspenseful, action and adventure story. From the very beginning, the author invites you into a world of danger and a crossing of social status romance. The excitement only builds from that point on. I love the fact we have a strong heroine, Mary-Anne/Emily in this story and a brooding sad hero, Neil Arnold, the Duke of Rutland. He had a five-year-old precocious daughter, Kaitlin, who was constantly running away from her governess and music instructor. The Duke's grandmother, Phyllis, was slowly losing touch with the present and more and more living in the past. It was touching how the author addressed her behavior by having everyone around her treat her normally, with respect and would indulge her memories. This is a wonderful story and I highly recommend it.
November 28, 2018
A well written story with nice storyline and plot. Likeable characters who are well described and develops nicely through the story. The author has made this romance true to the time period. I like when the author has made her research.
This story is very emotional and strong written. I was caught from the first chapter. The writing style and use of words made it a very passionate and heartwarm story. A instant attraction romance with a nice pace and some issues before the couple have their HEA. They have to change both themselves and their past. At times I was confused because of all the characters and twists but suddenly it all fit together.
A historical romance with a bit of drama and action as well as romance and sweet scenes.
Enjoyable and engaging read.
This story is very emotional and strong written. I was caught from the first chapter. The writing style and use of words made it a very passionate and heartwarm story. A instant attraction romance with a nice pace and some issues before the couple have their HEA. They have to change both themselves and their past. At times I was confused because of all the characters and twists but suddenly it all fit together.
A historical romance with a bit of drama and action as well as romance and sweet scenes.
Enjoyable and engaging read.
December 1, 2018
ONE INCREDIBLY THRILLING READ!!!
Oh man, talk about your friends close and enemies closer. This is one action packed, hard hitting, heart pounding, pulse racing, smooth flowing, page turning bombshell that's as riveting as it is captivating. A whirlwind of emotions and events that bring all the drama, fear, lies, danger and suspense along with tension. All the twists and turns, ups and downs, along with a few unexpected circumstances and unpredictable surprises around every corner make for thrilling experience. The characters and scenes are written with such realism it really pulls this bad boy together beautifully. The scenes are so graphically detailed it's easy to picture each scenario as they play off one another perfectly. Emma did an excellent job bringing this read to life. Great job Emma, thanks for sharing this little guy with us.
Oh man, talk about your friends close and enemies closer. This is one action packed, hard hitting, heart pounding, pulse racing, smooth flowing, page turning bombshell that's as riveting as it is captivating. A whirlwind of emotions and events that bring all the drama, fear, lies, danger and suspense along with tension. All the twists and turns, ups and downs, along with a few unexpected circumstances and unpredictable surprises around every corner make for thrilling experience. The characters and scenes are written with such realism it really pulls this bad boy together beautifully. The scenes are so graphically detailed it's easy to picture each scenario as they play off one another perfectly. Emma did an excellent job bringing this read to life. Great job Emma, thanks for sharing this little guy with us.
November 29, 2018
Mary-Anne is chased through a severe storm where she collapses at Duke of Rutland, Neil Arnold's doorstep. When she wakes up she cannot speak. Neil's grandmother, Phyllis starts calling her Emily and appoints her to be her companion and to take care of her. Neil's young daughter takes an instant liking to Mary-Anne. After a while Neil finds himself drawn to her.
Who is this mysterious woman who showed up at Neil's doorstep during a storm?
This is a great book, and I really enjoyed it. I was given a copy of this book. This is my true and honest opinion.
Who is this mysterious woman who showed up at Neil's doorstep during a storm?
This is a great book, and I really enjoyed it. I was given a copy of this book. This is my true and honest opinion.
December 3, 2018
Mute terror..
Mary-Anne escapes from being abducted to find that when she finds safety, her voice is gone.
The Duke of Rutland provides shelter while she recuperates and then allows her to help with his grandmother and his daughter.
Mr. Bastrade.
Mary-Anne escapes from being abducted to find that when she finds safety, her voice is gone.
