What do you think?
Rate this book
An American Duchess
A woman’s heart dares to defy the rules of Victorian society in USA Today bestselling author Caroline Fyffe’s novel of romance, royalty, and a little revenge.
In Kent, England, the arrival of Beranger Northcott, Duke of Brightshire, causes a stir. Because with the duke comes his new American bride, who isn’t quite what anyone expects. By accepting the hand of her beloved, Emma Brinkman went from hardworking Colorado rancher to duchess. Now she’s expected to comport herself as nobility. Overnight. For Emma—stifled, homesick, and unable to shake the feeling she’s being watched—the metamorphosis is a challenge. And if Emma’s suspicions are correct, perhaps even a dangerous one.
Fortunately, Emma has found a trusted friend in the orphaned Charlotte, Brightshire’s scullery maid. Charlotte longs to experience—if only for a moment—the luxuries and gentry romance that come with a titled life. When one of the duke’s handsome cousins takes notice of Charlotte, the castle kitchen is set abuzz with speculation.
In navigating their two different stations, both servant and duchess alike will discover all they have in common—from secret fantasies to daring hearts to upending the rules of society. And that finding their places in the world—and love—is a dream that can come true—no matter the risks.
In Kent, England, the arrival of Beranger Northcott, Duke of Brightshire, causes a stir. Because with the duke comes his new American bride, who isn’t quite what anyone expects. By accepting the hand of her beloved, Emma Brinkman went from hardworking Colorado rancher to duchess. Now she’s expected to comport herself as nobility. Overnight. For Emma—stifled, homesick, and unable to shake the feeling she’s being watched—the metamorphosis is a challenge. And if Emma’s suspicions are correct, perhaps even a dangerous one.
Fortunately, Emma has found a trusted friend in the orphaned Charlotte, Brightshire’s scullery maid. Charlotte longs to experience—if only for a moment—the luxuries and gentry romance that come with a titled life. When one of the duke’s handsome cousins takes notice of Charlotte, the castle kitchen is set abuzz with speculation.
In navigating their two different stations, both servant and duchess alike will discover all they have in common—from secret fantasies to daring hearts to upending the rules of society. And that finding their places in the world—and love—is a dream that can come true—no matter the risks.
343 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 25, 2019
1769 people are currently reading
2321 people want to read
About the author
Caroline Fyffe
30 books627 followersUSA Today Bestselling Author Caroline Fyffe was born in Waco, Texas, the first of many towns she would call home during her father's career with the US Air Force. A horse aficionado from an early age, she earned a Bachelor of Arts in communications from California State University-Chico before launching what would become a twenty-year career as an equine photographer. She began writing fiction to pass the time during long days in the show arena, channeling her love of horses and the Old West into a series of Western historicals. Her debut novel, Where the Wind Blows, won the Romance Writers of America's prestigious Golden Heart Award as well as the Wisconsin RWA's Write Touch Readers' Award. She and her husband have two grown sons and live in the Pacific Northwest.
Visit Caroline at www.carolinefyffe.com
See her photographs at www.carolinefyffephoto.com
http://facebook.com/caroline.fyffe
Twitter @carolinefyffe
Write to her at caroline@carolinefyffe.com. She loves hearing from readers!
Visit Caroline at www.carolinefyffe.com
See her photographs at www.carolinefyffephoto.com
http://facebook.com/caroline.fyffe
Twitter @carolinefyffe
Write to her at caroline@carolinefyffe.com. She loves hearing from readers!
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 231 reviews
July 21, 2021
Beranger Northcott arrives back in England to claim his title as the Duke of Brightshire, his estate is in Kent and with him is his new American bride Emma. Life changed for Emma when she married Beranger, her father owns one of the largest cattle ranches in Colorado and she’s left her family behind in America. The new duchess is very down to earth, not used to having servants and treats everyone as an equal. Emma feels she’s being watched, the previous Duke passed away in suspicious circumstances and she’s worried about her husband’s safety.
Charlotte Aldridge works at her Aunts bakery, when her cousin is ill and she fills in for her working as a scullery maid at the castle. She meets the duchess when she tours the kitchen, she’s promote to helping the pastry chef and is surprised how friendly the duchess is.
Charlotte and Emma have a lot in common, both will do anything and take risks for the people they love. Danger is lurking and the person behind it is not someone you would expect. An American Duchess, is a quick and easy read. I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review and three stars from me.
Charlotte Aldridge works at her Aunts bakery, when her cousin is ill and she fills in for her working as a scullery maid at the castle. She meets the duchess when she tours the kitchen, she’s promote to helping the pastry chef and is surprised how friendly the duchess is.
Charlotte and Emma have a lot in common, both will do anything and take risks for the people they love. Danger is lurking and the person behind it is not someone you would expect. An American Duchess, is a quick and easy read. I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review and three stars from me.
May 24, 2019
It has been almost a decade since I have read anything by Caroline Fyffe. When I requested this story from Netgalley, I wasn’t aware An American Duchess was the sequel to Heart of Mine, part of the Colorado Hearts series. Fortunately, it can be read as a standalone.
The problem I ran into was the plot followed two couples or four MCs. Emma and Beranger from Heart of Mine was the established twosome. In addition, there was a slowly-developed romance between Charlotte and Tristen, or will it be Justin?
The setting took place during Victorian times and two of the people were in domestic positions. They developed a friendship with Emma -a new duchess- and, with caution, accepted an immediate promotion. Other characters had a difficult time accepting this. Meanwhile, the reader was expected to take an immediate leap of faith.
About halfway in, two cowboys- former co-workers of Emma’s from America- visited her new home. It was distracting. As this was happening, Beranger was struck down with an unusual illness. And all along, his deceased father’s wife treated the new duke and duchess with snobbery and what bordered as hate.
~~~~~
To sum it up, there were two romances, a love triangle, a sudden mysterious illness, two visiting cattlemen and a nasty stepmother. I felt as though too much was going on and I found the writing syntax awkward. I liked Emma -and Charlotte- but I would have preferred ’less is more’.
*Thank you to Ms. Fyffe, Montlake Romance and Netgalley for the opportunity to read this story. I was given it for an honest review.*
The problem I ran into was the plot followed two couples or four MCs. Emma and Beranger from Heart of Mine was the established twosome. In addition, there was a slowly-developed romance between Charlotte and Tristen, or will it be Justin?
The setting took place during Victorian times and two of the people were in domestic positions. They developed a friendship with Emma -a new duchess- and, with caution, accepted an immediate promotion. Other characters had a difficult time accepting this. Meanwhile, the reader was expected to take an immediate leap of faith.
About halfway in, two cowboys- former co-workers of Emma’s from America- visited her new home. It was distracting. As this was happening, Beranger was struck down with an unusual illness. And all along, his deceased father’s wife treated the new duke and duchess with snobbery and what bordered as hate.
