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The Heart of a Duke #16
To Hold a Lady's Secret
Return to the breathtaking world of the HEART OF A DUKE...the USA Today bestselling series that is sure to leave you breathless and longing for more!
Lady Gillian Farendale is in trouble. Her titled father has dragged her through one London Season after another, until the sheer monotony of the marriage mart and the last vestige of Gillian's once-independent spirit conspire to lead her into a single night of folly. When her adventure goes so very wrong, she has only one old friend to whom she can turn for help.
Colin Lockhart's youthful friendship with Lady Gillian cost him everything, and a duke's by-blow had little enough to start with. He's survived years on London's roughest streets to become a highly successful Bow Street Runner, and his dream of his own inquiry agency is almost within his grasp.
Then Gillian begs him to once again risk angering her powerful father. The ruthless logic of the street tells Colin that he dare not help Gillian, while his tender heart tempts him to once again risk everything for the only woman he'll ever love.
Lady Gillian Farendale is in trouble. Her titled father has dragged her through one London Season after another, until the sheer monotony of the marriage mart and the last vestige of Gillian's once-independent spirit conspire to lead her into a single night of folly. When her adventure goes so very wrong, she has only one old friend to whom she can turn for help.
Colin Lockhart's youthful friendship with Lady Gillian cost him everything, and a duke's by-blow had little enough to start with. He's survived years on London's roughest streets to become a highly successful Bow Street Runner, and his dream of his own inquiry agency is almost within his grasp.
Then Gillian begs him to once again risk angering her powerful father. The ruthless logic of the street tells Colin that he dare not help Gillian, while his tender heart tempts him to once again risk everything for the only woman he'll ever love.
246 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 15, 2020
691 people are currently reading
397 people want to read
About the author
Christi Caldwell
137 books2,561 followersUSA TODAY Bestselling author CHRISTI CALDWELL blames Judith McNaught's "Whitney, My Love!" for luring her into the world of historical romance. While sitting in her graduate school apartment at the University of Connecticut, Christi decided to set aside her notes and pick up her laptop to try her hand at romance. She believes the most perfect heroes and heroines have imperfections, and she rather enjoys torturing them before crafting them a well deserved happily ever after!
Christi makes her home in Charlotte, North Carolina where she spends her time writing her own enchanting historical romances, and baking surprisingly good cakes (almost 2 years in lockdown will do that) with her courageous son and twin daughters, each who with their daily antics provides limitless source material.
Christi makes her home in Charlotte, North Carolina where she spends her time writing her own enchanting historical romances, and baking surprisingly good cakes (almost 2 years in lockdown will do that) with her courageous son and twin daughters, each who with their daily antics provides limitless source material.
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May 9, 2020
To Hold a Lady's Secret
The Heart of a Duke Series #16
Christi Caldwell
https://www.facebook.com/AuthorChrist...
Release date 05/15/2020
Blurb :
Lady Gillian Farendale is in trouble. Her titled father has dragged her through one London Season after another, until the sheer monotony of the marriage mart and the last vestige of Gillian's once-independent spirit conspire to lead her into a single night of folly. When her adventure goes so very wrong, she has only one old friend to whom she can turn for help.
Colin Lockhart’s youthful friendship with Lady Gillian cost him everything, and a duke’s by-blow had little enough to start with. He’s survived years on London’s roughest streets to become a highly successful Bow Street Runner, and his dream of his own inquiry agency is almost within his grasp.
Then Gillian begs him to once again risk angering her powerful father. The ruthless logic of the street tells Colin that he dare not help Gillian, while his tender heart tempts him to once again risk everything for the only woman he’ll ever love.
My review :
Will their childhood friendship hold against time and other’s deeds ...
Oh I just realized it is my first read in this long series, so most of the characters are new to me but it does not matter as Mrs Christi Caldwell has a way to summarize who they are, strengths and flaws.
Gillian was the stubborn unmanageable daughter, more Holden than lady, championship of the weakest and in need.
Until she called too much trouble and find herself in dire circumstances, close to be robbed of her choices, if she has any.
Colin was the friend a lady should never have, and their friendship what ever time it lasted came with a heavy price. From there, he did what he had to to survive and put walls around his heart, as feelings are always doubled with pain.
So when Gillian crashes at his office, she reawakens long ago dormant wounds.
Both were torn apart because of her father’s deeds, a man ready to anything if only to fulfill his own needs.
I loved Colin was non judgmental, seeing where rightly lied the fault, when Gillian sees her burden the right punishment for her one time exaction.
This 4.5 stars fast read demonstrates how Mrs Christi Caldwell brings together two persons everything opposes and should keep apart, but their instant recognition links them immediately.