The Duke of Rutland provides shelter while she recuperates and then allows her to help with his grandmother and his daughter.
Mr. Bastrade.
December 1, 2018
The Unusual Story of the Silent Duchess is a touching read. Healing of a bitter heart, striking conflict, and complex characters make for a delightful read for any romance enthusiast. Emma is a master Weaver.
November 27, 2018
Sewsummore
5.0 out of 5 stars A complex story of love and greed.
November 26, 2018
This was a complex story encompassing greed, sorrow and forbidden love. Mary-Ann is found wet and bedraggled after escaping the clutches of a villain determined to marry her for her inheritance. When she awakens she finds herself in the home a reclusive Duke who allows her to remain as a companion to his aged grandmother. I really like the twists in this story and their growing affection for one and other. I received a free ARC copy of this book and have voluntarily read and reviewed this book.
5.0 out of 5 stars A complex story of love and greed.
November 26, 2018
This was a complex story encompassing greed, sorrow and forbidden love. Mary-Ann is found wet and bedraggled after escaping the clutches of a villain determined to marry her for her inheritance. When she awakens she finds herself in the home a reclusive Duke who allows her to remain as a companion to his aged grandmother. I really like the twists in this story and their growing affection for one and other. I received a free ARC copy of this book and have voluntarily read and reviewed this book.
November 27, 2018
I recieved an ARC copy of this book . This is my review .
There were so many characters that the twists and turns with each page I read , had me wondering where these nasty buggers fit into the story .
They all end up playing a part in the final picture which all is revealed and you have the " ahhh-haa" as to where they fit in.
It did take me longer to read this one as it wasnt one of my favored reads by Emma this time , but all in all its still a good story.
There were so many characters that the twists and turns with each page I read , had me wondering where these nasty buggers fit into the story .
They all end up playing a part in the final picture which all is revealed and you have the " ahhh-haa" as to where they fit in.
It did take me longer to read this one as it wasnt one of my favored reads by Emma this time , but all in all its still a good story.
November 26, 2018
Lovely, heartwarming story with some exciting twists and turns. Mary-Anne and Neil have both suffered loss in their past. Can the attraction they feel, heal their souls, or will it cause more problems? The descriptions of the lives of these people was very informative and added to my enjoyment of the book. This story is well worth reading.
I received an ARC copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I received an ARC copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
December 27, 2018
Flimsy at best.
Well I have to say that was a very tedious read. At times it was difficult to discern who was the main character. Too many main characters and not enough support staff.
The rivalry between merchants was poorly explained and very long winded.
Poor Randolph deserved a better end whilst Oliver was over indulged.
Neil could have been developed better and Emily\ Mary-Anne was hardly in the story frame to credit her with title credits. The best character was great grandma. But even she was under developed.
A poorly constructed novel which made for a difficult and disjointed read and a wholly disappointing one.
Better editing needed here. Plus better developed story lines. Too many under developed lines and altogether too many lines which were poorly brought together.
Well I have to say that was a very tedious read. At times it was difficult to discern who was the main character. Too many main characters and not enough support staff.
The rivalry between merchants was poorly explained and very long winded.
Poor Randolph deserved a better end whilst Oliver was over indulged.
Neil could have been developed better and Emily\ Mary-Anne was hardly in the story frame to credit her with title credits. The best character was great grandma. But even she was under developed.
A poorly constructed novel which made for a difficult and disjointed read and a wholly disappointing one.
Better editing needed here. Plus better developed story lines. Too many under developed lines and altogether too many lines which were poorly brought together.
January 28, 2019
It was so-so
Where to start? The story is told in third person. Our heroine doesn't speak due to a traumatic experience so the staff at the Dukes manor call her Emily. When the staff is talking to or about her she is Emily, but in the narration she is always MaryAnne. Gets a bit confusing till you get used to it.