~~~~~
To sum it up, there were two romances, a love triangle, a sudden mysterious illness, two visiting cattlemen and a nasty stepmother. I felt as though too much was going on and I found the writing syntax awkward. I liked Emma -and Charlotte- but I would have preferred ’less is more’.
*Thank you to Ms. Fyffe, Montlake Romance and Netgalley for the opportunity to read this story. I was given it for an honest review.*
June 9, 2019
Series: Standalone
Publication Date: 6/25/19
Number of Pages: 348
Whew! I have to take a rest! There was a lot going on in this book by new-to-me author Caroline Fyffe. I enjoyed both love stories and the mystery, the writing was excellent, and I loved the characters. I’d even like to see some of them in their own books. I’ll definitely read this author again.
When the book first started off, I thought, “Oh man, not another one that gets it wrong.” Then, she turned it right around and got it right. Good going! It appeared that she was going to have an illegitimate son inheriting the title – and we all know that is absolutely impossible. So – good for you Ms. Fyffe.
Beranger Northcott had a horrid childhood as the illegitimate child of the Duke of Brightshire. At the age of thirteen, he’d run away from the father who never loved him and the step-mother who mistreated him. He rode to the harbor and sold his freedom for four years as a deckhand aboard a ship, the Destiny. When his four years were up, he found himself in America where he made his fortune. Now, he’s returning to Ashbury Castle as the new Duke of Brightshire – along with his duchess, the love of his life, Emma Brinkman Northcott. They are newlywed and firmly, steadfastly and stalwartly in love – and I was so happy to see that nothing could shake that.
Emma is an American through and through. She’s an American heiress, but not the kind we usually read about - as in she's not from New York, Boston, Boston, etc. She and her four sisters inherited one of the largest, most profitable ranches in Colorado – the Five Sisters Ranch. She and her sisters are very, very close and she cannot imagine not being able to see them every day, but here she is, in England with the man with whom she fell instantly in love.
English life as an aristocrat isn’t easy for either Beranger or Emma. Beranger has spent so many years in America that he is more American than English and Emma – well, she has a strong belief in equality and she sure isn’t finding that in England. Add to that an insufferable ‘step-mother’ who takes delight in belittling Beranger and Emma and trying to make them appear inept and you have a situation that could begin to unravel their love. However, I love that wasn’t the case – their love never wavered – no matter what was thrown at them. Even when Beranger became very ill and Emma suspected someone was poisoning him, she didn’t cower, she stood strong and guarded him like a tigress.
The second love story features Charlotte Aldridge and Tristen Llewellyn.
Charlotte is the niece of the local bakery owner and Tristen is the nephew of the gamekeeper at Ashbury Castle. Charlotte has always felt that her Aunt Ethel hated her. She berates and belittles her constantly. Nothing Charlotte ever does is good enough and that hatred grows exponentially when Charlotte catches the eye of the new duchess and is offered a position at the castle.
Tristen is so grateful to his uncle for taking him into his home and is now very happy to fill in as gamekeeper at the castle during his uncle’s illness. His uncle could have just left him to fend for himself and with his past to haunt him, he wouldn’t have fared very well. When Tristen meets the new duke and duchess, he really likes them – and they like him in return.
Between Tristen’s secret, Charlotte’s troubling suspicions about her cousin Thomas, the possible murder of the last duke, mysterious illnesses of the new duke, the attention of Mr. Winter, and a startling revelation about Charlotte, their romance seems doomed. The road to their HEA isn’t an easy one, but it was nice to see it when it arrived.
This book left me scratching my head over a few details that didn’t feel wrapped up, but I thoroughly enjoyed the read.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Publication Date: 6/25/19
Number of Pages: 348
Whew! I have to take a rest! There was a lot going on in this book by new-to-me author Caroline Fyffe. I enjoyed both love stories and the mystery, the writing was excellent, and I loved the characters. I’d even like to see some of them in their own books. I’ll definitely read this author again.
When the book first started off, I thought, “Oh man, not another one that gets it wrong.” Then, she turned it right around and got it right. Good going! It appeared that she was going to have an illegitimate son inheriting the title – and we all know that is absolutely impossible. So – good for you Ms. Fyffe.
Beranger Northcott had a horrid childhood as the illegitimate child of the Duke of Brightshire. At the age of thirteen, he’d run away from the father who never loved him and the step-mother who mistreated him. He rode to the harbor and sold his freedom for four years as a deckhand aboard a ship, the Destiny. When his four years were up, he found himself in America where he made his fortune. Now, he’s returning to Ashbury Castle as the new Duke of Brightshire – along with his duchess, the love of his life, Emma Brinkman Northcott. They are newlywed and firmly, steadfastly and stalwartly in love – and I was so happy to see that nothing could shake that.
Emma is an American through and through. She’s an American heiress, but not the kind we usually read about - as in she's not from New York, Boston, Boston, etc. She and her four sisters inherited one of the largest, most profitable ranches in Colorado – the Five Sisters Ranch. She and her sisters are very, very close and she cannot imagine not being able to see them every day, but here she is, in England with the man with whom she fell instantly in love.
English life as an aristocrat isn’t easy for either Beranger or Emma. Beranger has spent so many years in America that he is more American than English and Emma – well, she has a strong belief in equality and she sure isn’t finding that in England. Add to that an insufferable ‘step-mother’ who takes delight in belittling Beranger and Emma and trying to make them appear inept and you have a situation that could begin to unravel their love. However, I love that wasn’t the case – their love never wavered – no matter what was thrown at them. Even when Beranger became very ill and Emma suspected someone was poisoning him, she didn’t cower, she stood strong and guarded him like a tigress.
The second love story features Charlotte Aldridge and Tristen Llewellyn.
Charlotte is the niece of the local bakery owner and Tristen is the nephew of the gamekeeper at Ashbury Castle. Charlotte has always felt that her Aunt Ethel hated her. She berates and belittles her constantly. Nothing Charlotte ever does is good enough and that hatred grows exponentially when Charlotte catches the eye of the new duchess and is offered a position at the castle.
Tristen is so grateful to his uncle for taking him into his home and is now very happy to fill in as gamekeeper at the castle during his uncle’s illness. His uncle could have just left him to fend for himself and with his past to haunt him, he wouldn’t have fared very well. When Tristen meets the new duke and duchess, he really likes them – and they like him in return.
Between Tristen’s secret, Charlotte’s troubling suspicions about her cousin Thomas, the possible murder of the last duke, mysterious illnesses of the new duke, the attention of Mr. Winter, and a startling revelation about Charlotte, their romance seems doomed. The road to their HEA isn’t an easy one, but it was nice to see it when it arrived.
This book left me scratching my head over a few details that didn’t feel wrapped up, but I thoroughly enjoyed the read.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 29, 2019
There's a lot of mayhem going on in this delightful Victorian novel! It's fun to read a story of an American coming back "across the pond" to take her place in English society. Emma and Beranger had no expectations of him becoming the new Duke and Emma is quite up to this position, according to some--namely her wicked her step-mother-in-law.
I loved watching Emma take on this challenge, mingling her background with her new expectations. She isn't what they expect, and while she tries to conform in some ways, she stays true to herself, bringing a breath of fresh air to the stuffiness of society.
There is a mystery, waiting to be discovered, and danger abounds, especially when the Duke falls ill. It was fun trying to guess what was going on and who was behind it, and that's where my slight issues lie.
Emma and Beranger are already married, but there is still a lot of romance and romantic tension to be found. The relationships steal the cake for this one--not only between this charming couple, but within the friendships, new and old, that are formed. This book definitely found its place within my heart.
Content: mild+ romance (all behind closed doors, but implied, kissing); mild+ language; very mild religion
*I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
I loved watching Emma take on this challenge, mingling her background with her new expectations. She isn't what they expect, and while she tries to conform in some ways, she stays true to herself, bringing a breath of fresh air to the stuffiness of society.
There is a mystery, waiting to be discovered, and danger abounds, especially when the Duke falls ill. It was fun trying to guess what was going on and who was behind it, and that's where my slight issues lie.
Emma and Beranger are already married, but there is still a lot of romance and romantic tension to be found. The relationships steal the cake for this one--not only between this charming couple, but within the friendships, new and old, that are formed. This book definitely found its place within my heart.
Content: mild+ romance (all behind closed doors, but implied, kissing); mild+ language; very mild religion
*I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
July 2, 2019
A master storyteller, Caroline Fyffe takes you into a 1881 England and a newly named Duke and his American Bride! Beranger Northcutt has just inherited the title of the Duke of Brightshire. Having been living in America and just married Emma Brinkman, they set sail to Beranger's homeland. A lot has happened since he had been gone but nothing has changed about his hateful stepmother, except that now she has to rely upon him.
Of course, Emma coming from a small town and becoming a Duchess, wasn't sure what she was to do, but she quickly captured the hearts of many by her delightful spirit and humble demenor. But the love between her and Beranger just won my heart.
There is so much going on with this story that it captured me from the first page as we meet Charlotte, who will also play a role and have a budding romance. Mystery, suspense as Beranger becomes ill and it seems someone wants to do him harm, secrets that will come out and of course romance is in the air.
I truly loved this story and with the wonderful descriptive prose it seemed I was there in England with the characters and watching the story unfold!!
Of course, Emma coming from a small town and becoming a Duchess, wasn't sure what she was to do, but she quickly captured the hearts of many by her delightful spirit and humble demenor. But the love between her and Beranger just won my heart.
There is so much going on with this story that it captured me from the first page as we meet Charlotte, who will also play a role and have a budding romance. Mystery, suspense as Beranger becomes ill and it seems someone wants to do him harm, secrets that will come out and of course romance is in the air.
I truly loved this story and with the wonderful descriptive prose it seemed I was there in England with the characters and watching the story unfold!!
June 6, 2019
I liked the book alot. it was a little long but interesting all the same. I espesially liked Emma and Charlotte, the two main characters of the book. They became fierce and strong women throughout the book.
January 31, 2021
After the death of the previous Duke of Brightshire under potentially mysterious circumstances, the heir, Beranger Northcott has just returned to England to assume his newfound responsibilities with his new American bride in tow. Emma Northcott is hoping not to embarrass her husband with her lack of knowledge of English customs, meanwhile her adoring husband worries she won't be content in England. Soon it becomes apparent that their happiness may not be the most pressing concern. Indeed, their very lives may be threatened.
Meanwhile the new duchess bonds with the new kitchen maid Charlotte Aldridge and Charlotte explores a belowstairs romance of her own, setting the tongues of the staff wagging. Both women share similar dreams and suspicions despite their differences in station and with Emma not knowing who to trust, their friendship becomes all the stronger.
This book has a rather dark, gothic tone that put me in mind of Daphne du Maurier's Rebecca. It was quite different from what I usually read and it did take me a bit to get into it, but once I did I couldn't put it down. You're left wondering who to trust the whole time and then glorying in the triumph of Emma and Charlotte as they come into their own. I definitely enjoyed this one, even more than I myself expected to.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
Meanwhile the new duchess bonds with the new kitchen maid Charlotte Aldridge and Charlotte explores a belowstairs romance of her own, setting the tongues of the staff wagging. Both women share similar dreams and suspicions despite their differences in station and with Emma not knowing who to trust, their friendship becomes all the stronger.
This book has a rather dark, gothic tone that put me in mind of Daphne du Maurier's Rebecca. It was quite different from what I usually read and it did take me a bit to get into it, but once I did I couldn't put it down. You're left wondering who to trust the whole time and then glorying in the triumph of Emma and Charlotte as they come into their own. I definitely enjoyed this one, even more than I myself expected to.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
July 16, 2019
4.5/5.0
What a sweet and enjoyable turn on the old "Victorian romance" trope! Take the much written about English aristocrat, then throw in a totally American western heroine. But, wait! Let's make the aristocrat a man who ran away at a very young age and made his life in the American west, falls in love and marries said heroine - THEN, discovers his father, and older brother are dead leaving him the Dukedom with responsibilities over a very large estate back in England.
What ensues is a wild, combustible story where both hero and heroine try to navigate upper class English society without losing their down-home American kindness. Then, throw in a bit of intrigue and you have a totally delightful afternoon of reading!
Okay, so the climatic ending to the intrigue is a bit of a stretch... still, bet'cha didn't guess the villain!
What a sweet and enjoyable turn on the old "Victorian romance" trope! Take the much written about English aristocrat, then throw in a totally American western heroine. But, wait! Let's make the aristocrat a man who ran away at a very young age and made his life in the American west, falls in love and marries said heroine - THEN, discovers his father, and older brother are dead leaving him the Dukedom with responsibilities over a very large estate back in England.
What ensues is a wild, combustible story where both hero and heroine try to navigate upper class English society without losing their down-home American kindness. Then, throw in a bit of intrigue and you have a totally delightful afternoon of reading!
Okay, so the climatic ending to the intrigue is a bit of a stretch... still, bet'cha didn't guess the villain!
July 7, 2019
If I was 13...
If I was a 13-year-old dewy-eyed romantic, this would have been a great read. Leaving no romance novel trope unused, Ms. Fyffe gives the reader a novel that moves at a plodding pace, strains credulity, and offers little that is intriguing or entertaining. Every. Single. Character is a cliche.
Bottom line: It gets two stars from me only because the author did manage to surprise me a bit with the revelation of the mischief-making villain of the piece. Apart from that, there’s nothing very interesting to read here.
If I was a 13-year-old dewy-eyed romantic, this would have been a great read. Leaving no romance novel trope unused, Ms. Fyffe gives the reader a novel that moves at a plodding pace, strains credulity, and offers little that is intriguing or entertaining. Every. Single. Character is a cliche.
Bottom line: It gets two stars from me only because the author did manage to surprise me a bit with the revelation of the mischief-making villain of the piece. Apart from that, there’s nothing very interesting to read here.
June 26, 2019
I COULD FEEL YOU WERE DESTINED FOR SOMETHING GREAT
Once again, Ms. Caroline Fyffe has taken her readers on a roller-coaster ride in this emotional journey of family, loss, secrets, new beginnings, and love. While this story will read well as a stand-alone, it is also a continuation from Heart of Mine, book three in the Colorado Heart with the meeting of Emma Brinkman and Beranger North. While this new story is not part of the Colorado Heart series, but an extension of their story it will have them leaving America and is a new beginning in England.
In this story, Emma Brinkman and Beranger Northcott (his tue surname) will be quickly married, following the information that he has inherited the title of Duke of Brightshire and they will leave Colorado and sail to England. The story will encompass the changes and memories that Beranger will face returning to where he lived, even if he was treated poorly by his step-mother. He will meet a half-sister that was born after he left England and worked on board a ship until he made his mark in America.
The story is full of mystery, suspense, danger, secrets, angst, but also has new beginnings, making changes in how things in life turn out. It has a large cast of characters in the English town of Brightshire that will play major roles in this tale. It was always proclaimed the Beranger was illegitimate but how will the people look at him now that the truth is out that his parents had been married and in fact, Gavin was the illegitimate child?
“The people in Brightshire are delighted you’re home. Prove to them their memories of the resilient, clever, and courageous thirteen-year-old boy are correct. Show them you have come back a man, and you have all those qualities and more.”
Not everyone is happy that Beranger has returned, and with an American wife as the new duchess. The dowager duchess was always cruel and hateful to Beranger, and she has groomed her daughter, Lady Audrey to take over the title someday. She is no more than a wolf in sheep’s clothes and just as two-faced as she always had been. But now, her status is changed, and she must rely on Beranger for her well-being. He is more gracious than most people would be considering.
“Fairly and always. Whenever and now.”
The story has the good, the bad, and the ugly in people—and all that will play a part in this tale. With health issues plaguing Beranger, is someone trying to harm him? A critical letter of Emma’s from her father will be stolen from their room. A mystery about the death of the previous Duke, Gavin, will have secrets that could harm others.
The story will have another romance taking place between Charlotte and Tristan and the mystery behind her life will eventually unfold with surprises. While their story isn’t always smooth sailing, it does have several surprises along the way.
Once again, Ms. Caroline Fyffe has taken her readers on a roller-coaster ride in this emotional journey of family, loss, secrets, new beginnings, and love. While this story will read well as a stand-alone, it is also a continuation from Heart of Mine, book three in the Colorado Heart with the meeting of Emma Brinkman and Beranger North. While this new story is not part of the Colorado Heart series, but an extension of their story it will have them leaving America and is a new beginning in England.
In this story, Emma Brinkman and Beranger Northcott (his tue surname) will be quickly married, following the information that he has inherited the title of Duke of Brightshire and they will leave Colorado and sail to England. The story will encompass the changes and memories that Beranger will face returning to where he lived, even if he was treated poorly by his step-mother. He will meet a half-sister that was born after he left England and worked on board a ship until he made his mark in America.
The story is full of mystery, suspense, danger, secrets, angst, but also has new beginnings, making changes in how things in life turn out. It has a large cast of characters in the English town of Brightshire that will play major roles in this tale. It was always proclaimed the Beranger was illegitimate but how will the people look at him now that the truth is out that his parents had been married and in fact, Gavin was the illegitimate child?
“The people in Brightshire are delighted you’re home. Prove to them their memories of the resilient, clever, and courageous thirteen-year-old boy are correct. Show them you have come back a man, and you have all those qualities and more.”
Not everyone is happy that Beranger has returned, and with an American wife as the new duchess. The dowager duchess was always cruel and hateful to Beranger, and she has groomed her daughter, Lady Audrey to take over the title someday. She is no more than a wolf in sheep’s clothes and just as two-faced as she always had been. But now, her status is changed, and she must rely on Beranger for her well-being. He is more gracious than most people would be considering.
“Fairly and always. Whenever and now.”
The story has the good, the bad, and the ugly in people—and all that will play a part in this tale. With health issues plaguing Beranger, is someone trying to harm him? A critical letter of Emma’s from her father will be stolen from their room. A mystery about the death of the previous Duke, Gavin, will have secrets that could harm others.
The story will have another romance taking place between Charlotte and Tristan and the mystery behind her life will eventually unfold with surprises. While their story isn’t always smooth sailing, it does have several surprises along the way.
May 9, 2019
Beranger Northcutt and his American wife Emma have returned to England so he can take his rightful place as the Duke of Brightshire. To say that Emma is nervous would be an understatement. She doesn't know how to be a Duchess and the last thing she wants to do is bring shame and embarrassment to her husband. But she's determined to do her best.
What she didn't expect was to be undermined by her new in-laws at every turn. Sure, they seem nice and helpful when Beranger is around. But the moment he's not? All bets are off. She finds herself seeking solace and strength from not only her husband, but her new friends as well.
But when Beranger suddenly falls ill, Emma not only finds her voice, but her determination as well. She will get to the bottom of what's going on and no one will get in her way. She plans to live a long and happy life with Beranger in their new home in England.
I really enjoyed watching Emma and Beranger get acclimated to their new surroundings. It definitely wasn't easy for them, but they pushed through and refused to let anyone bring them down. I enjoyed the mystery that was woven into the story. I found myself trying to figure out what in the world was going on and who was behind it. Sadly, I felt like there were some things that were left undone in the end. The resolution to the mystery fell a little flat for me. I wanted a just a little bit more.
I have to admit, when I read a book with multiple POV's, I'm used to it only being the hero and heroine. But this book follows two heroes, two heroines, and a couple other POV's thrown into the mix. This is not something I would typically read and had to keep switching from person to person in my head. I've discovered that I'm not a fan of this many POV's.
All in all, I enjoyed An American Duchess and thought it was cute. I'm looking forward to checking out more of Ms. Fyffe's books.
*I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are solely my own.*
What she didn't expect was to be undermined by her new in-laws at every turn. Sure, they seem nice and helpful when Beranger is around. But the moment he's not? All bets are off. She finds herself seeking solace and strength from not only her husband, but her new friends as well.
But when Beranger suddenly falls ill, Emma not only finds her voice, but her determination as well. She will get to the bottom of what's going on and no one will get in her way. She plans to live a long and happy life with Beranger in their new home in England.
