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The Keys to a Lockridge Heart #1
Melting a Duke's Winter Heart
No secret stays hidden forever. Neither does true love…
On the outside, Sarah and Lucille Lockridge look like two drops of water. On the inside, they couldn’t be more different. When their father, the devious Earl of Huxley, decides to marry timid and shy Lucille to a rude and cold duke, Sarah will not stand for it: she will conceive a clever plan and secretly take her sister’s place to protect her.
Augustus Sutton, the Duke of Whitehall, still mourns the love he lost in a tragic way. When his formidable enemy, Lord Huxley, blackmails him with a secret Augustus thought forgotten, he has no choice but to agree to marry the Earl’s daughter, Lucille.
As this courtship proceeds, Sarah discovers there’s a warm and wounded heart under the cold exterior of the Duke of Whitehall… and Augustus realizes that “Lucille” is the opposite of what he had heard about her.
Now, in a dangerous game where everyone is both puppet and puppeteer, Augustus and Sarah must find a way to the truth in their hearts, and discover how to thwart Lord Huxley’s cunning schemes before all of their lives are destroyed forever…
On the outside, Sarah and Lucille Lockridge look like two drops of water. On the inside, they couldn’t be more different. When their father, the devious Earl of Huxley, decides to marry timid and shy Lucille to a rude and cold duke, Sarah will not stand for it: she will conceive a clever plan and secretly take her sister’s place to protect her.
Augustus Sutton, the Duke of Whitehall, still mourns the love he lost in a tragic way. When his formidable enemy, Lord Huxley, blackmails him with a secret Augustus thought forgotten, he has no choice but to agree to marry the Earl’s daughter, Lucille.
As this courtship proceeds, Sarah discovers there’s a warm and wounded heart under the cold exterior of the Duke of Whitehall… and Augustus realizes that “Lucille” is the opposite of what he had heard about her.
Now, in a dangerous game where everyone is both puppet and puppeteer, Augustus and Sarah must find a way to the truth in their hearts, and discover how to thwart Lord Huxley’s cunning schemes before all of their lives are destroyed forever…
460 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2019
535 people are currently reading
104 people want to read
About the author
Abby Ayles
141 books704 followersAbby 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.
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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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
January 3, 2020
Winter Love
Sarah Lockridge and her twin sister Lucille hatch a plan to protect each other from a bad marriage. No one knows that they are twins. Lord Whitehall wants to protect the poor from Lord Huxley's plans to line his pockets. Can the Lockridge twins thwart their father's plans? Find out in Melting a Duke's Winter Heart.
Sarah Lockridge and her twin sister Lucille hatch a plan to protect each other from a bad marriage. No one knows that they are twins. Lord Whitehall wants to protect the poor from Lord Huxley's plans to line his pockets. Can the Lockridge twins thwart their father's plans? Find out in Melting a Duke's Winter Heart.
November 3, 2019
I enjoyed up till 50% then it became really dragging and I wanted hero to grovel for what he did instead of being easily forgiven by the heroine.
Heroine faced all the trials and tribulations and hero hardly did anything.
Heroine faced all the trials and tribulations and hero hardly did anything.
October 24, 2019
No secret stays hidden forever. Neither does true love…
On the outside, Sarah and Lucille Lockridge look like two drops of water. On the inside, they couldn’t be more different. When their father, the devious Earl of Huxley, decides to marry timid and shy Lucille to a rude and cold duke, Sarah will not stand for it: she will conceive a clever plan and secretly take her sister’s place to protect her.
Augustus Sutton, the Duke of Whitehall, still mourns the love he lost in a tragic way. When his formidable enemy, Lord Huxley, blackmails him with a secret Augustus thought forgotten, he has no choice but to agree to marry the Earl’s daughter, Lucille.
As this courtship proceeds, Sarah discovers there’s a warm and wounded heart under the cold exterior of the Duke of Whitehall… and Augustus realizes that “Lucille” is the opposite of what he had heard about her.
Now, in a dangerous game where everyone is both puppet and puppeteer, Augustus and Sarah must find a way to the truth in their hearts, and discover how to thwart Lord Huxley’s cunning schemes before all of their lives are destroyed forever…
What a wonderful story this was.
Filled with so many twists and turns that was so engaging.
Well written plot and story line that was so enjoyable to read.
Characters were well fleshed out and enjoyable to read about.