The writing wasn't exactly bad, but it wasn't good either. No issues with grammar, punctuation or spelling (that can ruin a good story). But the writing was long-winded ... pages of ramblings of insignificant activities that had no real bearing on the story. I found myself putting the book down out of boredom only to pick it up again a week later (my OCD of having to finish a book kicking in). I finally found myself skimming through pages to get to the meat of the story to see how it ended.
There was also something lacking in the characters, they weren't completely flat but there was something missing, especially from the h and H. The H wasn't exactly my idea of an alpha H...not even a broken one. Broken H's are usually brooding and/or rude, but always strong.. This one was neither, in fact, he was almost too nice and then broke down in tears when our heroine is suspected of stealing from him. Anger would have been a more appropriate reaction.
The author should have spent more time rambling about their emotions and feelings than the insignificant activities...might have connected better with the h and H. As it is, I didn't feel what they were feeling so their reactions seemed hokey at times.
This could have been a really good story, I just didn't feel invested in the characters.
Where to start? The story is told in third person. Our heroine doesn't speak due to a traumatic experience so the staff at the Dukes manor call her Emily. When the staff is talking to or about her she is Emily, but in the narration she is always MaryAnne. Gets a bit confusing till you get used to it.
The writing wasn't exactly bad, but it wasn't good either. No issues with grammar, punctuation or spelling (that can ruin a good story). But the writing was long-winded ... pages of ramblings of insignificant activities that had no real bearing on the story. I found myself putting the book down out of boredom only to pick it up again a week later (my OCD of having to finish a book kicking in). I finally found myself skimming through pages to get to the meat of the story to see how it ended.
There was also something lacking in the characters, they weren't completely flat but there was something missing, especially from the h and H. The H wasn't exactly my idea of an alpha H...not even a broken one. Broken H's are usually brooding and/or rude, but always strong.. This one was neither, in fact, he was almost too nice and then broke down in tears when our heroine is suspected of stealing from him. Anger would have been a more appropriate reaction.
The author should have spent more time rambling about their emotions and feelings than the insignificant activities...might have connected better with the h and H. As it is, I didn't feel what they were feeling so their reactions seemed hokey at times.
This could have been a really good story, I just didn't feel invested in the characters.
December 27, 2018
Difficult story.
It took me some time to complete this book, due to being dark and depressive I felt. There were twists and turns in the story but it was a sad story. My heart went out to young Randolph, aide to Mr
Beatable, who treated him appalling, and the boys sad demise. I couldn't like the Duke (Neil) either as whilst one might sympathise with his having lost his parents and wife the fact that his Valet pandered to his depression, and the Dukes weeping and wailing was beyond me, also why did the Valet run the household when it was usually done by a butler. I also felt for the Dukes child Kaitlin, there was no wonder she sought attention from Mary Anne, the poor child lived with a grandparent with dementia, a father who was depressed, a governess who should probably have been pensioned off and a Valet who was to say the least strange.
This was my first book by this author, so I don't really know if this is her style of writing, it was a well written book but unfortunately I didn't enjoy it.
It took me some time to complete this book, due to being dark and depressive I felt. There were twists and turns in the story but it was a sad story. My heart went out to young Randolph, aide to Mr
Beatable, who treated him appalling, and the boys sad demise. I couldn't like the Duke (Neil) either as whilst one might sympathise with his having lost his parents and wife the fact that his Valet pandered to his depression, and the Dukes weeping and wailing was beyond me, also why did the Valet run the household when it was usually done by a butler. I also felt for the Dukes child Kaitlin, there was no wonder she sought attention from Mary Anne, the poor child lived with a grandparent with dementia, a father who was depressed, a governess who should probably have been pensioned off and a Valet who was to say the least strange.
This was my first book by this author, so I don't really know if this is her style of writing, it was a well written book but unfortunately I didn't enjoy it.
January 9, 2019
This is definitely an engaging Historical Romance that will keep you turning the pages. What I found highly unusual was that after the happy ending--you are invited to click over and read an extra short epilogue which will tell you what happens after the story ends. I love this idea!!!!