I was granted an advance copy by the author, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
The Heart of a Duke Series #16
Christi Caldwell
https://www.facebook.com/AuthorChrist...
Release date 05/15/2020
Blurb :
Lady Gillian Farendale is in trouble. Her titled father has dragged her through one London Season after another, until the sheer monotony of the marriage mart and the last vestige of Gillian's once-independent spirit conspire to lead her into a single night of folly. When her adventure goes so very wrong, she has only one old friend to whom she can turn for help.
Colin Lockhart’s youthful friendship with Lady Gillian cost him everything, and a duke’s by-blow had little enough to start with. He’s survived years on London’s roughest streets to become a highly successful Bow Street Runner, and his dream of his own inquiry agency is almost within his grasp.
Then Gillian begs him to once again risk angering her powerful father. The ruthless logic of the street tells Colin that he dare not help Gillian, while his tender heart tempts him to once again risk everything for the only woman he’ll ever love.
My review :
Will their childhood friendship hold against time and other’s deeds ...
Oh I just realized it is my first read in this long series, so most of the characters are new to me but it does not matter as Mrs Christi Caldwell has a way to summarize who they are, strengths and flaws.
Gillian was the stubborn unmanageable daughter, more Holden than lady, championship of the weakest and in need.
Until she called too much trouble and find herself in dire circumstances, close to be robbed of her choices, if she has any.
Colin was the friend a lady should never have, and their friendship what ever time it lasted came with a heavy price. From there, he did what he had to to survive and put walls around his heart, as feelings are always doubled with pain.
So when Gillian crashes at his office, she reawakens long ago dormant wounds.
Both were torn apart because of her father’s deeds, a man ready to anything if only to fulfill his own needs.
I loved Colin was non judgmental, seeing where rightly lied the fault, when Gillian sees her burden the right punishment for her one time exaction.
This 4.5 stars fast read demonstrates how Mrs Christi Caldwell brings together two persons everything opposes and should keep apart, but their instant recognition links them immediately.
I was granted an advance copy by the author, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
May 15, 2020
Lady Gillian Farendale has always had an adventurous spirit, going against the strictures of polite society. So when she finds herself in the worst possible situation, and an unwanted engagement to a terrible man looming, there’s only one person she feels she can turn to, Colin Lockhart. They were unconventional friends when young; Colin, a duke’s bastard-born son and Gillian, a Lady, the daughter of a controlling and unkind marquess. With a written promise from years ago in hand, Gillian shocks Colin when she appears in his office asking his help twelve years later.
There’s a bad history between Colin and her ruthless father, and knowing that going against Lord Ellsworth will risk ruin for his investigative business and future, he turns Gillian away. But later, when allowing himself to relive the long buried memories and remembering how precious that time was, he uses his skills to discover more of her troubles, and his heart leads him on a path to assist his beautiful and dear friend.
The friendship between them only grows stronger as Colin protects and shelters Gillian from the evil and foul men in her life, and they begin to realize the bond that sparked when they were very young is something far deeper. But can there ever be anything more, considering the social difference between them. It was never a concern for Lady Gillian, but as a youth and now years later, will Colin be able to truly overcome the horrid deeds done by her father and trust that love will conquer all?
Their story is heart-wrenching, beautiful, and passionate. To Hold a Lady’s Secret can be read as a stand-alone. It’s wonderful how this Heart of a Duke series continues to bring new and captivating stories, while still building on this awesome family of characters that steal our hearts, and leave us wanting more.
I was fortunate to receive an ARC for my honest opinion, as well as having pre-ordered for my kindle library. I highly recommend this moving and passionate love story, written by the brilliant Christi Caldwell.
There’s a bad history between Colin and her ruthless father, and knowing that going against Lord Ellsworth will risk ruin for his investigative business and future, he turns Gillian away. But later, when allowing himself to relive the long buried memories and remembering how precious that time was, he uses his skills to discover more of her troubles, and his heart leads him on a path to assist his beautiful and dear friend.
The friendship between them only grows stronger as Colin protects and shelters Gillian from the evil and foul men in her life, and they begin to realize the bond that sparked when they were very young is something far deeper. But can there ever be anything more, considering the social difference between them. It was never a concern for Lady Gillian, but as a youth and now years later, will Colin be able to truly overcome the horrid deeds done by her father and trust that love will conquer all?
Their story is heart-wrenching, beautiful, and passionate. To Hold a Lady’s Secret can be read as a stand-alone. It’s wonderful how this Heart of a Duke series continues to bring new and captivating stories, while still building on this awesome family of characters that steal our hearts, and leave us wanting more.