Wonderful romantic story that I recommend reading.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
On the outside, Sarah and Lucille Lockridge look like two drops of water. On the inside, they couldn’t be more different. When their father, the devious Earl of Huxley, decides to marry timid and shy Lucille to a rude and cold duke, Sarah will not stand for it: she will conceive a clever plan and secretly take her sister’s place to protect her.
Augustus Sutton, the Duke of Whitehall, still mourns the love he lost in a tragic way. When his formidable enemy, Lord Huxley, blackmails him with a secret Augustus thought forgotten, he has no choice but to agree to marry the Earl’s daughter, Lucille.
As this courtship proceeds, Sarah discovers there’s a warm and wounded heart under the cold exterior of the Duke of Whitehall… and Augustus realizes that “Lucille” is the opposite of what he had heard about her.
Now, in a dangerous game where everyone is both puppet and puppeteer, Augustus and Sarah must find a way to the truth in their hearts, and discover how to thwart Lord Huxley’s cunning schemes before all of their lives are destroyed forever…
What a wonderful story this was.
Filled with so many twists and turns that was so engaging.
Well written plot and story line that was so enjoyable to read.
Characters were well fleshed out and enjoyable to read about.
Wonderful romantic story that I recommend reading.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
July 26, 2022
I could not believe a Duke would not know that an Earl he is familiar with has twins, both of whom are 'out' in society. It's preposterous quite frankly. The ridiculousness of the story continues with Sarah pretending to be Lucille to save Lucille from having to marry a man she does not love, so she may keep seeing her low born love. To do this she needs to seek the help of a man who refuses to help unless Lucille marries him, thereby marrying a man she does not love, and breaking up with her low born love. It's all so totally ridiculous that I read it with both eyebrows raised. Lots of coincidences and actions that make little to no sense bring about the inevitable HEA.
Having said all that, I rather like Sarah and Whitehall, and if you can ignore all the stupid stuff, you can be quite happy that they find each other.
Some of the reviews here mention that an Earl is lower than a Duke. Well yes and no. For example, Prince Edward is the Earl of Wessex, and while he is lower in the line of succession the Dukes of Cornwall (Charles), Cambridge (William), Sussex (Harry) and York (Andrew) he is high than the Dukes of Kent and Gloucester, as well as other non-royal dukes. So it's really not that cut and dried.
I wouldn't recommend this book, but if you've already started it, it's not a disaster.
I got it free from Kindle Unlimited which helped it must be said. I didn't pay for it.
Having said all that, I rather like Sarah and Whitehall, and if you can ignore all the stupid stuff, you can be quite happy that they find each other.
Some of the reviews here mention that an Earl is lower than a Duke. Well yes and no. For example, Prince Edward is the Earl of Wessex, and while he is lower in the line of succession the Dukes of Cornwall (Charles), Cambridge (William), Sussex (Harry) and York (Andrew) he is high than the Dukes of Kent and Gloucester, as well as other non-royal dukes. So it's really not that cut and dried.
I wouldn't recommend this book, but if you've already started it, it's not a disaster.
I got it free from Kindle Unlimited which helped it must be said. I didn't pay for it.
October 20, 2019
This was a very enjoyable read. Twins; they look alike but couldn't be more different.
Their father was very cold, cruel and demanding. Very outspoken in the House of Lords, he was deceitful and was used to getting what he wanted by any means he felt necessary. In order to secure a vote for a bill which would benefit him financially, he sought to blackmail his adversary by forcing him to marry Lucille who he thought would help bend him. He sought to tie him to a "dull" weak woman with nothing in common. Lucille's twin, Sarah, knew she would not be able to withstand it, so she took Sarah's place, being the stronger one. Would anyone notice?
Lord Whitehall was livid and didn't want anything to with this but felt he didn't have a choice. Lord Huxley could ruin him. Sarah had trouble holding her tongue and Lord Whitehall began to see a different woman when they were together than when no one was watching. They grew fond of each other.
Will the ruse work? Can they find happiness? What other secrets are being kept? Will Lord Huxley's wife ever take a stand? I thought it ended rather abruptly but there is an extended epilogue to pull it together. I could read more; Lucille's circumstances need resolution. Maybe a storyline on Lucille and her husband?
I received an ARC from the author and this is my voluntary review.
Their father was very cold, cruel and demanding. Very outspoken in the House of Lords, he was deceitful and was used to getting what he wanted by any means he felt necessary. In order to secure a vote for a bill which would benefit him financially, he sought to blackmail his adversary by forcing him to marry Lucille who he thought would help bend him. He sought to tie him to a "dull" weak woman with nothing in common. Lucille's twin, Sarah, knew she would not be able to withstand it, so she took Sarah's place, being the stronger one. Would anyone notice?
Lord Whitehall was livid and didn't want anything to with this but felt he didn't have a choice. Lord Huxley could ruin him. Sarah had trouble holding her tongue and Lord Whitehall began to see a different woman when they were together than when no one was watching. They grew fond of each other.
Will the ruse work? Can they find happiness? What other secrets are being kept? Will Lord Huxley's wife ever take a stand? I thought it ended rather abruptly but there is an extended epilogue to pull it together. I could read more; Lucille's circumstances need resolution. Maybe a storyline on Lucille and her husband?
I received an ARC from the author and this is my voluntary review.
October 30, 2019
Deceit and blackmail!
Sarah Lockridge cannot bear the thought of her twin, Lucille, being forced into marriage in one of their father’s political schemes. Lucille is timid and gentle, unlike Sarah whose stubborn outspokenness has frightened off all suitors to-date. Worse yet, the groom-to-be is the Duke of Whitehall, a bear of a man with a frightening disposition. Sarah will have to call on all of her inner strength and courage to go through with her plan to save her sister.
Augustus, the Duke of Whitehall, has sworn off marriage. He has never stopped mourning the death of his only love, but the Earl of Huxley is forcing his hand. He may have to marry Huxley's daughter but Augustus would not allow the marriage to be used as leverage over him in the House of Lords. Lucille should be easy enough to ignore as a wife, but when she came to tea with her brother she seemed much more spirited then he remembered.
I liked that Sarah was intelligent and willing to stand up to her abusive father regardless of the consequences. The author brought the plight of the poor at that time into the story in a way that fits in with the story. There was also a hint that there might be a story in the future for Lucille. The plot had drama and romance and was true to the period. Anyone who likes historical romances will enjoy this book.
Sarah Lockridge cannot bear the thought of her twin, Lucille, being forced into marriage in one of their father’s political schemes. Lucille is timid and gentle, unlike Sarah whose stubborn outspokenness has frightened off all suitors to-date. Worse yet, the groom-to-be is the Duke of Whitehall, a bear of a man with a frightening disposition. Sarah will have to call on all of her inner strength and courage to go through with her plan to save her sister.
Augustus, the Duke of Whitehall, has sworn off marriage. He has never stopped mourning the death of his only love, but the Earl of Huxley is forcing his hand. He may have to marry Huxley's daughter but Augustus would not allow the marriage to be used as leverage over him in the House of Lords. Lucille should be easy enough to ignore as a wife, but when she came to tea with her brother she seemed much more spirited then he remembered.
I liked that Sarah was intelligent and willing to stand up to her abusive father regardless of the consequences. The author brought the plight of the poor at that time into the story in a way that fits in with the story. There was also a hint that there might be a story in the future for Lucille. The plot had drama and romance and was true to the period. Anyone who likes historical romances will enjoy this book.
November 10, 2019
Sarah and Lucille Lockridge are identical twins. Sarah is the more outgoing one while her sister Lucille more quiet, not one to draw attention to herself. Their father, Edgar Lockridge, the Earl of Huxley, is a horrible man that doesn't care for either of his daughters or his wife Marianne. He only cares about his mini me son.
The Earl has a moneymaking scheme that he's trying to get approved at the House of Lords. In order to do that, On the outside, Sarah and Lucille Lockridge look like two drops of water. On the inside, they couldn’t be more different. When their father, the devious Earl of Huxley, decides to marry timid and shy Lucille to a rude and cold duke, Sarah will not stand for it: she will conceive a clever plan and secretly take her sister’s place to protect her.
However, when Sarah and the Duke meet, it's not exactly a friendly meeting. But as time goes by, "Lucille" and the Duke get to know each other. I love the different twists in the storyline. And I am sure you will, too.
I received an ARC of this ebook from the author. In addition, I bought a copy of the book from Amazon. I am leaving this totally honest review on my own.
The Earl has a moneymaking scheme that he's trying to get approved at the House of Lords. In order to do that, On the outside, Sarah and Lucille Lockridge look like two drops of water. On the inside, they couldn’t be more different. When their father, the devious Earl of Huxley, decides to marry timid and shy Lucille to a rude and cold duke, Sarah will not stand for it: she will conceive a clever plan and secretly take her sister’s place to protect her.
However, when Sarah and the Duke meet, it's not exactly a friendly meeting. But as time goes by, "Lucille" and the Duke get to know each other. I love the different twists in the storyline. And I am sure you will, too.
I received an ARC of this ebook from the author. In addition, I bought a copy of the book from Amazon. I am leaving this totally honest review on my own.
October 19, 2019
ONE TITILLATING ADVENTURE!!!
Breathless wonder! Abby nails this compelling, tantalizing, sensational, block busting delight with 100% on point realism, that hooks you from the start and reels you in for the duration. An arresting storyline and riveting plot reveal an abundance of twists and turns that keeps your heart pounding. Pushing on-ward, coping with the trials and tribulations struggling with the drama, secrets and revelations propels this gem to life smoothly. A swirling throng of vexing contingents and a bounty of surprising events catapults those swirling emotions bursting into play. Throw in all intrigue, mystery and exciting suspense and you have one intense, page flipping dynamo. The characters personalities are authentic and realistic with depth and qualities that are well balanced and blended. The scenes and dynamics are written with such realism it's no problem interpreting each scenario as they play off one another smoothly. Amazing job Abby, thanks for sharing this little guy with us.
Breathless wonder! Abby nails this compelling, tantalizing, sensational, block busting delight with 100% on point realism, that hooks you from the start and reels you in for the duration. An arresting storyline and riveting plot reveal an abundance of twists and turns that keeps your heart pounding. Pushing on-ward, coping with the trials and tribulations struggling with the drama, secrets and revelations propels this gem to life smoothly. A swirling throng of vexing contingents and a bounty of surprising events catapults those swirling emotions bursting into play. Throw in all intrigue, mystery and exciting suspense and you have one intense, page flipping dynamo. The characters personalities are authentic and realistic with depth and qualities that are well balanced and blended. The scenes and dynamics are written with such realism it's no problem interpreting each scenario as they play off one another smoothly. Amazing job Abby, thanks for sharing this little guy with us.
October 24, 2019
I really enjoyed this one! As an Abby Ayles fan, I got an advanced copy of this one! Sarah and Lucille are twins with polar opposite personalities. When the softer sister, Lucille, is promised to her father's political opponent in order to manipulate and blackmail him into submission, Sarah steps in. Taking her sister's place, Sarah begins unraveling the whys and hows of her father's plan. As Augustus tries to protect his broken heart and keep Sarah's father from passing a horrible bill in the House of Lords, he realizes that he is falling for his enemy's daughter...even though she is nothing like her reputation led him to think. With the help of some unusual allies, including a information collecting lord with his heart set on the real Lucille, they fight for a chance to be free of Edgar's evil manipulations. When you read this make sure you also read the extended epilogue because its a cute one!! Enjoy this sweet Regency!
October 25, 2019
Sarah and Lucille Lockridge are identical twins. Their father, Lord Huxley, is a cruel tyrant who only wants money and power. He cares for no one. He blackmails Augustus Sutton, the Duke of Whitehall, into marrying his timid and obedient daughter Lucille. Sarah hears rumors of Augustus and fears that Lucille is too gentle and will wither away in a marriage to him, much like their mother has done in all the years with their father. So they switch places and Sarah begins courting the unknowing Duke as Lucille. When Sarah learns of the blackmail and finds a good but hurting person in Augustus, they make plans to ruin Huxley's deeds. Will they be able to stop Huxley? Will Sarah succeed in the switch to save her sister? This story is full of intrigue, secrets, greed, loss and love. The characters are wonderful, you feel like you are living the story. This has a happily ever after, but I still can't wait for the next two books!
November 6, 2019
What a story! Identical twin sisters, Lucille and Sarah are totally different on the inside. Lucille is very timid and shy and Sarah is very strong and outgoing. When their father, Earl of Huxley, blackmails Augustus Sutton, Duke of Whitehall, to make him marry Lucille. Everyone believes that the Duke is a rude and cruel man and Sarah decides to take the place of Lucille believing that her twin would suffer the same fate as their mother had with their cruel, demanding father. This story is full of emotions galore; mystery, intrigue, tension, greed, loss, sacrifice and love! This appears to be the first book in a trilogy and the epilogue has a promise with a HEA. This author has done a wonderful job with the character development and the story just pulls you right into the scenes she creates.
I received an ARC copy of the book. This is my voluntary, honest and completely personal review.
VICKI FROM WYOMING
I received an ARC copy of the book. This is my voluntary, honest and completely personal review.
VICKI FROM WYOMING
November 17, 2019
Sarah and Lucille Lockridge are identical twins. Their father, Lord Huxley, is a cruel and evil man who is use to getting what he wants or uses blackmail to make sure of it. He Even blackmailed his father in law to get his wife! He blackmails Augustus Sutton, the Duke of Whitehall, into marrying his timid and obedient daughter Lucille. Sarah hears rumors of Augustus and fears that Lucille is too gentle and will suffer the same fate as her mother if she marries him. So Sarah decides to switch places with her sister. When Sarah learns of the blackmail she is furious! She soon realizes that Augustus, Is a man who is in terrible pain but is kind and gentle! Sarah has had enough of her fathers machinations and wants to see him ruined! This story is full of drama, secrets, greed, loss and love. The characters are wonderful, and the plot is original! i loved this book and this series. I look forward to reading the next book in this series!
October 21, 2019
A set of twins have a father with a cold heart. He is cruel and demanding, Their mother spends all her time alone in her room and is no help to her children. Lucille is shy and timid. Sarah is just the opposite. Their father blackmails Augustus Sutton, the Duke of Whitehall into marrying Lucille. It is said that the Duke is rude and cruel. Sarah knows Lucille could not handle such a situation and trades places with her. Sarah discovers that the Duke is a warm person but has a wounded heart. They fall in love. Sarah decides their father isn't going to get away with his plan. What will she do? There is mystery, drama, suspense, secrets, intrigue, revelations. Scenes are so well described that you can see the story unfold. Highly recommend.
I voluntarily received a copy of this book from the author and I'm voluntarily posting a review. My opinion is entirely my own.
I voluntarily received a copy of this book from the author and I'm voluntarily posting a review. My opinion is entirely my own.
February 17, 2020
What A heart felt novel by Abby Ayles! Melting a Duke's Winter Heart is one of those love stories that you have a difficult time putting down! It's a rollercoaster ride full of twist and turns with a tangled web of twin sisters switching place! Sarah is feisty and is going to save her sister from an unwanted marriage, Augustus is a bear of a man being blackmailed into marriage. All the characters are so well developed you feel every emotion that they are feeling throughout the story and they become very endearing as the story progresses. Every good romance must have a villain, and The Earl, Edgar Lockridge is that villain. You just love to hate him. But it is a sweet romance with intense emotions from despair and grief to love and sweet ecstasy. Abby has outdone herself with this novel! Can't wait to find out about Lucille and Riginald!
October 21, 2019
An enchanting story involving identical twin sisters, Sarah and Lucille, and The Duke of Whitehall with the winter heart, Augustus Sutton. The Duke of Whitehall had suffered a broken heart many years ago and vowed never to love again. However, he was being blackmailed by a fellow House of Lords member who happened to be the twin sisters’ father. He set up the Duke to marry his daughter, Lucille, as she was the quiet demure type. Sarah being the most outgoing could not stand to see her sister being used in this way so she pretended to be Lucille. Many mixups, twists and turns later all things work out but not without a lot of mystery, intrigue, tense moments that keep you turning the pages and keeping you up all night until the end.
October 22, 2019
Very Enjoyable Story
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, by Abby Ayles. if the following two books are as good the series will be memorable indeed and one to keep.
The main characters in the book were endearing, the twins Sarah and Lucille, although brought up to be undemonstrative, had a bond and love so strong it was heart warming. The two Dukes Augustus and Reginald were also strong characters, Agustus was particularly charming when he wasn't in one of his 'dismals' and I'm sure that once Reginald has sorted his problems he will be equally charming.
The exciting part will be the taking on of Lord Huxley and when he receives his comeuppance, that will be the icing on the cake, which I look forward to.
I would thoroughly recommend this book.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, by Abby Ayles. if the following two books are as good the series will be memorable indeed and one to keep.
The main characters in the book were endearing, the twins Sarah and Lucille, although brought up to be undemonstrative, had a bond and love so strong it was heart warming. The two Dukes Augustus and Reginald were also strong characters, Agustus was particularly charming when he wasn't in one of his 'dismals' and I'm sure that once Reginald has sorted his problems he will be equally charming.
The exciting part will be the taking on of Lord Huxley and when he receives his comeuppance, that will be the icing on the cake, which I look forward to.
I would thoroughly recommend this book.
October 24, 2019
The Earl of Huxley is a detestable man in the eyes of many, including his two identical twin daughters, Sarah and Lucille Lockridge.
Lucille is meek and quiet, where her sister Sarah is outspoken and brave.
Their father decides on a marriage arrangement between Lucille and Lord Whitehall,Augustus Sutton, his arch rival.
Sarah believes there is more behind this arrangement, and has all intentions on finding out why. She knows her own father is at the root of this evil plot.
A well written compelling story by Abby. The romance and intense twists of betrayal and blackmail among the nobility will keep the reader turning the pages.
Lucille is meek and quiet, where her sister Sarah is outspoken and brave.
Their father decides on a marriage arrangement between Lucille and Lord Whitehall,Augustus Sutton, his arch rival.
Sarah believes there is more behind this arrangement, and has all intentions on finding out why. She knows her own father is at the root of this evil plot.
A well written compelling story by Abby. The romance and intense twists of betrayal and blackmail among the nobility will keep the reader turning the pages.
November 23, 2019
Identical twins who are as different as night and day. Lucille is shy and Sarah is fearless. Their father is a terrible human being with no regard for them and blackmails a Duke into marrying Lucille to have influence over him. Sarah switches places to save for shy sister who is in love with another. The Duke has lost the love of his life previously but finds himself falling for "Lucille" who is also falling in love with him. The story has intrigue, twists and turns, suspense and will hold your interest till the end. I was disappointed that Lucille's story was not addressed in the extended epilogue and hope there is another book to tell her story too!
April 10, 2020
Enough
The plot of this book has an Earl who is blackmailing a Duke to marry one of his daughters. Sarah is the extrovert and Lucille is the shy one. The Earl is blackmailing the Duke to marry Lucille but Sarah takes her place. The Duke is hung up on his former fiancé and is reluctant to marry. I have read numerous Regency era novels and nowhere I can find where an Earl can intimidate a Duke, it is just not believable. So, at 31% of book I decided to stop and move on to another since I completely lost interest. The blackmailing scheme will have to continue to be a secret since it's irrelevant. I can not recommend this book.
The plot of this book has an Earl who is blackmailing a Duke to marry one of his daughters. Sarah is the extrovert and Lucille is the shy one. The Earl is blackmailing the Duke to marry Lucille but Sarah takes her place. The Duke is hung up on his former fiancé and is reluctant to marry. I have read numerous Regency era novels and nowhere I can find where an Earl can intimidate a Duke, it is just not believable. So, at 31% of book I decided to stop and move on to another since I completely lost interest. The blackmailing scheme will have to continue to be a secret since it's irrelevant. I can not recommend this book.
October 20, 2019
Melting a Duke's Winter Heart A Clean&Sweet Romance
This is Abby Sykes newest book and it is a great story.Sarah and Lucille Lockridge look like and hard to tell apart.Sarah poses as Lucille with the man that her father states that Lucille has to marry the Duke of Whitehall.
Augustus Sutton is being blackmailed by their father and when Sarah falls in love with Augustus she is determined to not have her father win.This story is the best yet and the extended epilogue is very good also
This is Abby Sykes newest book and it is a great story.Sarah and Lucille Lockridge look like and hard to tell apart.Sarah poses as Lucille with the man that her father states that Lucille has to marry the Duke of Whitehall.
Augustus Sutton is being blackmailed by their father and when Sarah falls in love with Augustus she is determined to not have her father win.This story is the best yet and the extended epilogue is very good also
October 24, 2019
This was my first Abby Ayles's book, and won't be my last! Melting a Duke's Winter Heart, a clean and sweet Regency Historical Romance Novel, is beautifully written. I love all about it: the characters, the storyline, the intrigue, and the ending. Sarah is a lovely character, strong, modern, and caring. Augustus is handsome, caring, and protective. His past is heartbreaking. I love their chemistry. The sisterhood between the twin, Lucille and Sarah, is wonderful. I would love to have Lucille's story. I enjoyed reading this story, and I highly recommend it.
October 26, 2019
Earl of Huxley has twin girls. One is shy and timid and the other is outspoken and bold. He blackmails the Duke of Whitehall with information he isn't supposed to have to marry the timid and shy one Lucille. But Sara finds out and decides she is not going to let that happen. She takes her place. The Duke is not what he seems. Sara sees that and starts to feel differently. It is a really exciting and engaging read. Lots of emotions. I recommend it. I received a review copy and voluntarily review it.
February 8, 2020
Series: Lockridge Sisters
Book 2: A Loving Duke for the Shy Duchess
Thought this one couldn't be better than the second part of this series but damnnn it nearly was.
Adored the heroine. Very feisty and sassy, brave and strong but also compassionate and empathetic.
Liked the plot. Duke is blackmailed into accepting his arch enemy's daughter's hand in marriage but then he develops feelings for her, feelings he can't have as he has already met and lost the one love of his life years before.
This book made me cry. On several occasions. Loved it from start to finish.
Book 2: A Loving Duke for the Shy Duchess
Thought this one couldn't be better than the second part of this series but damnnn it nearly was.
Adored the heroine. Very feisty and sassy, brave and strong but also compassionate and empathetic.
Liked the plot. Duke is blackmailed into accepting his arch enemy's daughter's hand in marriage but then he develops feelings for her, feelings he can't have as he has already met and lost the one love of his life years before.
This book made me cry. On several occasions. Loved it from start to finish.
October 23, 2019
A lost love 💘, blackmail, and accepting a new love
Augustus is blackmailed into marriage to Lady Lucille by her father another in the House of Lords and wishing to further his own agenda. When her identical twin Sarah comes up with the plan to switch identities Lucille goes along with as she loves another.
Augustus had lost the only one that he felt himself capable of loving and had no desire to ever marry anyone else.
Augustus is blackmailed into marriage to Lady Lucille by her father another in the House of Lords and wishing to further his own agenda. When her identical twin Sarah comes up with the plan to switch identities Lucille goes along with as she loves another.
Augustus had lost the only one that he felt himself capable of loving and had no desire to ever marry anyone else.
September 14, 2020
Abby Ayles always amazes me with the different ways she finds to create a story about what was a very structured society. I love stories about twins since we have several sets in our family. The differences in personalities even though identical made this story. As the more outspoken twin, Sarah, was the most disliked by her father and therefore not a good candidate as a wife for the Duke, Lord Whitehall. This story has many twists and turns and has an unexpected ending.
November 7, 2019
Write another book to this one
Please write another book a out Lucille her husband and his secret. All your fans want to know more about Sarah and Whitehall. Is their baby a big a girl or twins, are the twins boy and girl. Does Lucy have a baby or two and will she be happy
. Will Marianne and her son Edgar be reunited. Can there be an account ability for the Earl.
Please write another book a out Lucille her husband and his secret. All your fans want to know more about Sarah and Whitehall. Is their baby a big a girl or twins, are the twins boy and girl. Does Lucy have a baby or two and will she be happy
. Will Marianne and her son Edgar be reunited. Can there be an account ability for the Earl.
November 9, 2019
Two twin sisters one strong and the other shy and timid this is Sarah and Lucille Lockridge's story it kept me turning pages. Their Father is not a very nice man. Augustus Sutton, the Duke of Whitehall come into their lifes and everything will be tense. I enjoyed reading this story, and hope there will be more on these sisters and their Mother. A very good story that is well worth reading.
November 13, 2019
Amazing read!!
Abby Ayles knows how to pull in the reader and keep them enthralled with each word! Augustus and Sarah's story is one you will not want to miss. I had a horrible time putting it down to accomplish anything else! Lol. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
Abby Ayles knows how to pull in the reader and keep them enthralled with each word! Augustus and Sarah's story is one you will not want to miss. I had a horrible time putting it down to accomplish anything else! Lol. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
January 7, 2021
Kindle Copy for Review
Secrets do not remain secrets for long as love finds its way into a duke’s heart when he least expected it. A noble will mend his broken heart as they will take their chance on love despite possible scandal from the ton.
It is an enchanting storyline where love will ultimately win in the end. An enjoyable regency read.
Secrets do not remain secrets for long as love finds its way into a duke’s heart when he least expected it. A noble will mend his broken heart as they will take their chance on love despite possible scandal from the ton.
It is an enchanting storyline where love will ultimately win in the end. An enjoyable regency read.
May 20, 2021
Found Sarah and Lucille to be wonderful characters. Very well written when the author makes you dislike characters and wish for them to fail, i.e. Lord Huxley. My only complaint is what happens to Lucille and Reginald? I read the extended epilogue but this was not addressed. Do they have their own ending?
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