A girl is abducted and manages to escape on a rainy and stormy night--she is so frightened that she becomes mute. She makes her way somehow to to Duke of Rutland's home and is taken in. She ultimately becomes part of the household helping with the Duke's senile Grandmother and befriending his young and rambunctious daughter.
Calamities happen--and through it all the Duke starts falling for this young women even though he has no idea who she is--and she starts to fall for him--
Then the man who originally abducted her decides to steal her away--his scheme is horrendous!
Can the Duke save his lady love from the clutches of this person? Does the Dutchess ever regain her voice?
If you love Regency Historicals--this book is for you!
A girl is abducted and manages to escape on a rainy and stormy night--she is so frightened that she becomes mute. She makes her way somehow to to Duke of Rutland's home and is taken in. She ultimately becomes part of the household helping with the Duke's senile Grandmother and befriending his young and rambunctious daughter.
Calamities happen--and through it all the Duke starts falling for this young women even though he has no idea who she is--and she starts to fall for him--
Then the man who originally abducted her decides to steal her away--his scheme is horrendous!
Can the Duke save his lady love from the clutches of this person? Does the Dutchess ever regain her voice?
If you love Regency Historicals--this book is for you!
February 6, 2019
Quite an unusual story
Quite an unusual writing style. Kinda had to read parts of the dialogues in a Scottish accent, can't explain why, though. Guess cause the dialogues were quite authentic for an earlier time?
Anyways, there are a lot of POVs in this book and I must admit that it's quite hard to follow the storyline as it shifts from one place to another. A bit distracting, to be honest... Plus, the characters' actions are sometimes a bit too abrupt and we don't really get an explanation for why they acted a certain way...
So, not so sure about this one yet .
Alrighty, so I finished it and gotta say, I did like it. Yeah, the ending was a bit predictable and yes, this is def. not a regency novel as it takes place later than that period but it was an interesting read.
I liked the plot: mute heroine running from something or someone meets the duke who is still grieving.
Both MCs were a bit difficult to grasp, unfortunately... They just werent really the MCs in this book as there were simply too many other side characters whose POVs were also in there.
Anyyyways, all in all, still not a bad one (although not a regency novel)
Quite an unusual writing style. Kinda had to read parts of the dialogues in a Scottish accent, can't explain why, though. Guess cause the dialogues were quite authentic for an earlier time?
Anyways, there are a lot of POVs in this book and I must admit that it's quite hard to follow the storyline as it shifts from one place to another. A bit distracting, to be honest... Plus, the characters' actions are sometimes a bit too abrupt and we don't really get an explanation for why they acted a certain way...
So, not so sure about this one yet .
Alrighty, so I finished it and gotta say, I did like it. Yeah, the ending was a bit predictable and yes, this is def. not a regency novel as it takes place later than that period but it was an interesting read.
I liked the plot: mute heroine running from something or someone meets the duke who is still grieving.
Both MCs were a bit difficult to grasp, unfortunately... They just werent really the MCs in this book as there were simply too many other side characters whose POVs were also in there.
Anyyyways, all in all, still not a bad one (although not a regency novel)
January 1, 2022
Enjoyable and Entertaining
I wasn’t sure if I should give this book 3 or 4 stars. The storyline was thoroughly enjoyable, filled with pathos, mystery, heartbreak, joy, intrigue and action. The only thing I found missing was the main character, Mary-Ann. There are no descriptions of her, neither physically nor emotionally throughout most of the story. It’s as though she’s a secondary character. We get a feel for the main male character, Neil, as well as for the other characters in this book. (Phyllis, Thomas, Oliver, Lucy). I appreciate it when the writer expounds on the personalities of the secondary characters … we get insight into their motivations and can better understand their behaviours. Unfortunately, that wasn’t the case with Mary-Ann. It was only towards the end we were able to finally understand her actions. So unfortunately I didn’t relate to her at all, nor did I find her particularly likeable. But I was glad of the epilogue which allowed us to see the happy ending for Oliver and Lucy. This was nevertheless a very interesting read.