I was fortunate to receive an ARC for my honest opinion, as well as having pre-ordered for my kindle library. I highly recommend this moving and passionate love story, written by the brilliant Christi Caldwell.
May 10, 2020
There’s just something sweet about romances that start with friendship. I love when the romance evolves after the couple has a history together. Especially when they’ve known each other since childhood. There’s just something about that innocent start to their relationship that always tugs at my heart. It’s so easy to identify with the characters when you’ve met them as children and seen what events shaped them. I can’t imagine Colin and Gillian’s story not including their childhood relationship. Their romance develops slowly and allows both of these characters to explore and remember the qualities they’d loved about each other as children and to realize that’s just what they needed now. They’d not just been casual friends. They’d been each other’s only friend. Confidants. An unlikely pair as Gillian had been born and bred in high Society and Colin was the bastard son of a duke who made no claims to him. Still, they’d spent their childhood exploring, playing games, and imagining their futures. They’d looked out for each other. When everyone had looked upon Colin with disdain, Gillian had called them out for that injustice. She treated him as an equal. But Colin had always been aware of the divide that existed between them. And when Gillian’s father forced Colin’s family out of Cheshire, leaving his family struggling to survive, Colin put those childhood memories behind him and focused on making something of his life. Never again would he be that scared and penniless boy. In the years that followed, both Colin and Gillian had never contacted one another. Until twelve years later when in a reckless night of folly, Gillian had been stripped of her decisions and choices. And so Gillian turned to the one person she’d trusted the most in her life. Colin.
This story has all the passion and emotion that I’ve come to know and love from Christi Caldwell. A touching love story with a happy ending, and loveable characters that you’ll be rooting for from the start. Colin and Gillian had such dynamic and emotional personalities and such a poignant history, it seemed as if they were destined to find each other again. Christi Caldwell does a beautiful job of bringing these two characters to life and bringing their lives together. They were so real to me. Christi Caldwell showed their vulnerabilities and their strengths perfectly. I loved them for both reasons. Both carried so much guilt. Gillian blamed herself for what had transpired when she deserved no blame at all. Colin carried such guilt that he was willing to sacrifice his own happiness for those he loved. Only through each other’s eyes did they see how strong they were, how much they had to offer, and how deserving they were of the life they wanted. There are so many layers to their history and their present. Once you start reading, you can’t walk away. With all the craziness in the world right now, it’s so lovely to get lost in Christi Caldwell’s world for a little while, where injustices are righted and love flourishes and perseveres.
This story has all the passion and emotion that I’ve come to know and love from Christi Caldwell. A touching love story with a happy ending, and loveable characters that you’ll be rooting for from the start. Colin and Gillian had such dynamic and emotional personalities and such a poignant history, it seemed as if they were destined to find each other again. Christi Caldwell does a beautiful job of bringing these two characters to life and bringing their lives together. They were so real to me. Christi Caldwell showed their vulnerabilities and their strengths perfectly. I loved them for both reasons. Both carried so much guilt. Gillian blamed herself for what had transpired when she deserved no blame at all. Colin carried such guilt that he was willing to sacrifice his own happiness for those he loved. Only through each other’s eyes did they see how strong they were, how much they had to offer, and how deserving they were of the life they wanted. There are so many layers to their history and their present. Once you start reading, you can’t walk away. With all the craziness in the world right now, it’s so lovely to get lost in Christi Caldwell’s world for a little while, where injustices are righted and love flourishes and perseveres.
June 14, 2023
Mad About Series Challenge 2023.
16 To Hold a Lady’s Secret. H Colin Lockheart ( Detective Agency Owner and former Bow Street Runner) brother to Vail Basingstoke Baron Chilton and many others all bastard children of Duke of Ravenscourt. In this series alone there are 5 main characters of the Dukes legitimate and illegitimate children. Jane, Cedric, Claire, Vail, Colin. In this story there is Colin(MC) Vail, and Cedric. h Gillian Ferandale sister to Genevieve ( married to Cedric) 3 children, her parents Marquess and Marchioness of Ellsworth. Gillian friends: Phoebe ( married to Marquess of Rutland ), Honoria Fairfax, Justina Waters ( married Nick Tallings Duke of Huntley) Francesca ( married to Lanley).
Hangup
Gillian begs Honoria to attend a risqué ball where people have open orgies. She takes a drink of champagne with a drug in it. She is compromised by Baron Barber. A month later he comes to tell her parents he compromised her and offers marriage. She doesn’t want to marry him so she tells her parents she’s engaged.
Meet Cute
After being apart for 12 years Gillian shows up on Colin’s detective agency to reacquaint herself in hopes he will agree to be her fiancé bringing a letter contact they made a teens to marry each other when they were 23.
Epilogue
He initially says no but curiosity brings him to her house and he hears her father yelling at her with displeasure. He takes her with him so they can figure out what to do. Gillian overhears what Vail his brother tells him about her and her father warning him that it will ruin him. Gillian goes back home and her father tells her she will marry Baron Barber. The next day Colin goes to tell her father they are engaged. Her father tells Colin that the deal has already been agreed upon between Gillian and Barber. Colin chokes him to find out what the truth is. The Marquess set up the whole date rape with Barber to get his votes in Parliament. Gillian was just a pawn in his chess game. Colin took Gillian away. They stayed overnight at an Inn and made love. He was going to take her to her friend Francesca’s and then go to Birmingham to set up his detective agency there. Meanwhile Vail went to see Cedric and asked him to take Gillian in. Cedric comes to the Inn to pick her up and take her to his estate. Colin realizes he can’t live without her and follows them and stops the carriage and proposes. A month later they invite all their close friends and family ( not her parents) to celebrate their union.
16 To Hold a Lady’s Secret. H Colin Lockheart ( Detective Agency Owner and former Bow Street Runner) brother to Vail Basingstoke Baron Chilton and many others all bastard children of Duke of Ravenscourt. In this series alone there are 5 main characters of the Dukes legitimate and illegitimate children. Jane, Cedric, Claire, Vail, Colin. In this story there is Colin(MC) Vail, and Cedric. h Gillian Ferandale sister to Genevieve ( married to Cedric) 3 children, her parents Marquess and Marchioness of Ellsworth. Gillian friends: Phoebe ( married to Marquess of Rutland ), Honoria Fairfax, Justina Waters ( married Nick Tallings Duke of Huntley) Francesca ( married to Lanley).
Hangup
Gillian begs Honoria to attend a risqué ball where people have open orgies. She takes a drink of champagne with a drug in it. She is compromised by Baron Barber. A month later he comes to tell her parents he compromised her and offers marriage. She doesn’t want to marry him so she tells her parents she’s engaged.
Meet Cute
After being apart for 12 years Gillian shows up on Colin’s detective agency to reacquaint herself in hopes he will agree to be her fiancé bringing a letter contact they made a teens to marry each other when they were 23.
Epilogue
He initially says no but curiosity brings him to her house and he hears her father yelling at her with displeasure. He takes her with him so they can figure out what to do. Gillian overhears what Vail his brother tells him about her and her father warning him that it will ruin him. Gillian goes back home and her father tells her she will marry Baron Barber. The next day Colin goes to tell her father they are engaged. Her father tells Colin that the deal has already been agreed upon between Gillian and Barber. Colin chokes him to find out what the truth is. The Marquess set up the whole date rape with Barber to get his votes in Parliament. Gillian was just a pawn in his chess game. Colin took Gillian away. They stayed overnight at an Inn and made love. He was going to take her to her friend Francesca’s and then go to Birmingham to set up his detective agency there. Meanwhile Vail went to see Cedric and asked him to take Gillian in. Cedric comes to the Inn to pick her up and take her to his estate. Colin realizes he can’t live without her and follows them and stops the carriage and proposes. A month later they invite all their close friends and family ( not her parents) to celebrate their union.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 16, 2020
"Not," she finished for her father. "I said I will not marry Lord Barber."
He (her father) seethed, his eyes bulging.."Your options, I fear, given the circumstances, are limited."
"I will not marry him," she said coming to her feet. "You see, I am already betrothed."
Well that went well! Now Gilliam had to work on finding a betrothed!
Gillian found herself in a dire straits, part of her own making for sneaking out to go to the masquerade ball and then the rest, the scoundrel who was determined to get her dowry by forcing her to marry him.
But she was going to do the one thing she hoped she could depend upon. Find her childhood friend Colin and remind him of his promise. Yes that had been twelve years ago .... She had kept the childish contract.
Colin was the bastard of a Duke and although he and Gillian, the daughter of a Marquess had been friends as children, it was her father who had run him and his family off. He had worked hard and ended up a Bow Street Runner and just opened his own detective agency. He did not even recognize Gillian when she came to his office, unfolded that contract that said he would marry her if by twenty three she was unwed and wanted to..
Although a little heartbreaking at first, Christy infused her tantalizing humor and brought the thoughts and emotions alive in this tale of unlikely long ago friends that still have ties, even though neither acknowledge it until if was needed. She pens the wounded hero so brilliant and believable, with a heroine that has her own wounded soul. It is amazing to witness how the pull between them grows and the journey they take that melts the heart.
Truly a story I will not soon forget and as always cannot wait for more from this amazing author!
He (her father) seethed, his eyes bulging.."Your options, I fear, given the circumstances, are limited."
"I will not marry him," she said coming to her feet. "You see, I am already betrothed."
Well that went well! Now Gilliam had to work on finding a betrothed!
Gillian found herself in a dire straits, part of her own making for sneaking out to go to the masquerade ball and then the rest, the scoundrel who was determined to get her dowry by forcing her to marry him.
But she was going to do the one thing she hoped she could depend upon. Find her childhood friend Colin and remind him of his promise. Yes that had been twelve years ago .... She had kept the childish contract.
Colin was the bastard of a Duke and although he and Gillian, the daughter of a Marquess had been friends as children, it was her father who had run him and his family off. He had worked hard and ended up a Bow Street Runner and just opened his own detective agency. He did not even recognize Gillian when she came to his office, unfolded that contract that said he would marry her if by twenty three she was unwed and wanted to..
Although a little heartbreaking at first, Christy infused her tantalizing humor and brought the thoughts and emotions alive in this tale of unlikely long ago friends that still have ties, even though neither acknowledge it until if was needed. She pens the wounded hero so brilliant and believable, with a heroine that has her own wounded soul. It is amazing to witness how the pull between them grows and the journey they take that melts the heart.
Truly a story I will not soon forget and as always cannot wait for more from this amazing author!
May 31, 2020
Colin and Gillian
Okay admission time. I’ve been saving this beauty for reading at a time when the world was a bit less hectic. Owing to the fact that the event seems more far off than ever, last night and this morning appeared to be an appropriate time.
Childhood besties! My favorite trope. Once again Christi Caldwell has breathed fresh life into my favorite trope. Lady Gillian Farandale has recklessly found herself in a pickle and seeks out her best friend from childhood for aid.
Colin Lockhart, the former acclaimed Bow Street runner, now struggling private detective, doesn’t need this drama in his life. His honor and their connection; however, will not allow him to deny his only childhood friend.
As always, Caldwell’s writing is infused with such emotion. There are so many unspoken feelings as this couple struggles to overcome obstacles to their pairing. She makes it believable and takes her readers on this emotional journey leading to a satisfying ending.
May the illicitly prolific Duke of Ravenscourt continue to provide us with fodder (characters) to swoon over and adore. Read it if you haven’t already. I never want this series to end. So many interesting characters who deserve a happy ever after are yet remaining. I, for one, am here for every single story.
Okay admission time. I’ve been saving this beauty for reading at a time when the world was a bit less hectic. Owing to the fact that the event seems more far off than ever, last night and this morning appeared to be an appropriate time.
Childhood besties! My favorite trope. Once again Christi Caldwell has breathed fresh life into my favorite trope. Lady Gillian Farandale has recklessly found herself in a pickle and seeks out her best friend from childhood for aid.
Colin Lockhart, the former acclaimed Bow Street runner, now struggling private detective, doesn’t need this drama in his life. His honor and their connection; however, will not allow him to deny his only childhood friend.
As always, Caldwell’s writing is infused with such emotion. There are so many unspoken feelings as this couple struggles to overcome obstacles to their pairing. She makes it believable and takes her readers on this emotional journey leading to a satisfying ending.
May the illicitly prolific Duke of Ravenscourt continue to provide us with fodder (characters) to swoon over and adore. Read it if you haven’t already. I never want this series to end. So many interesting characters who deserve a happy ever after are yet remaining. I, for one, am here for every single story.
June 11, 2020
Christi Caldwell does another great job with her Hearts of a Duke Series. Gillian and Colin met as children. She was the daughter of a Marquess and he was the illegitimate son of a Duke who's family lived on their estate. As children they made a pact that if they hadn't married anyone by the time they were 23 they would marry each other.
Fast forward 12 years, Gillian has been ruined and her father is insisting that she marry the man who did it (he drugged her and only wants her for the money). Colin is now a detective in London when she shows up at his office asking him to make good on his promise to marry her.
The two characters are well written and you can see how they struggle to figure out what to do while the fall in love. Gillian's parents are delightfully villainous and you can't help but hate them a little.
When the Happily Ever After comes it is worth the wait.
Fast forward 12 years, Gillian has been ruined and her father is insisting that she marry the man who did it (he drugged her and only wants her for the money). Colin is now a detective in London when she shows up at his office asking him to make good on his promise to marry her.
The two characters are well written and you can see how they struggle to figure out what to do while the fall in love. Gillian's parents are delightfully villainous and you can't help but hate them a little.
When the Happily Ever After comes it is worth the wait.
June 17, 2024
i was entertained by the dynamic of gillian and colin. they were treated different despite in similar social status, as colin was a bastard child of a duke, but were friends at a young age. when gillian needed a quick out of an arranged marriage, she reached out to colin. their attraction ignited pretty quickly and there wasn’t too much of a drama as they got together. overall, i enjoyed it~
August 2, 2020
A nice steamy friends to lovers historical romance. 3.5 stars
May 17, 2020
Disappointing
Having read several of the author's books, the word I'm now associating with the books is "disappointing" . Why? Because they've become formulaic and the characters are interchangeable; so much so, that they are forgettable. This book, like so many others in the series, introduce an H who hems and haws through the majority of the book only to find out at the very end he loves the h and can't live without her. Then you have the h who spends the majority of the book finding herself in situations that require the H to save her, and at the end she finally finds the courage to tell him she loves him.
I find it hard to believe that the two main characters would go from being friends at the age of 11 or 12 (the book never really tells us their ages, but supposedly they were friends from birth but that seems incongruous since she was nobility and he was born in the wrong side of the blanket) to being apart for 12 years and then within a few days they are reintroduced, have sex, express their love and live happily ever after. Also hard to believe that the h would attend the same type of party she knew had brought so much heartache and pain to her older sister, just so she could have excitement.
It could be me but I also thought the villains did not receive their just desserts and should have been dealt with more harshly given that the h was sexually assaulted with the approval of her father. Needless to say, I have since forgotten the characters of this book and won't be reading this author again.
Having read several of the author's books, the word I'm now associating with the books is "disappointing" . Why? Because they've become formulaic and the characters are interchangeable; so much so, that they are forgettable. This book, like so many others in the series, introduce an H who hems and haws through the majority of the book only to find out at the very end he loves the h and can't live without her. Then you have the h who spends the majority of the book finding herself in situations that require the H to save her, and at the end she finally finds the courage to tell him she loves him.
I find it hard to believe that the two main characters would go from being friends at the age of 11 or 12 (the book never really tells us their ages, but supposedly they were friends from birth but that seems incongruous since she was nobility and he was born in the wrong side of the blanket) to being apart for 12 years and then within a few days they are reintroduced, have sex, express their love and live happily ever after. Also hard to believe that the h would attend the same type of party she knew had brought so much heartache and pain to her older sister, just so she could have excitement.
It could be me but I also thought the villains did not receive their just desserts and should have been dealt with more harshly given that the h was sexually assaulted with the approval of her father. Needless to say, I have since forgotten the characters of this book and won't be reading this author again.
May 15, 2020
The mistake that Lady Gillian Farendale made by attending a notorious masquerade, has finally caught up with her. Now her unfeeling parents want her to make things right, but doing that would destroy her spirit.
Gillian seeks out her childhood best friend, Colin Lockhart, one if the numerous bastard sons of the Duke of Ravenscourt, for help. She is praying that the promise they made as children would finally be able to be fulfilled. When Colin, now a struggling private investigator in London is reunited with Gillian, things don’t exactly work out how Gillian thought they would and she is disheartened as well as desperate.
As soon as Colin sends Gillian away, he regrets it. His past with her comes rushing back and he realizes that she still means more to him than is prudent for a Lady and a bastard. Her desperation brings him to action and neither of their lives will ever be the same.
Lady Gillian Farendale is one of my favorite of author Christi Caldwell’s heroines. She is matter of fact, she doesn’t blame anyone for her actions and take complete responsibility for decisions she has made, good or bad. Despite the crime that was committed against her, she is strong and resilient and deserving of a bright future with a caring man. The one man she has been on her mind since she was a young girl getting into mischief, Colin Lockhart
Colin Lockhart has been on his own since his banishment from the Farendale lands, caring for his sister and mother. Discovered on the streets by a brother, another bastard son, Colin picks himself up and sets out to create a new life for himself as a private investigator. He is consumed with his business and until Gillian reappears in his life, he is rather solitary in his existence, keeping a small circle of a few of the brothers and his beloved sister. He is considered to be common if not below that for being a bastard, but has more integrity, compassion and honor than any man in the ton.
To Hold a Lady’s Secret is one of my favorite Christi Caldwell books to date. While some of the subject matter is not an easy one, the story is superb and getting to that prefect ending is just a marvel. This story is meaningful and compassionate and will stay with me for quite a while. Bravo Ms. Caldwell…
Gillian seeks out her childhood best friend, Colin Lockhart, one if the numerous bastard sons of the Duke of Ravenscourt, for help. She is praying that the promise they made as children would finally be able to be fulfilled. When Colin, now a struggling private investigator in London is reunited with Gillian, things don’t exactly work out how Gillian thought they would and she is disheartened as well as desperate.
As soon as Colin sends Gillian away, he regrets it. His past with her comes rushing back and he realizes that she still means more to him than is prudent for a Lady and a bastard. Her desperation brings him to action and neither of their lives will ever be the same.
Lady Gillian Farendale is one of my favorite of author Christi Caldwell’s heroines. She is matter of fact, she doesn’t blame anyone for her actions and take complete responsibility for decisions she has made, good or bad. Despite the crime that was committed against her, she is strong and resilient and deserving of a bright future with a caring man. The one man she has been on her mind since she was a young girl getting into mischief, Colin Lockhart
Colin Lockhart has been on his own since his banishment from the Farendale lands, caring for his sister and mother. Discovered on the streets by a brother, another bastard son, Colin picks himself up and sets out to create a new life for himself as a private investigator. He is consumed with his business and until Gillian reappears in his life, he is rather solitary in his existence, keeping a small circle of a few of the brothers and his beloved sister. He is considered to be common if not below that for being a bastard, but has more integrity, compassion and honor than any man in the ton.
To Hold a Lady’s Secret is one of my favorite Christi Caldwell books to date. While some of the subject matter is not an easy one, the story is superb and getting to that prefect ending is just a marvel. This story is meaningful and compassionate and will stay with me for quite a while. Bravo Ms. Caldwell…
May 11, 2020
Gillian's father is insisting the she marry the man that compromised her, but she isn't about to spend the rest of her life with the man that took her innocence against her will. With no one else to turn to, she goes to her best friend from childhood. They haven't seen each other in many years, but Gillian hopes that he won't turn her away.
Colin's childhood friendship with Gillian cost him everything. He is finally about to see his dreams come true when she barges into his life again. He doesn't want to take the chance of losing everything again, but his heart tells him that he has to do everything he can to help her.
Can Colin help Gillian get out of this unwanted marriage? Will these long, lost friends find that there could be more to their relationship now that they are adults?
I absolutely adored Gillian and Colin's story!! I loved that the relationship that they had as children, sorta of just picked up where they left off (well, plus the sexual tension now that they are adults, LOL!). They were back teasing each other almost from the start. I just love stories where the H/H have known one another since childhood because you really feel like they know one another and it isn't all just a physical attraction. This was a great addition to the Hear of a Duke series!
Colin's childhood friendship with Gillian cost him everything. He is finally about to see his dreams come true when she barges into his life again. He doesn't want to take the chance of losing everything again, but his heart tells him that he has to do everything he can to help her.
Can Colin help Gillian get out of this unwanted marriage? Will these long, lost friends find that there could be more to their relationship now that they are adults?
I absolutely adored Gillian and Colin's story!! I loved that the relationship that they had as children, sorta of just picked up where they left off (well, plus the sexual tension now that they are adults, LOL!). They were back teasing each other almost from the start. I just love stories where the H/H have known one another since childhood because you really feel like they know one another and it isn't all just a physical attraction. This was a great addition to the Hear of a Duke series!
May 9, 2020
There is a quiet warmth to Christi Caldwell’s books. They are like old friends you sit down with and have a cup of tea in a cozy chair in front of a fire. This book is no different.
Gillian and Colin shared a friendship in their youth that transcended society’s norms. He was the bastard son of a Duke, she was the nobleman’s daughter. It was an innocent friendship. She came up with a pact between them that if she didn’t marry by age 24, Colin would marry her. She did not forget this, and when she found herself in trouble, Colin was who she sought help.
Colin and his family had been turned out of Gillian’s estate because her father disapproved of their friendship. The resulting consequence saw Colin thieving to support his mother and sister. He was rescued by his half brother and became a very successful Bow Street Runner. Gillian comes to him while he has established his own detective agency.
Gillian made a huge mistake in attending a demimonde masquerade ball. She thought it would be exciting. Instead, it became her downfall. This is when she comes to Colin for help. Their reuniting is a joy to read as they navigate their way through her dilemma and on to their HEA.
Gillian and Colin shared a friendship in their youth that transcended society’s norms. He was the bastard son of a Duke, she was the nobleman’s daughter. It was an innocent friendship. She came up with a pact between them that if she didn’t marry by age 24, Colin would marry her. She did not forget this, and when she found herself in trouble, Colin was who she sought help.
Colin and his family had been turned out of Gillian’s estate because her father disapproved of their friendship. The resulting consequence saw Colin thieving to support his mother and sister. He was rescued by his half brother and became a very successful Bow Street Runner. Gillian comes to him while he has established his own detective agency.