I really enjoyed watching Emma and Beranger get acclimated to their new surroundings. It definitely wasn't easy for them, but they pushed through and refused to let anyone bring them down. I enjoyed the mystery that was woven into the story. I found myself trying to figure out what in the world was going on and who was behind it. Sadly, I felt like there were some things that were left undone in the end. The resolution to the mystery fell a little flat for me. I wanted a just a little bit more.
I have to admit, when I read a book with multiple POV's, I'm used to it only being the hero and heroine. But this book follows two heroes, two heroines, and a couple other POV's thrown into the mix. This is not something I would typically read and had to keep switching from person to person in my head. I've discovered that I'm not a fan of this many POV's.
All in all, I enjoyed An American Duchess and thought it was cute. I'm looking forward to checking out more of Ms. Fyffe's books.
*I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are solely my own.*
Read
July 3, 2019I'm dnf'ing at 44%
There seem to be two totally separate romances going on here as well as a couple of mysteries and some family unpleasantness/strife. I found it hard to focus on the characters - the pov changed far too often to allow any real character development and the chapters were very short which didnt allow much in the way of plot development either.
But I actually stopped reading when I realised that I had no real sense of whether this was written as a Regency romance, a Victorian, or some fantasy set in a different world. The language was far too modern and some phrases grated:
"I think we should find somewhere to wait out the storm, since the livery didn't pan out."
"Is there a restaurant or pub in Brightshire? Surely people have to eat?"
The bakeshop kitchen had never felt so cozy. The duke placed several gold coins on the table.
Okay. My thoughts.
I can forgive the 'pan out' phrase, as the Duke had recently returned from America, but would a Duke really use that phrase?
'shire' usually refers to a county, not a town or village. I personally don't know of any towns using the word 'shire' unless in the context of 'hundreds' eg: Leylandshire, Blackburnshire, (which is an ancient term and no longer used) but those were much bigger than a town and covered a much wider area. Brightham, Brightton, Brightwood, Brightburn, Brightpool, Brightland... any of those would have read better.
A Duke would probably say 'Public house' instead of pub.
I struggled with the term 'bakeshop' which I thought of as very American. I think it would have been called a 'bakery' but if it sold pies, then a 'pie-shop' - and again, it all seemed a 'fantasy-world' setting.
Gold coins? Which? Double sovereign, sovereign, half-sovereign?
I gave up. The writing had no real 'historical' feel to it. I kept waiting for the fairy godmother to appear.
There seem to be two totally separate romances going on here as well as a couple of mysteries and some family unpleasantness/strife. I found it hard to focus on the characters - the pov changed far too often to allow any real character development and the chapters were very short which didnt allow much in the way of plot development either.
But I actually stopped reading when I realised that I had no real sense of whether this was written as a Regency romance, a Victorian, or some fantasy set in a different world. The language was far too modern and some phrases grated:
"I think we should find somewhere to wait out the storm, since the livery didn't pan out."
"Is there a restaurant or pub in Brightshire? Surely people have to eat?"
The bakeshop kitchen had never felt so cozy. The duke placed several gold coins on the table.
Okay. My thoughts.
I can forgive the 'pan out' phrase, as the Duke had recently returned from America, but would a Duke really use that phrase?
'shire' usually refers to a county, not a town or village. I personally don't know of any towns using the word 'shire' unless in the context of 'hundreds' eg: Leylandshire, Blackburnshire, (which is an ancient term and no longer used) but those were much bigger than a town and covered a much wider area. Brightham, Brightton, Brightwood, Brightburn, Brightpool, Brightland... any of those would have read better.
A Duke would probably say 'Public house' instead of pub.
I struggled with the term 'bakeshop' which I thought of as very American. I think it would have been called a 'bakery' but if it sold pies, then a 'pie-shop' - and again, it all seemed a 'fantasy-world' setting.
Gold coins? Which? Double sovereign, sovereign, half-sovereign?
I gave up. The writing had no real 'historical' feel to it. I kept waiting for the fairy godmother to appear.
July 6, 2019
This my first book by this author and it felt like I was missing much of the story from the previous books. I still enjoyed the love story, but the rest of the novel just didn't make much sense to me. A lot was going on and the author used several plot techniques to keep you guessing who the culprit was but it felt forced. This is why I don't enjoy mystery romances like this where there is poisoning and misunderstandings, and too many suspicious characters to make the narrative arc interesting but ultimately doesn't deliver a good story. I probably will not be reading this author again. I have realized that when I read romance, I want the romance to take center stage in the book...otherwise I can read mystery books from the actual mystery writers.
May 5, 2019
When Beranger Northcott arrives to take his rightful place as Duke of Brightshire, the entire household is turned on its head by his new wife, Emma. Emma is an American from Colorado. Overnight, she's gone from working on a ranch to being a duchess. Although she wants to do her best to fit into society and with Beranger's family, she finds no welcome from his stepmother and stepsister. Instead, she befriends an orphaned girl named Charlotte, who's taking her cousin's place in as a scullery maid until her cousin is well again. They quickly become close, which is a solace to Emma as she finds the household more and more unfriendly as time goes on. Will Emma ever feel at home in England, or was marrying a duke and sailing away from her family a mistake?
I wanted to like this book, and for the first half, I was enjoying it. I liked Emma and Charlotte a lot. They both had interesting personalities and inner lives. I liked the way Charlotte was unfailingly polite and gracious when people were cruel to her--and they often were. I also liked Emma's relationship with Beranger. You could really see the love and why she'd made the choices that she had.
The problem was, about halfway through, it just seemed too many unbelievable things happened. Without going into too much detail, it was all a little too contrived. I also didn't like the resolutions to either mystery that crops up in the story. The writing also kind of unraveled and the characters became a little samey sounding. It just felt silly and pointless and by the end, I was irritated and glad to be done.
The strength of this novel are the characters and their relationships with each other, but the events and plot are very thin and ultimately enjoyable.
*I got this book as an eARC from Netgalley*
I wanted to like this book, and for the first half, I was enjoying it. I liked Emma and Charlotte a lot. They both had interesting personalities and inner lives. I liked the way Charlotte was unfailingly polite and gracious when people were cruel to her--and they often were. I also liked Emma's relationship with Beranger. You could really see the love and why she'd made the choices that she had.
The problem was, about halfway through, it just seemed too many unbelievable things happened. Without going into too much detail, it was all a little too contrived. I also didn't like the resolutions to either mystery that crops up in the story. The writing also kind of unraveled and the characters became a little samey sounding. It just felt silly and pointless and by the end, I was irritated and glad to be done.
The strength of this novel are the characters and their relationships with each other, but the events and plot are very thin and ultimately enjoyable.