I wasn’t sure if I should give this book 3 or 4 stars. The storyline was thoroughly enjoyable, filled with pathos, mystery, heartbreak, joy, intrigue and action. The only thing I found missing was the main character, Mary-Ann. There are no descriptions of her, neither physically nor emotionally throughout most of the story. It’s as though she’s a secondary character. We get a feel for the main male character, Neil, as well as for the other characters in this book. (Phyllis, Thomas, Oliver, Lucy). I appreciate it when the writer expounds on the personalities of the secondary characters … we get insight into their motivations and can better understand their behaviours. Unfortunately, that wasn’t the case with Mary-Ann. It was only towards the end we were able to finally understand her actions. So unfortunately I didn’t relate to her at all, nor did I find her particularly likeable. But I was glad of the epilogue which allowed us to see the happy ending for Oliver and Lucy. This was nevertheless a very interesting read.
November 29, 2018
I also received the ARC copy of this book. I loved it, a very enjoyable read. The characters are well-described, the story line well-written. Action packed and full of adventure throughout the story. I especially love how Phyllis was handled throughout the story, how she was shown the special love, attention and respect due to all our elderly and frail loved ones. Bravo, Emma, for another great book! I have to say, though, there are numerous grammatical errors throughout the book that I hope will be fixed before the book's release.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 11, 2019
I have a question...
Regency Romance used to mean something. When a book came with the Regency Romance name on the cover, you knew you were getting a well written story, in which words, thoughts, ideas, and situations reflected the Regency period.
My question is this? Has Regency Romance changed, having no meaning any longer, so that any writer, such as the case here, can call anything a Regency Romance, while making no effort to make it sound believable at all? Such a disappointment.
Regency Romance used to mean something. When a book came with the Regency Romance name on the cover, you knew you were getting a well written story, in which words, thoughts, ideas, and situations reflected the Regency period.
My question is this? Has Regency Romance changed, having no meaning any longer, so that any writer, such as the case here, can call anything a Regency Romance, while making no effort to make it sound believable at all? Such a disappointment.
August 18, 2019
Awesome book
I was very pleased with this book. The plot was incredible. To lose your voice after such a frightening experience is something else. Mary-Anne was kept safe by not being able to talk. But, then the evil Mr. Balastor was able to find her and try to kidnap her again.
However, the Duke saw through the rise and fought for his true love. He chased down the coach that had taken her away and was able to rescue her just in time to keep her from falling to her death like his first wife did.
Thank you,
Ruby Hanson
I was very pleased with this book. The plot was incredible. To lose your voice after such a frightening experience is something else. Mary-Anne was kept safe by not being able to talk. But, then the evil Mr. Balastor was able to find her and try to kidnap her again.
However, the Duke saw through the rise and fought for his true love. He chased down the coach that had taken her away and was able to rescue her just in time to keep her from falling to her death like his first wife did.
Thank you,
Ruby Hanson
July 1, 2022
Liked the story about Mary-Ann who ran through the forest during a severe storm running away from an evil man. When she awoke she couldn't speak. With an attraction to the Duke Mary-Ann couldn't tell the Duke of her feelings. The evil man saw her from a distance and wanted her so he came up with a plan to get her out of the Dukes house so he could get her out of the country and get the money left her by her father (which she didn't know about). Does he get ahold of Mary-Ann or does the Duke and Mary-Ann get together.
December 26, 2018
A Duke trying to be there for his daughter and mother after losing his wife. Also trying to run his property and be there for his tenants. It was a miracle that the lady was able to escape to safety and meet the Duke of her dreams . It's hard to communicate ones true feelings when they can't speak. Sadness,loss, of microbes and business adventures.to rise above it all. I give it a 5++++ I was given a chance to read this book for a honest review.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews