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Her Duke in Shining Armor

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So dark, so deep, the secrets that you keep…

Eleanor Stanley, daughter of the Duke of Brisdane, is certainly not the apple of her father’s eye.

Rebellious and blatantly outspoken about her dislike for the hypocrisy of the ton, she’s earned herself not only a bluestocking reputation but also the nickname ‘Lady Disdain.”

Aaron Bravolt, Duke of Oberton, never expected to catch one Lady Eleanor sneaking a servant child out at night in order to spare her from her father’s wrath. But his determination to decrypt the puzzling lady has consequences he couldn’t have foreseen.

With his own assets under attack by a mysterious adversary, Aaron has only eighteen hours to discover what really happened to the Duke of Brisdane’s late wife and to keep Eleanor from being taken away from him forever.

303 pages, Kindle Edition

First published June 8, 2019

517 people are currently reading
75 people want to read

About the author

Emma Linfield

112 books82 followers
Emma Linfield has always been passionate about historical romances. Ever fascinated with the world of Regency England and being utmost inspired by Jane Austen and Georgette Heyer’s work, she decided she wanted to write her own stories. Stories of love and tradition being mixed in the most appealing way for every hopeless romantic, much like herself.

Born and raised in Southern California, Emma Linfield has a degree in Creative Writing and English Literature, and she has been working as a freelance writer for the past 10 years. When she isn’t writing, Emma loves spending her time with her own prince charming and two beautiful children, all the while enjoying the famous Californian sun and ocean.

So, hop on to this exciting journey of Dukes, Earls and true love with Emma and find pleasure in the old fashioned world of Regency - an Era of pure romance, elegance and high fashion!

(Source: Official Website)

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5 stars
105 (48%)
4 stars
63 (29%)
3 stars
36 (16%)
2 stars
7 (3%)
1 star
6 (2%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
Profile Image for Mary.
2,753 reviews23 followers
June 13, 2019
This is entertaining, romantic, suspenseful and dramatic. The first time Aaron and Eleanor met, he falled her a tomboy. The second time they met, he called her a spoiled tomboy. Now that she's fully grown he finds her fascinating, but irritating as well. Eleanor hates Aaron for the way he's treated her, but when a new friend asks her if she really does, she rethinks her feelings. It turns out that both are feeling an attraction, and both find the other irritating. While they are trying to figure out their relationship, a man that Aaron ticked off is looking to get revenge against him. Eleanor's father seems to be hiding a secret, and when Eleanor stumbles upon it her whole world is turned upside down. The storyline pulls you in, but it drags a bit in some places. It ends with happy, but also sad, events.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. This is my honest and voluntary opinion of it.
Profile Image for Elizabeth Connor.
1,465 reviews41 followers
June 20, 2019
Emma Linfield is a good writer. She creates realistic characters, many with a sense of humor, and complicated engaging plots. Aaron thinks something that made me laugh: "Playing chess against himself was a bad idea as, somehow, he always seemed to lose…" However, more and more, I find myself distracted by typos, misused homophones, and verb tense disagreements. This book was particularly trying.

I get it. Many people have trouble with who and whom. And it's easy to mix up verb tenses when you're in the middle of a story. Homophones are unavoidable when using voice recognition software. BUT, a good editor should catch all of these errors!

"Not only" and "but also" must always be used together. The same rule applies to "neither" and "nor." All self-respecting editors should know this. Double negatives are a bit more tricky, but can drastically affect the meaning of a sentence, so it's imperative they be correct. Parts of speech are not interchangeable. Contrite is an adjective while contrition is a noun; you cannot replace one with the other. Repartee and riposte have similar meanings, but cannot be substituted for one another. Serpentinite and serpentine have vastly different meanings. Fetter and ferret are not even similar, as far as I can tell, while using girdle instead of griddle made me laugh. An editor should have caught when the word stunting was used instead of the word stunning. There were dangling participles and misplaced modifying phrases, both of which can be extremely confusing.

At one point, there is a conversation in which Eleanor responds to something that Aaron thought, but never spoke out loud. At another point, Aaron is in the bank, and the next time we see him, he is exiting his carriage, but he never left the bank because, according to the verbs used, no time had passed. There were many times when the things that characters did just didn't make sense to me. For example, there is a time when Eleanor takes a little girl from her mother so that she can comfort her. Late in the book, Eleanor is upset because she didn't know that Aaron had been shot. However, Lady Darcy had already told her about the shooting a few chapters earlier.

In terms of dangling threads, there was mention of an incident with Lady Darcy, but this was never explained further and that was a big problem for me. You don't introduce something so significant in a character's life and then fail to explain it fully. Is there an accompanying novel planned? Reading about Darcy and Julius could be interesting. I'm always intrigued by the POVs of different characters and how differently they view the same events.

In the end, although I enjoyed the story, I can only get this book 3 stars. I'm disappointed. I believe Emma Linfield has some great stories to tell, but if she wants readers to respect her as a professional author, she must use the services of a professional editor. When she does this, I believe she will be justified in raising the prices of her books from the 99 cents that she generally charges. (Full disclosure: I am an editor and I understand that I am more attuned to these types of errors that many readers would be. Still, I know that I am not alone.)
84 reviews
June 20, 2019
What a great story. I really loved this book! It's packed full of action, suspense, a little mystery and such a sweet, slowly developing romance between Lady Eleanor and the Duke of Oberton. I couldn't put it down, waiting to see what would happen next. The characters are well developed and engaging, and the book is well written. I enjoyed the book from cover to cover and it was a pleasure to read.
4,870 reviews8 followers
June 23, 2019
Romance

Thank you for sharing these wonderful romance novels series books . Please keep writing more of these wonderful books. Thank you
Profile Image for Phylis Collins.
2,850 reviews8 followers
June 21, 2019
I loved the main characters, they will entertain you until the last page. Heartwarming romance filled with mystery, intrigue, surprising twist and turns and of course, love. Well done. My free opinion. Thanks
Profile Image for alfawolf1  ~Sherri K.
175 reviews
June 12, 2019
Lady Eleanor is not like other ladies. She does not hide her brilliance and education to spare men's feelings or honor by playing stupid. She does not giggle at silly things and gossip with the ladies. She has earned the title of Lady Disdain. Aaron is the youngest Duke, after having lost his parents. The elder Dukes think he is too young and unsettled, he should find a wife soon. Aaron and Eleanor have met twice in the past, and have become bitter toward each other. But they decide to get to know each other better. As they begin their strained friendship, mysterious and dangerous situations arise. How did Eleanor's mother really die? Who is out to destroy Aaron's business? Will they find out in time, before it's too late?

Again, Emma Linfield creates a wonderful story where characters come to life in vivid settings. There is mystery, intrigue, danger, love! I enjoyed this book and await her next books!
Profile Image for Martha B..
835 reviews11 followers
June 9, 2019
To Trust Takes Time

It's difficult to hate an enemy that you've taken the time to know. That adage seems to fit Lady Eleanor, daughter of the Duke of Brisdane, and His Grace (Aaron), the Duke of Oberton. Their shared enmity was years in the making, and it seemed as if it would continue on indefinitely. Then Aaron took the time to really get to know Eleanor. What happens next is the story of Her Duke in Shining Armor.

This character driven story by Emma Linfield is well written and has much to offer. The multi-faceted characters are both charming and frightening. The interesting plot has a number of twists and turns. There is also has witty dialogue, sweet compassion, heart-pounding danger and numerous difficulties along the way to a HEA. It also has an epilogue and an extended epilogue.

I really liked most of this sweet and clean, stand-alone book. However, I did not like the religious expletives. For me, that literary choice lowered this book from 5 stars to 4 stars.

Disclosure: I received an ARC of this book from the author. I am voluntarily submitting my honest review.
Profile Image for Sharon Wagner.
473 reviews1 follower
June 18, 2019
Wonderful book!

Awesome storyline! Talk about intrigue and danger, but when it comes from family it makes more despicable. Thank God Elenior had Arron. They were a perfect couple. What a truly wonderful ending.
Profile Image for Kaye.
7,177 reviews70 followers
June 11, 2019
INCREDIBLY FANTASTIC!!!
Wow! You get it all with this little guy. A whirling, swirling eddy of electrifying events and unforseen surprises launch all your emotions bursting into play with every color on the spectrum. One incredible pulse racing, heart pounding, page flipping delight that brings this baby bursting to life flawlessly. Twixt and twined and put through the wringer as we witness all the trials and tribulations along with a few near misses. All the drama, angst and intrigue keep you riveted from start to finish. Emma really brings this baby together beautifully with a intriguing storyline and engaging plot. The characters are authentic, genuine and realistic with such depth and personalities that blend and flow. The scenes are so descriptive and detailed it's easy to picture each scenario as they play off one another perfectly. Remarkable job Emma, thanks for sharing this bad boy with us.
433 reviews24 followers
June 14, 2019
Lady Eleanor Stanley was nicknamed Lady Disdain he was rebellious, outspoken, and did not suffer fools kindly her father wanted her married and she had spent the entire season morning men off. Aaron Bravolt, the Duke of Oberton had insulted her when she was 15 and then again when she was 17 and she had never forgiven him. There is a mystery in her house on what exactly happened to her mother when she died. The death of her mother changed her father greatly. To find out about her mother and father, and Aaron you have to read the book. It's a good book...
Profile Image for Barbara.
19.2k reviews8 followers
June 16, 2019
A story that kept me turning pages a great storyline with a story that flows smoothly from page to page. What a Father Eleanor Stanley had! I was pleased that Aaron Bravolt, Duke of Oberton came into her life when he did. The story has suspense, drama, danger, shooting, poisoning,murder,and romance. A story I enjoyed reading.
168 reviews2 followers
June 12, 2019
Wow! A clean Regency Romance with a bit of mystery as a side. Lady Eleanor is sharp and quick-witted and does not play the game of the ton. She wants to marry for love and have intelligent conversations with her suitor. The Duke of Oberton needs to find a wife, but refuses to take a bet for Lady Eleanor's affection. A chance meeting at a ball, sparks fly, which has both of them rethinking their opinion of the other. Throw in someone wanting to ruin Oberton and Lady Eleanor quest to find out the truth of her mother's death and you have a story that you do not want to put down until it is finished.
Profile Image for Gina.
2,389 reviews31 followers
June 13, 2019
I like enemy to lovers stories. This was kind of funny because Aaron could not help it when he said rude things to Eleanor and she could really hold a grudge. When they finally bare their feelings there is trouble on the horizon because Eleanor's father is hiding a terrible secret and Aaron has an enemy out to hurt him and his friends. Lots of mystery and action in this story. I received a complimentary copy and I am voluntarily reviewing.
945 reviews9 followers
June 12, 2019
I enjoyed this story with its twists and turns, romance, danger, and so much more. Emma Linfield's depiction of the London "slum" and poverty was enlightening as well as the lifestyles of the "upper crust"--quite a variation in lifestyles! The suspense, danger, and bravery demonstrated by the main characters kept me reading. It was hard to put this book down. I highly recommend this book! I received a complimentary ARC of this book and have voluntarily given my honest opinion.
Profile Image for Sharon.
717 reviews7 followers
June 10, 2019
Lady Eleanor wants to marry for love. Her father, Duke of Brisdane, wants her married by the end of the season. Aaron, the Duke of Oberton is lonely. It's time for him to find a wife. Eleanor and Aaron have known each other for many years and don't like each other. What happens when they meet in London? This is a well constructed plot with twists and turns. Very well written with danger and many difficulties to overcome. Some characters are just plain evil. And what happened to Eleanor's mother? You will enjoy this ride. A must read!!
I voluntarily received a copy of this book and I'm voluntarily posting a review. My opinion is entirely my own.
Profile Image for Emma.
2,864 reviews39 followers
June 11, 2019
WOW... WOW... WOW... An amazing story. The plot and subplots were superbly filled with little turns here and little turns there leading you through the twisted story of Lady Eleanor and Lord Aaron. This was a stomach clenching page turner that filled me with the realistic emotions the characters portrayed. The characters were wonderfully written. The story came to life more and more as I read. I had to read the book straight through. There was no question in my mind that I had to finish it. This is a must read. You will not be disappointed. I highly recommend this book.
390 reviews2 followers
June 10, 2019
Another hit by Emma Linfield. Aaron and Eleanor believe that they hate each other but actually they don't understand the other. Aaron decides that he wants to discover who she really is underneath her facade. This book has romance suspense and betrayal. I would recommend it to anyone interested in a good read. I received this ARC free in exchange for a voluntary and honest review which I have freely written here
2,073 reviews13 followers
June 10, 2019
Enjoyable Regency tale with twists and turns. Aaron & Eleanor are wonderful characters whose numerous difficult conversations make you smile. This storyline is filled with mystery, secrets, envy, hatred, danger and romance. A lovely way to while away an afternoon.
Profile Image for Space Cowgirl.
4,133 reviews144 followers
June 11, 2019
To Be Rescued From Herself💃💔

Regency Romance💕, Murder Mystery🔫, and Thriller🔪🔫
Eleanor's father, the Duke of Brisdane👺, is impatiently forcing her into marriage. Highly self educated, Eleanor💃 finds men of the ton boring, inane, and some even revolting cads! Now she fears she has burned🔥 all her bridges🌉 and will never find the ONE💕.

At the last ball of the season, she is reacquainted with Duke Oberton, Aaron Barvolt🐺. They were childhood acquaintances, even though he thought her a freckle faced tomboy. Not so much now!
Aaron🐺 needs a wife and Eleanor💃 is being forced into marriage👰, but they argue at their brief meeting because she thinks all men are cold, distant, and controlling like her father.

Yet the two think constantly about each other. Eleanor💃 also often remembers her beloved mother and her sudden mysterious death.

Eleanor dreams that Aaron🐺 rescues her from her life of self imposed loneliness💔. Aaron🐺 does want to be her Knight In Shining Armor🔪 and rescue her, but it's hard to capture a fair damsel's heart💕 when she is constantly running away!

ARC Received from Bookfunnel🌀
I also got the book with KU.

I adored this well written long Regency Romance with a mystery included! There were two small continuity problems with minor characters in the book but the book was so interesting and the mystery so exciting, that I just couldn't put it down!
620 reviews
June 29, 2019
TITLE: Who will come to Eleanor’s rescue? Duke Aaron of course—albeit without his white horse!

SETTING: LONDON 1818
Lady Eleanor Stanley, only daughter of the widowed Duke of Brisdane, is facing pressure from her father to marry. Eleanor is a ‘bluestocking’, and finds the men at the balls and soirées boring—with the exception of the Duke of Oberton, whom she finds irritating. Having been shut off from society by her father until being placed ‘out’ in society, she has no friends, and finds it difficult to allow anyone to draw close to her.
Enter Aaron Barvolt, the Duke of Oberton, who inherited not only his father’s dukedom but also his uncle’s share of a shipping business. The other partners are pressuring Aaron to marry, to give him the appearance of stability his shareholders want, to insure their continued backing. Off to London, and it’s societal affairs he goes—half-heartedly looking for the woman who is more than glitz and gossip that he has so far found to be the case, with the thought of Lady Eleanor niggling the back of his mind. However, his teasing of her when they were young puts a stumbling MOUNTAIN in the way of their developing a relationship now that they are of age. How will that mountain be overcome?? Will it?? Or are these 2 young people going to have to “settle” for someone less than what their heart’s desire?
On their path develops a major obstacle—Eleanor’s father, who detests Aaron, and is found to be hiding an ugly secret from Eleanor. A series of mysteries, near murders and actual murders then occurs that keep the reader turning the pages!

CRITIQUE: FASCINATING storyline! Great characters, easily identified with and liked, make reading this gem a true pleasure. You admire Eleanor’s courage to help the weak and unprotected, and Aaron’s unswerving devotion to her—unbeknownst to her initially. Surprises along the way that break your heart as they do Eleanor’s. A HEA is obtained for our H & h and for his friends who aid Aaron and Eleanor all along the way. A clean Regency Romance/Mystery that readers of all ages will enjoy.
Profile Image for Candy Briggs.
731 reviews14 followers
June 27, 2019
A wonderful tale of Lady Eleanor Stanley, the daughter of the Duke of Brisdane. She is cold and speaks to no one unless she must. People of the Ton feel she is the Lady of Disdain and try to stay away from her.
Aaron Bavolt, the Duke of Oberton, finds her intriguing. But she pushes him away but he won't be pushed. He tries to get her to see he would be good for her. He does not care for the Ton and makes his own decisions.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story. it is well written, romantic, and the characters are marvelous. I loved the way she was with young Maria, worrying about her safety and trying to take care of her. There are definitely some twists to this book. The author handles it with finesse and manages to keep your interest. It is exciting.
I received this ARC from the author and voluntarily reviewed it.
5 reviews
July 19, 2019
Loved, Loved, Loved This book!

I fell in love with the characters in this story! Just the right amount of intrigue and romance to make me not want the story to end! Read most of it in one sitting, but had to quit (it was 1am!) so I could get up for work in the morning!

Please read this book!
80 reviews
August 16, 2019
Good read.

This was a good read but it could have been so much better. The SPELLING mistakes and INCONSISTENCIES!!!! There were too many to overlook and it became quite distracting! The story line itself was great and I grew to love the characters. I would love to read further their story. We will see though.
Profile Image for Marybelle A. Swaim.
213 reviews1 follower
July 8, 2019
Excellent

Emma Linfield never disappoints. Excellent story line along with a great plot and wonderful characters to cheer on. Plenty of gripping suspense to keep you mesmerized. A wonderful book. Don't miss it!
2,372 reviews6 followers
February 28, 2020
Nice read

This book had it all a coup mysteries along with in and plenty of action. After quite a bit of twists and turns the villains are disco and consequences paid. A sweet romance followed by an epilogue a few years into their future finishes everything up
Profile Image for Angelica Braden .
3 reviews1 follower
April 26, 2020
A must read!

I started this book, not sure if I would enjoy it as the Regency/Victorian era was not kind on women and how we were viewed/treated.... that being said, I did end up finding myself drawn to the independence of Eleanor and the sheer willpower she shows.
57 reviews
July 13, 2020
A classic!

This was a very enjoyable story to read. There was enough suspense in the plot to hold your attention. The characters were well developed and as always, the story is suitable for all ages.
Profile Image for Donna.
1,375 reviews25 followers
July 21, 2019
Hmmm

Not sure how I feel about this one? The editing was terrible and normally I don’t let it bug me but... it did.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews

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