*I got this book as an eARC from Netgalley*
February 27, 2021
I have a bit of a guilty pleasure when it comes to historical romances. I love the heiress trope. Caroline Fyffe’s American Duchess takes the typical heiress trope and flips it a bit. Typically, the duchess is from the northern east coast, usually Boston or the like. In this case, she’s from Colorado, running one of the biggest ranches with her sisters. After falling madly in love with transplanted Englishman Beranger North, she finds herself heading to England with him as the new Duke and Duchess of Brightshire.
Read more at Wicked Cool Flight
Read more at Wicked Cool Flight
April 25, 2019
When you read a book by Caroline Fyffe, you know some things to expect. Always romance but mixed with problems getting there. Mayhem or something like that is always present to make for an interesting story, and characters old and new that fascinate you. Then sometimes some sort of mystery that may or may not happen. This is now my most favorite novel of Ms. Fyffe’s. I would give it twenty starts if I could. That is how good this one is and how it made me feel.
An American Duchess exceeds all that you have known about her stories. If you have read Colorado Hearts series, the first three stories, this is an extension of sorts as Emma and Beranger go to England since he has recently become the Duke of Brightshire. A train trip across America to New York to get on a ship headed to England. Emma is excited but misses her sister’s already since they have never been apart before. This is the beginning of a new adventure or not.
Mystery, murder, poisoning, kidnapping, trying to learn the etiquette of the high born of England and not making mistakes as a new Duchess in a castle that is so huge.
Then the evil step mother and step sister. My oh my, how will they both get known as good Duke and Duchess who will take over and fix whatever Beranger’s dead brother, the last Duke being short lived, what he has done to ruin the finances of the Dukedom.
There is so much that goes on in this story it makes my head spin but also kept me reading from the first page with very little sleep right until an all-nighter to finish because I had to get to the end to see who did what to who and all the surprises that come out.
Don’t miss reading this novel. Ms. Fyffe has weaved a story of unbelievable proportions that my head is still spinning and writing this review which I really wanted to do but I am having a hard time pulling it together without telling too much. There is more in this novel than I have ever read in any other of her novels.
This is highly a recommended one to grab and plan a few long days of reading.
You will not regret on moment of time spent reading this one. I am still trying to figure out how I missed this or that as I usually figure out what is going to happen.
I received an advance copy by the publisher and I am so happy I did.
An American Duchess exceeds all that you have known about her stories. If you have read Colorado Hearts series, the first three stories, this is an extension of sorts as Emma and Beranger go to England since he has recently become the Duke of Brightshire. A train trip across America to New York to get on a ship headed to England. Emma is excited but misses her sister’s already since they have never been apart before. This is the beginning of a new adventure or not.
Mystery, murder, poisoning, kidnapping, trying to learn the etiquette of the high born of England and not making mistakes as a new Duchess in a castle that is so huge.
Then the evil step mother and step sister. My oh my, how will they both get known as good Duke and Duchess who will take over and fix whatever Beranger’s dead brother, the last Duke being short lived, what he has done to ruin the finances of the Dukedom.
There is so much that goes on in this story it makes my head spin but also kept me reading from the first page with very little sleep right until an all-nighter to finish because I had to get to the end to see who did what to who and all the surprises that come out.
Don’t miss reading this novel. Ms. Fyffe has weaved a story of unbelievable proportions that my head is still spinning and writing this review which I really wanted to do but I am having a hard time pulling it together without telling too much. There is more in this novel than I have ever read in any other of her novels.
This is highly a recommended one to grab and plan a few long days of reading.
You will not regret on moment of time spent reading this one. I am still trying to figure out how I missed this or that as I usually figure out what is going to happen.
I received an advance copy by the publisher and I am so happy I did.
July 29, 2019
While An American Duchess purports to be a standalone novel, or possibly the first in a new series, it’s actually the second book about the same couple, Emma and Beranger, who apparently met in a previous book by the author about five sisters from Colorado, before Beranger unexpectedly inherited a duchy and has to return to England to claim it.
The frustrating thing about this book is that the author doesn’t seem to be able to decide what it’s about; is it the story of the original couple, trying to fit into English life despite opposition from enemies seen and unseen, or is it a completely different romance about Charlotte, a young woman who works in a bakery, and her budding romance with Tristen Llewelyn, an assistant gamekeeper with a slightly shady past?
Having finished the book, I still don’t know. Either could have been a good story with enough space devoted to it, but the continuously switching points of view served only to frustrate me, because every time one part of the story got interesting, the point of view would switch to someone from the other couple and I’d lose the thread again.
Every side character in the book read like a caricature, from the mean stepmother (twice) to a mustache-swirling dastardly aristocrat out to steal the heroine’s virtue, except the author couldn’t quite bring herself to write him as actually willing to do anything when push came to shove. And it REALLY frustrates me when American authors try to write romances set in England, particularly with aristocratic characters, and don’t get an actual English proofreader to check their Americanisms and forms of address. ‘Gold coins’ being dropped on the table? Really? This isn’t fantasyland, this is Victorian England, and you can take the time to look up the actual currency if you want to write there, thank you. It’s ‘bakery’, not a ‘bakehouse’ and while the American might possibly get the forms of address wrong, nobody else is EVER going to use the terms ‘Duke’, ‘Duchess’ and especially not ‘Dowager Countess’ as direct forms of address!
If you REALLY want to write in a time period and place you’re not intimately familiar with, either hire an editor who is or do your research. I recommend Susanne Alleyne’s Medieval Underpants and Other Blunders as a good starting point for terms of address and to figure out all the other things you should be considering to avoid annoying readers like myself who despise when authors can’t be bothered to get things right.
Two stars, and you’re only getting that many because there was a really novel method of subtle attack on the hero I hadn’t read before and would never have figured out.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book for review via NetGalley.
The frustrating thing about this book is that the author doesn’t seem to be able to decide what it’s about; is it the story of the original couple, trying to fit into English life despite opposition from enemies seen and unseen, or is it a completely different romance about Charlotte, a young woman who works in a bakery, and her budding romance with Tristen Llewelyn, an assistant gamekeeper with a slightly shady past?
Having finished the book, I still don’t know. Either could have been a good story with enough space devoted to it, but the continuously switching points of view served only to frustrate me, because every time one part of the story got interesting, the point of view would switch to someone from the other couple and I’d lose the thread again.
Every side character in the book read like a caricature, from the mean stepmother (twice) to a mustache-swirling dastardly aristocrat out to steal the heroine’s virtue, except the author couldn’t quite bring herself to write him as actually willing to do anything when push came to shove. And it REALLY frustrates me when American authors try to write romances set in England, particularly with aristocratic characters, and don’t get an actual English proofreader to check their Americanisms and forms of address. ‘Gold coins’ being dropped on the table? Really? This isn’t fantasyland, this is Victorian England, and you can take the time to look up the actual currency if you want to write there, thank you. It’s ‘bakery’, not a ‘bakehouse’ and while the American might possibly get the forms of address wrong, nobody else is EVER going to use the terms ‘Duke’, ‘Duchess’ and especially not ‘Dowager Countess’ as direct forms of address!
If you REALLY want to write in a time period and place you’re not intimately familiar with, either hire an editor who is or do your research. I recommend Susanne Alleyne’s Medieval Underpants and Other Blunders as a good starting point for terms of address and to figure out all the other things you should be considering to avoid annoying readers like myself who despise when authors can’t be bothered to get things right.
Two stars, and you’re only getting that many because there was a really novel method of subtle attack on the hero I hadn’t read before and would never have figured out.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book for review via NetGalley.
July 10, 2019
Where do I start with this? Oh my. I would have given 1 star, but felt compelled to give it a second for the entertainment value it gave me - probably not in the way the author intended.
There’s been numerous reviews of the actual story so I won’t bother repeating. It’s marketed as a Victorian romance with a bit of a mystery involved - set in England!
My first twitch was the name Brightshire. Shire is used for entire counties, not towns, villages, etc etc.
The amount of Americanisms and modern day language - in a setting that seemed to be a mix of Victorian, Regency and modern. I could accept the Duke and Duchess using American terms, but an English character referring to “cents”? ( Charlotte).
Speaking of Charlotte, she was remarkably well spoken for being brought up slaving in a bakery. Bakery - not bakehouse!
And then we get to the numerous plot contrivances.
The wicked stepmother - ( semi duplicated with the wicked aunt)
A version of the Cinderella story ( Charlotte) albeit without the wicked step sisters
The Victorian seducer - at this point I got the giggles imagining Justin twirling his moustaches like a comedy villain)
The good man, Tristan, with a slightly shady past which makes him feel unworthy.
The baddie - entirely obvious who this was going to be, but points for an interesting method targeting the hero.
The “Purloined Letter”, also duplicated with the purloined invitations. At this point I also laughed, imagining the ‘snooty duchess’ getting extremely dusty/covered in feathers.
And then ....
The gallant Americans arriving in the nick of time to save the day ( the ball) ..... laughing myself silly.
Redeeming qualities? Well, I quite liked the main characters although there was very little character development, it was all rather shallow.
I won’t be reading anything else by this author.
There’s been numerous reviews of the actual story so I won’t bother repeating. It’s marketed as a Victorian romance with a bit of a mystery involved - set in England!
My first twitch was the name Brightshire. Shire is used for entire counties, not towns, villages, etc etc.
The amount of Americanisms and modern day language - in a setting that seemed to be a mix of Victorian, Regency and modern. I could accept the Duke and Duchess using American terms, but an English character referring to “cents”? ( Charlotte).
Speaking of Charlotte, she was remarkably well spoken for being brought up slaving in a bakery. Bakery - not bakehouse!
And then we get to the numerous plot contrivances.
The wicked stepmother - ( semi duplicated with the wicked aunt)
A version of the Cinderella story ( Charlotte) albeit without the wicked step sisters
The Victorian seducer - at this point I got the giggles imagining Justin twirling his moustaches like a comedy villain)
The good man, Tristan, with a slightly shady past which makes him feel unworthy.
The baddie - entirely obvious who this was going to be, but points for an interesting method targeting the hero.
The “Purloined Letter”, also duplicated with the purloined invitations. At this point I also laughed, imagining the ‘snooty duchess’ getting extremely dusty/covered in feathers.
And then ....
The gallant Americans arriving in the nick of time to save the day ( the ball) ..... laughing myself silly.
Redeeming qualities? Well, I quite liked the main characters although there was very little character development, it was all rather shallow.
I won’t be reading anything else by this author.
March 19, 2021
I enjoyed the beginning, getting to know the characters, and reading about a young woman from Colorado suddenly becoming a Duchess. There was more than one story happening in the book. I liked the other characters and their story, but at times it all jumbled together for me. I think I would have enjoyed them as separate stories a little more.
There are a few mysteries happening. Someone has stolen a letter from the Duchesses father, it suspected the Duke is being poisoned, and the past Duke was apparently murdered. Everyone is suspect.
The reason I gave this story 3 stars instead of 4 is that there was almost too much going on in the story that it felt weighed down. I still would like to read how the Duke and Duchess met and fell in love. It is in a previous story, Heart of Mine.
Source: I requested a copy from Netgalley a couple of years ago. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
There are a few mysteries happening. Someone has stolen a letter from the Duchesses father, it suspected the Duke is being poisoned, and the past Duke was apparently murdered. Everyone is suspect.
The reason I gave this story 3 stars instead of 4 is that there was almost too much going on in the story that it felt weighed down. I still would like to read how the Duke and Duchess met and fell in love. It is in a previous story, Heart of Mine.
Source: I requested a copy from Netgalley a couple of years ago. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
June 29, 2019
Love!
Love love love this book! Couldn’t stop reading it! It took I a turn I was not expecting which is unusual for me! Great writing!
Love love love this book! Couldn’t stop reading it! It took I a turn I was not expecting which is unusual for me! Great writing!
July 10, 2021
3 1/2 stars
September 20, 2025
A wonderful bright romance with alittle mystery thrown in.
June 27, 2019
Excellent story!
Wonderful addition to a great series! I have enjoyed all of them and this one is great! How will Emma relate to the world of English nobility? With grace and western charm! Great read!
Wonderful addition to a great series! I have enjoyed all of them and this one is great! How will Emma relate to the world of English nobility? With grace and western charm! Great read!
Want to read
June 28, 2019While I've always enjoyed Caroline Fyffe's western romances I was curious to see how her stories would work when she mixed her American West characters with British royalty. Judging by this book, I think it's a success. When Emma suddenly finds herself married to the new Duke, she has a lot of adjustments to make and lots of learning to do. Sadly, Emma finds herself closer with the staff and lower levels of society than her newfound peers which only causes more problems for Emma. Fans of Downtown Abbey are sure to enjoy this spin off of the Colorado Hearts series as Caroline Fyffe introduces a whole new set of characters.
June 26, 2019
This story had a number of events happening. The new duke and duchess had arrived and were settling into their new life. This wasn’t easy as they had a spiteful stepmother to contend with. I did like it when the duchess came into her own and put others in their place. There was also a romance with the baker called Charlotte and either the assistant gamekeeper or the duke’s cousin. In addition to this, there was a murder to investigate, the mystery of Charlotte’s parents and visitors from America and someone with a vengeance. Charlotte also has to contend with jealousy from workmates and relations. However this was a good paced, entertaining read. I received a copy and have voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 21, 2020
It is hard to imagine what it would be like to be an American and suddenly be thrust into a role as a Duchess in England. It doesn't matter if it was during the time period in this story or today when Prince Harry married his American Duchess. This is a well written book, with a great story line and character development. I give thanks to the author for her ability to write a book that captures the readers interest from the very beginning.
