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Tales of Magnificent Ladies #1

Capturing the Viscount's Heart

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A Clean & Sweet Regency Historical Romance Novel

She has always been his heart.
He has always been her dream.
Nothing will keep them apart.

Helena Leeson always knew where she wanted to spend her life: by Elias Repington’s side, the childhood friend who has now grown into so much more in her heart. Her father’s actions, however, plunge her family into a scandal with dire consequences for all. Will anything be left once this ordeal is over or are her dreams lost to her forever?

Elias Repington, the Viscount of Chatleton, returns from Cambridge to find his childhood friend turned into a woman that steals his breath away. Now, he must undertake the most crucial mission of his life: solve the mystery that destroys her family, before it’s too late. Will he succeed in thwarting this disaster before it robs him of everything he ever wished for?

Two halves of the same heart, Elias and Helena must fight to uncover the cruel conspiracy that threatens to separate them forever. Will they manage to save their dreams and the people they love before everything turns to ashes? The clock is ticking…


If you like engaging characters, heart- wrenching twists and turns, and lots of romance, then you’ll love “Capturing the Viscount's Heart!”

Buy “Capturing the Viscount's Heart” and unlock the exciting story of Helena today!

379 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 9, 2019

431 people are currently reading
128 people want to read

About the author

Abby Ayles

141 books704 followers
Abby Ayles was born in the northern city of Manchester, England, but currently lives in Charleston, South Carolina, with her husband and their three cats. She holds a Master’s degree in History and Arts and worked as a history teacher in middle school.

Her greatest interest lies in the era of Regency and Victorian England and Abby shares her love and knowledge of these periods with many readers in her newsletter.

In addition to this she has also written her first romantic novel, The Duke's Secrets, which is set in the era and is available for free on her website. As one reader commented – ‘Abby’s writing makes you travel back in time…’

When she has time to herself, Abby enjoys going to the theatre, reading and watching documentaries about Regency and Victorian England.

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5 stars
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61 (22%)
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31 (11%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews
246 reviews
October 10, 2020
A sweet, prolonged romance with a happy ending

Of course, a romance wouldn't be complete without a happy ending. It was a nice read, but my one comment on it is that it was very long. Maybe that's just my opinion, but I prefer the romance to the intrigue, and this book was a lot of intrigue and little romance. Nonetheless, it was a pleasant read, I would not have continued it otherwise. I enjoyed the characters and the story, the author did a very good job of laying the story out piece by piece, leaving nothing out in her descriptions and storytelling. It was nice to see that much attention to detail, but I would recommend to the author to look at what parts of the story, given the amount of detail, can be left out, and to see if she can more subtly lay out the breadcrumbs rather than explicitly state them sometimes. I enjoyed the writing and the story, and will continue with the series to read more characters story with the splendid writing. Overall, 4 out of 5 stars.
Profile Image for Chaos.
3,552 reviews115 followers
December 15, 2020
I think I have found a new favorite author. This story was just as awesome as the previous stories I have read from Abby ❤ i love that there is so much romance and tension but that its clean and appropriate. As much as I love smut, its nice to read books without it but with just as much romance and intrigue! Beautiful writing and scenery! Helena is everything a lady should be and im so glad she was raised to the station of a Viscountess. No one deserved it more for how loyal and kind she was to her family and to others who shu nned her because of her father. So glad her dad was proved innocent in the end and that everything turned out OK. Hopefully Beatrice will get her happy ending. Seems like the new Duke is quite taken with her after reading the extended epilogue
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
3,261 reviews34 followers
March 17, 2019
Capturing the Viscount's Heart by Abby Ayles is an endearing story from true love from childhood on. Although it is unlikely that a Earl and a tradesman, however prosperous, would remain lifelong friends, let alone consider marriage between their offspring, that is the crux of this story. When Helena Leeson is 14, her childhood affection for her friend, Elias, begins to turn into a more mature love. He leaves for school and is gone for four years. She spends those four years maturing and learning and when he returns home, he is astounded to find his childhood friend has become a beautiful woman. Helena's father is the proprietor of a jewelry house but always looking to better himself he invests a great deal of money in an Italian banking enterprise, also acting as their agent in acquiring other investors. Without warning the investment turns sour and a great many people have lost a good deal of money. This, of course, includes Helena's father. Her father's friend, the Earl of Wismoth and his son Elias are there to help their friend in their time of need, including investing in and saving the business, leaving their friend at its helm. All is going well until Mr. Leeson is abruptly arrested for embezzlement and thrown into Newgate. Elias and his father, the Earl, are in Italy so they don't arrive home immediately. When they do they plunge headlong into investigating, knowing that Leeson is innocent. Leeson is so angry and miserable in prison that he forbids any interaction between the two families. Can this situation be resolved?

Capturing the Viscount's Heart is intricately plotted an interesting to read. There are many characters and settings to the story and some people behave oddly, but that is what makes the story, isn't it? Helena is a proper Regency heroine, able to think for herself but remain true to those around her. Elias is a gentleman, careful of the feelings of others and polite at all costs. They manage to work toward a solution, with some detours, and mostly individually, trying to obey Leeson's edict. Helena's mother spends a great deal of time ill in bed, which is mostly how Regency mothers deal with adversity. The word stress is used often in this story, which is not appropriate, as it was not used at the time. But all in all Capturing the Viscount's Heart is an intriguing and well-written book with good characters and a relatively realistic plot. I recommend it.

I received a free ARC of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.

Profile Image for Emma.
2,864 reviews38 followers
March 14, 2019
Loved, loved, loved this book. It is filled with shocking distress, false accusations, realistic feelings and emotions. The story starts innocently and looks into the life of two lifelong friends, Helena and Elias. After four years away from home Elias returns to a full-grown Helena. He is enchanted and begins to realize his feelings for her surpass his friendship. From the time she was fourteen Helena had been in love with Elias but did not fully understand those feelings till she grew into a young woman. Then tragedy strikes Helena's family and their fall from grace was unimaginable. Elias and his father, being lifelong friends of the family, came to their rescue. It cost the pride of her father who tried not to feel beholden to his oldest friend. Just when things were straightening out, Helena's father was arrested and thrown into Newgate prison for a crime he did not commit. Unfortunately, this caused a rift between their fathers. Helena's father forbade his family to have anything to do with Elias and his father. It caused anguish and pain between Helena and Elias as they cared for each other. The story covers the disgrace and shame that followed Helena and her family. Elias and his father believed in Helena's father innocence. Elias would not rest until he had done everything to clear their name. Helena went through h*ll as her own cousin had no concern for her and disparaged her and her family to one and all. I liked Helena's character. She has a good head on her shoulder, she is modest and humble, outgoing and adores the outdoors. She is someone her family can depend on. Although the strain is felt keenly by her. Elias is a quiet unassuming young man. He too is kind, thoughtful and humble. Together, Helena and Elias are a good match. Their day may never come as Helena feels her family's disgrace will keep Elias from ever pursuing her. Elias fears the day may never come when Helena would accept his suit. Such a conundrum. I found that when the characters were happy, I was happy. When they were shocked so was I. When things were desperate, I felt it. When all hope looked lost, my heart went out to them. This is truly a wonderful book of trust and enduring love and friendship. A must read. I highly recommend it.
Profile Image for Margaret Watkins.
3,553 reviews88 followers
March 19, 2019
A sweet but suspenseful romance, the story opens up with childhood friends recognising that change is in the air. Helena Leeson faithfully writes to Elias as he is away at university, guarding her heart and keeping it safe for his return. Upon seeing the grown-up Helena, Elias is taken aback and realises that his heart is more involved than he thought. Unfortunately, disaster strikes Helena's family and although Elias and his father do everything in their power to mitigate the damages, the fallout is bigger than they suspected. As distrust and betrayal brew up a storm, Elias continues to fight for the Leeson family but his efforts aren't immediately recognised. Just when Elias thinks he is at risk of losing Helena altogether, he finally gets the breakthrough he needs, but it may be too late. The story is complex with numerous characters. Elias is a warm-hearted and honourable man with his heart set on Helena. Helena is torn between family loyalties and her feelings for Elias, especially when she is once more thrown into his company. However, this is a love that cannot be destroyed. The story is slow moving in parts although it does take on a dramatic turn in the last third of the book. The romance is clean and can be read by young adults. It is also a standalone and does come to a happy conclusion.
109 reviews1 follower
March 28, 2019
This is a very good story. Of course since it is a romance story there is love, but there is also a mystery that takes a while to unravel.

Helena Leeson and Elias Repington, Viscount of Chatleton, literally grew-up together. Elias is a few years older but had spent time and played with Helena since she was born. The story starts with Helena and Elias visiting before Elias leaves for Cambridge for the next four years.

Because Elias’ father, Lord Wismoth, and Mr. Leeson had been schoolmates at Oxford and had developed a strong friendship the Leesons were frequent visitors at Belwell Manor.

When Elias returned from Cambridge he was surprised by the beautiful woman who was a child when he left.

Shortly after Elias’ return from school the Leesons’ life changes dramatically when Mr. Leeson is ruined by a conspiracy. Elias works to solve the mystery of whom and why Mr. Leeson was framed.

I enjoyed reading a story where there was not parent objection to a marriage between their son and a woman of no rank.

Who was Ambrose?
How old was Helena when Elias went off to school for four years?
When Helena’s father took over management of Leeson’s Goldsmith & Jewelers what generation was he?
Why was Mr. Leeson framed?

I received a copy story as for an honest review.
Profile Image for Sharon.
1,049 reviews2 followers
March 14, 2019
Helena Leeson and Elias Repington, the Viscount of Chatleton have been good buddies since childhood. When her father looses everything due to bad investments, Elias promises to help any way he can. When Elias and his father purchases the Leeson's London home and the family business so Helena's family can stay in their home and keep the family business, her father becomes bitter. After Helena's father is arrested for embezzlement, he becomes even more bitter and forbids Helena, her sister Beatrice, and their mother to have anything to do with Elias and his father. Helena is torn between her family and her love for Elias. Elias is confused and wants to help Helena's family, but they refuse to accept it. Who is responsible for framing Helena's father? Can Elias find the perpetrator before its too late? Will Elias and Helena find love with each other or will be destined to be separated from each other forever? Find out by reading this not to be missed book. It will keep you on the edge of seat. Even though no was given a copy of this book it in no way influenced my review of this book.
206 reviews2 followers
March 19, 2019
Seeking truth, justice and love

Elias and Helena's father's were best friends and close as brothers and the families were close because of this.
When Helena's father loses money 💰he had been entrusted to invest for others, his friend and Elias stepped in and helped him by buying his company and setting him up as the manager. While Elias and his father are out of the country, Ambrose is accused of embezzlement and arrested.
When they return from their trip, they visit him at Newgate Prison. Due to miscommunication between them and Ambrose, he tells them that he never wants to see them again and stay away from his family.
True friends that stick to seeking the truth even after bitter words spoken to them even when they despair of finding the culprit that was the true thief, their belief in their friend Ambrose's innocence remains constant. Elias had made a promise to Helena that he would do anything and everything he could to help her family, but until her father was free he couldn't declare his feelings for her and ask her to marry him.
Profile Image for Kaye.
7,177 reviews69 followers
March 15, 2019
AN ABSOLUTE THRILL RIDE!!!
Wow! Talk about unpredictable. Abby works her magic with this little gem. A whirlwind of activities along with a plethora of emotions that will rock you to the core. All the trials and tribulations a fascinating storyline and explosive plot bring this little gem roaring to life flawlessly. The characters chemistry is intense and palpable. The characters were intriguing, complex and so realistic it feels like you can just reach out and touch them. The scenes were so vividly detailed and descriptive that it gives the illusion you were right there in the middle of ground zero with them. Twists and turns abound with unexpected surprises that will keep you spellbound and anxious for what's around the next corner. All the drama, uncertainty and danger along with suspense and you have one incredible experience. Remarkable job Abby, thanks for sharing this bad boy with us.
Profile Image for Sheree K.
172 reviews5 followers
March 17, 2019
Family means everything

This is a wonderful read. The descriptions allow you to visualize the scenery and the fashions. Helena's father had a Jewelry business in London that did well for the family until he made some questionable investments and lost it all. Not only his money but several others' money as he had acted as an agent for a bank. His very good friend bought his business and had him manage it so he could repay his debts. All was well until he was arrested for embezzlement and taken directly to prison to await his trial. The rest of the story was on getting to the bottom of who it was that framed him, why, and then proving it. There were twists that added to the mystery and a HEA ending. There is also an extended epilogue taking up about 5 yrs later which was good, but I felt it ended too abruptly.

I received an ARC from the author. This is my voluntary review. Thanks Abby!
Profile Image for Judy Munoz.
320 reviews2 followers
March 14, 2019
I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book. This is another wonderful historical romance from this author. Beautifully and expressively written, the story transports the reader to the regency period in all it’s glory. This is a clean romance and accurately depicts the era in both speech and mannerisms. The story itself is complex and well thought out, with many twists and turns along the way, making for a highly enjoyable read. The characters are wonderfully created and completely appropriate for the era, from the beautiful and strong willed heroine, Helena, to the charming and steadfast hero, Elias. And the gentle romance throughout is simply divine! At times heartwarming, at times heartbreaking and always hopeful, this story tugs at the heartstrings and is a truly enjoyable read.
Profile Image for Sharon.
717 reviews7 followers
March 16, 2019
Elias comes home from Cambridge to find Helena Leeson all grown up. He finds himself thinking differently about her. She has felt different towards him since she was 14. But didn't know what she felt was love at that time. Helena's father invested a lot of money. The investment was a big risk and turned out badly. He had also talked others into investing. Elias and his father gave him their support and stood by him. However, he ended up being put in prison for a crime he didn't commit. Elias did everything he could to help as he and his father believed him to be innocent. Will Helena and Elias ever get together? This story is a roller coaster ride of twists and turns, suspense, danger, revenge, mystery, trust and more than one storyline. Very well written!! Get a copy and come along on this ride. You'll be glad you did.
148 reviews2 followers
April 18, 2019
It seems that I read the second book first so I basically knew she captured his heart and knew their history. I read the Curse of of the Odd Duke first so that is where I got the information from but didn't know all until I read this novel. I would advise readers to read this one first.
There is family history that lead to the second novel and it was wonderful.
Two families unite and are dedicated to each other and their friendship. However, when the trouble arise, friendships did falter but in the end restored. Love brought them all together through their children's love for each other.
It is well written full of a who done it, suspense, a little mystery, sickness, wrong accusing, jealousy, and sadness before the mystery was solved.
This story kept you wondering and then all was well after the in the end.
Well written and I enjoyed it.

177 reviews2 followers
March 14, 2019
I don’t know where to begin! This one had it all. Although at times the heroine allowed her sister to influence her actions she was definitely no doormat. I loved the scenes where she stood up for herself to her nasty cousin. The cousin does come to her senses eventually as does the heroines sister. It was so hard at times to keep from throwing my kindle when Elias and Helena would avoid each other because of other people’s actions. I missed the villain completely until he was revealed. This is something that rarely happens. I only wish her father had been released sooner. Thank you again Abby Ayles.
Profile Image for Afiya.
15 reviews
December 29, 2022
Lovely read, considerably longer then expected. Unique in its story and it revolves around star crossed lovers who have know eachother early on in childhood. They’re young love evolves from loving eachother as siblings to something more but as true romance should be they are kept apart to first endure time apart. Much hurt, betrayel and wrath from sn unknown villian and other stupid people keep them apart for longer then I predicted. The lead characters were played by these actors in my mind. Elias: Henry Cavill, Helena: Dakota Johnson. Mrs Leesson: Emma Thomson. Beatrice: Kate Winslet. Mr. Leesson: Hugh Grant and The Earl: Russel Crowe
Profile Image for Elda.
1,203 reviews6 followers
March 14, 2019
So many surprises!

The beginning of this book shows the lighthearted relationships with friends and a possible future courtship between the two main characters. Then suddenly tragedy strikes and the relationships became frayed. Such triggered animosity which was heart wrenching. I truly felt the anger, melancholy, and helplessness of the two sisters, Beatrice and Helena. Ms Ayles truly knows how to portray her characters and give them depth. I was elated at how things worked out. So many surprises throughout the book but a very satisfying HEA.
53 reviews
March 17, 2019
Lasting friendship to lasting love ( with a little drama in the middle)

The two main characters Helena and Elias were childhood best friends and when Elias came back from school he realized what a lovely woman she'd grown into. Helena's' father had some financial trouble which leads Elias to try to solve the mystery of who's trying to ruin Helenas' family. I liked Helena and Elias' relationship. He was ever enduring and faithful to Helena. Abby always writes page turners and I can not wait for the next. Also, for a little extra after download the extended epilogue.
Profile Image for Holly Lenz.
928 reviews2 followers
March 14, 2019
A sweet story of friendship and love.

Capturing the Viscount’s Heart is a sweet period love story centered around friendship. The couple are childhood friends whose friendship blossoms into more. The families are lifelong friends whose friendship is tested to the brink by fate and misfortune. The story keeps the reader turning pages, but there is never any doubt that love prevail.
Profile Image for Marissa.
3,576 reviews47 followers
March 14, 2019
Kindle Copy for Review

Childhood friends now grown now find themselves in love with each other. Unfortunately a family scandal on her side might destroy them as it will ruin her father. It will be upto the two of them to work together and figure things before it comes to light.

As they spend more time together their feelings get stronger. What will happen to them afterwards? A sweet story of love.
Profile Image for Debra Floyd.
417 reviews1 follower
February 24, 2021
Great historical

Once I started reading I could not put down. I have learned to not start reading a book like this at 2 AM. I was glued to reading it and never went to sleep.

The trials and tribulations that Helene and her family went through were very well written and interesting.

Elias and is father we’re very intertwined with Helene’s family. You will have to read to find out all about them..
40 reviews
March 15, 2019
Great Read with Multiple Storylines

This book was very interesting with several storylines woven through it. Some of the storylines were frustrating because I felt anxious for the characters involved. This, of course, propelled me to continue reading as quickly as I could to discover the outcomes! Very well written!!
10 reviews
March 15, 2019
A sweet read

I give this book 3 stars. The hero and heroine are a little too syrupy for me. I did enjoy the trust they both had for each other and how they wouldn't allow others to break their belief in each other and the closeness they have with their families. I would recommend this book to readers who enjoy a wholesome read with a touch of romance.
1,832 reviews12 followers
March 15, 2019
This is a long book but worth reading. There are lots of twists & turns, sadness, rejection, accusations, mystery. I couldn't figure out the bad guy till it was revealed. Wasn't sure there would be an HEA either. I am amazed that Abby can think up all the things she puts into a book. Truly amazing to me.
I received an ARC of this book. This is my honest, voluntary review.
Profile Image for Janice.
73 reviews3 followers
March 17, 2019
This is not the first book l have read by the author and won't be the last! She writes a description without being verbose. The story centers around two families who through the years grow close, esp. the son of one and daughter of another. The story has some surprises which l won't give away, but suffice it to say this book has some page turning chapters. Can't wait for the next book!
Profile Image for Tracy Fritts.
1,476 reviews36 followers
April 4, 2019
This is a sweet romance between Elias and Helena. They were enjoyable characters to read about. They began as childhood friends than Elias came back and their live began to grow. This story had a lot of ups and downs. It was well written and a good storyline.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
5,393 reviews67 followers
September 23, 2019
Capturing the Discounts Heart A Clean&,Sweet Regency Historical Romance

Avery wonderful and enjoyable story about Helena and Elias and the fact that Helena's father is framed for embezzlement and sent to jail but Elias does not give up on him as Beatrice lost her love because of it.Love wins and happiness is achieved Abby nails this book and extended epilogue
Profile Image for Courtney.
4,298 reviews
October 18, 2019
Okay

I don't know if it's just because I had such a connection to a previously read book, or if I just am not in the mood for a novel such as this one- but I did not feel the pull to this novel that I normally do when I am reading a new novel. I will definitely have to try again later.
Profile Image for Lenna  Wright.
3,399 reviews35 followers
March 24, 2020
It’s a 3.5 star for me.
The reason is I didn’t feel connection between the main characters nor to the reader. Never held my attention! Also it seem like it was all in third person POV which throw me off. It’s was a good story but it took me days to read a book that should have been one day, which is why it took days to read.
441 reviews
December 12, 2022
To think a whole family suffers due to one person’s mistakes. Even if innocent, one is thought guilty. The trails both of these young people go through to be able to get back together was interesting reading. Both main characters have a quiet strength that shines throughout the story. Enjoyed meeting these two families.
Profile Image for Delbora.
1,460 reviews6 followers
March 13, 2019
Loved This Book

This story is so drama filled. It is full of mystery, romance and strong characters exhibiting the best strength. I read it as fast as I could because it was too interesting to put down.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews

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