June 28, 2019
As always I enjoy any book by Caroline Fyffe. This one was a nice surprise. Set in England instead of the west and I thought it was beautifully written. The attention to detail, the family dynamics were great. The twists and turns this story took were unexpected and kept me on the egde of my seat. I never expected the outcome! And it was nice to see Emma and Beranger in a new setting. And seeing a new couple, another sweet love story blossom is just icing on the cake.
Everything was new and a little frightening for Emma. A small town girl was now a duchess. And had not a clue what was expected of her. But her humble ways and charming spirit win over the household quickly. All but Beranger's stepmother. I don't think anything could wipe the frown off of that face. The outright hatred Emma feels from her towards her husband is a red flag and when Berenger begins getting sick, only one person comes to mind.
Beranger is happy to be back home. To see all of his old friends and the ones he considers family. All he wants is to be good to his people and help in any way he can. And love Emma and any children they might have forever. But disturbing happenings are occurring and his fears grow. Can he keep Emma safe with his sudden sickness hitting him? What is happeneing to him? With only his trusted ones by his side he must find the answer to these problems and more. Can't wait to see more from Caroline!!
Everything was new and a little frightening for Emma. A small town girl was now a duchess. And had not a clue what was expected of her. But her humble ways and charming spirit win over the household quickly. All but Beranger's stepmother. I don't think anything could wipe the frown off of that face. The outright hatred Emma feels from her towards her husband is a red flag and when Berenger begins getting sick, only one person comes to mind.
Beranger is happy to be back home. To see all of his old friends and the ones he considers family. All he wants is to be good to his people and help in any way he can. And love Emma and any children they might have forever. But disturbing happenings are occurring and his fears grow. Can he keep Emma safe with his sudden sickness hitting him? What is happeneing to him? With only his trusted ones by his side he must find the answer to these problems and more. Can't wait to see more from Caroline!!
June 25, 2019
I LOVED the book. So different then what I expected. This book is continued from the Five Sisters (Colorado Hearts Series). Emma Brinkman married Beranger Northcott and on the wedding day he was advised by his Uncle Harry that he was next in line...and was now the Duke of Brightshire. They travel from the Colorado to Kent, England. There were a lot of changes and challenges to overcome and to deal with.....especially since they were newlyweds.
I loved the friendship between Emma and Charlotte. Emma Brinkman Northcott handled her new Step-mother-in-law and Sister-in-law better than I would have (LOL)… her open heart and caring nature with the servants and all the people she had met. How she handled her new friendships and her patience’s with her enemies. Throughout the book the true love of the Duke and Duchess is amazing. I look forward to the rest of this series to see where Caroline Fyffe takes these characters.
I loved Caroline’s books and series and I must say that I’m looking forward to the rest of this series...... this book is a must read and you will not be disappointed.
I loved the friendship between Emma and Charlotte. Emma Brinkman Northcott handled her new Step-mother-in-law and Sister-in-law better than I would have (LOL)… her open heart and caring nature with the servants and all the people she had met. How she handled her new friendships and her patience’s with her enemies. Throughout the book the true love of the Duke and Duchess is amazing. I look forward to the rest of this series to see where Caroline Fyffe takes these characters.
I loved Caroline’s books and series and I must say that I’m looking forward to the rest of this series...... this book is a must read and you will not be disappointed.
July 12, 2019
I really couldn't get into this book and kept putting it down and reading other books. I did however finish it. I don't know if I would have enjoyed it more having read the previous story that included Emma and Beranger...
This is my first book by Fyffe. I'll probably pick up another one to give her another shot, but it won't be anytime soon.
This is my first book by Fyffe. I'll probably pick up another one to give her another shot, but it won't be anytime soon.
June 28, 2019
I received this Advance Review Copy in exchange for an honest review by Netgalley and Montlake romance. Thank you!!!
“Time is your friend,” Emma said “Never say never”
“Beranger, your pain I’ll see, And my revenge will be completely”
Review
An American Duchess is the extension of the “Colorado hearts series” by the author which focuses on the life of the five sisters, whereas “An America Duchess” concentrates on a particular character Emma Brinkman exclusively, one of the sisters from the series. In spite of all the three prequels up in the line it can also be read as a stand-alone novel without feeling confused or bumpy.
This story elaborately talks about the life of royal family, their legacy, tradition and their way of life. It absolutely gives the complete aroma of the vintage royal life, it has been written in such a way that the readers would instantly time travel to that period in a jiffy. The difficulties faced by the protagonist Emma, when suddenly transformed from a common American to the Duchess of Brightshire out of nowhere has been portrayed in greater depth. And the struggles of adjusting to a new life, new place with new set of responsibilities and of course the untiring homesickness she feels, has been written pragmatically nonetheless. The soothing and loving behavior of her brand new husband Duke Beranger was bestowing, the way he made her feel was worth all the difficultly she faces in the new continent.
On the other hand a commoner and scullery maid Charlotte Aldridge who has always been treated third-rated-ly by her aunt Ethel all her life finds happiness and a different way of living from the palace and the friendly new duchess. Her romance sequences with Tristen Llewellyn the game keeper’s nephew was ravishing, this piece of mild romance will kindle and awake the romantic personality in anybody.
The backstories of all these characters has been developed sagaciously. The friendship and trust between all the four characters that is, the duke, duchess, Charlotte and Tristen was beautifully processed and implemented. This foursome in the book was cool and unique, they all really made a good team. Then the ruthless characters like dowager duchess and aunt Ethel helped to understand the characteristic of the protagonists perfectly and more personally. There were lot of enchanting and worthy supporting characters like Mathilda, Verity, Margaret, Lady Audrey, Justin, Trevor, KT etcetra. Everybody was so good and they helped greatly in building up the plot. Without these characters the story wouldn’t have been as good as it is right now.
The confusion, doubts, twist, mystery, threat which all revolves around the palace was developed brick by brick. And at the end when it all unwrapped it was quite unexpected and well nice too. To talk about the writing it was easy and effortless which really helped in reading the book faster. It is feel good book.
My views
I din’t read the previous books in the series but still it was good to read, it’s an absolute stand-alone novel so don’t worry if you haven’t read the previous books. And I liked the book, it was like living a fantasy and it felt good. My favorite part in this book was the ball organised for welcoming Beranger as the Duke of Brightshire and all romance part between Charlotte and Tristen was adorable.
So this book is perfect for this summer, I’m so happy the book is being released at the perfect time. I recommend this book to everybody who believes in fairy-tale, romance and loves feel good book. This book is definitely for you people.
My rating for this book is 3.5/5
Happy Reading Folks!!!
~Meenu
Displaying 1 - 30 of 231 reviews