Gillian made a huge mistake in attending a demimonde masquerade ball. She thought it would be exciting. Instead, it became her downfall. This is when she comes to Colin for help. Their reuniting is a joy to read as they navigate their way through her dilemma and on to their HEA.
May 12, 2020
This is a story I have been looking forward to reading for some time, it is a welcome addition to Christi’s Heart of a Duke series. Our heroine, Gillian and hero Colin have both appeared in previous stories as secondary characters. We discover that they were childhood friends, forced apart but now years later circumstances force Gillian to seek out Colin for help. Along the way family secrets are revealed that force our couple to make difficult choices, ultimately the strong bond forged as children cannot be broken. Although there is some dark material within the story, there are many lighter moments with laughs to be had and our couple find love and a happy ever after. This is what sets Christi apart from other regency writers, she tackles difficult subject matters with solid writing, her characters have depth and you genuinely feel for them. She cleverly mixes drama and comedy throughout her books and of course there is always a happy ending. This can be read as a stand alone but characters from previous books appear who you will want to find out more about after you finish. I highly recommend this book.
June 8, 2020
Lady Gillian Farendale was a woman with her own mind, that generally landed her into trouble, and this time was no different, maneuvered into a scandal by a man with no honor, Gillian did the only thing she could do, reach out to her childhood friend, to enact a childhood promise.
Colin Lockhart was a Duke's by blow and a man that took a lot of things on his shoulders, and the last thing he needed was Gillian turning up and bringing the bad memories, including the ones of her father evicting his mother, but Gillian was the only person who has ever tried to be his friend, and he made her a promise.
Christi Caldwell's talent at writing blows me away with every book of hers that I read, but I have to say that The Heart of a Duke series has truly been one of my favorites and To Hold a Lady's Secret just adds to that successful series. The author also has the ability to write works that are new and refreshing and in the world of historical romance that is an outstanding thing to do.
Colin Lockhart was a Duke's by blow and a man that took a lot of things on his shoulders, and the last thing he needed was Gillian turning up and bringing the bad memories, including the ones of her father evicting his mother, but Gillian was the only person who has ever tried to be his friend, and he made her a promise.
Christi Caldwell's talent at writing blows me away with every book of hers that I read, but I have to say that The Heart of a Duke series has truly been one of my favorites and To Hold a Lady's Secret just adds to that successful series. The author also has the ability to write works that are new and refreshing and in the world of historical romance that is an outstanding thing to do.
May 10, 2020
Children love unconditionally, and for Gillian, she has always kept that love for Colin in her heart. This is a story of pure, simple love. After a cruel manipulation directed by her father, Gillian runs to Colin, a man she hasn’t spoken to since her childhood. I don’t write spoilers, but what we get to feel is the connection between these two people as they discover each other after 12 years. Gillian’s father is a horrible person with no redeeming features whatsoever. However, without his evil, Colin and Gillian may have never gotten together! I could have spent many more hours getting to know Colin and Gillian because they are just two very wonderful people. Once again, Christi Caldwell took us right into the heart and soul of her characters, and it’s a very warm place to be! I received a free read of this story in exchange for a honest review.
May 20, 2020
Warmth of love
This is the story one would need at these tumultuous times. This is a story that wraps your heart with a blanket of friendship and then slowly the warmth of love seeps within and makes you believe everything will be fine.
This was a long awaited story, we knew both the hero and the heroine from the other stories of the series, but never knew about their connection. This was such a wonderful surprise. Christi Caldwell always has a beautiful way of portraying her characters, so that each one of them feel so very familiar, so very close. This story is no exception. I enjoyed the journey of Colin and Gillian, and also how the other characters we knew from previous stories interacted with them.
I couldn't stop till I reached till the end...so engrossed was I with this story. No twists and turns, but full of warmth...
This is the story one would need at these tumultuous times. This is a story that wraps your heart with a blanket of friendship and then slowly the warmth of love seeps within and makes you believe everything will be fine.
This was a long awaited story, we knew both the hero and the heroine from the other stories of the series, but never knew about their connection. This was such a wonderful surprise. Christi Caldwell always has a beautiful way of portraying her characters, so that each one of them feel so very familiar, so very close. This story is no exception. I enjoyed the journey of Colin and Gillian, and also how the other characters we knew from previous stories interacted with them.
I couldn't stop till I reached till the end...so engrossed was I with this story. No twists and turns, but full of warmth...
May 25, 2020
To Hold a Lady’s Secret by Christi Caldwell
Heart of a Duke Series Book Sixteen
Colin Lockhart was born on the wrong side of the blanket. His “father” an uncaring duke who left a trail of unclaimed children in his wake. At least Colin had Cheshire and Gillian as a child. Until his family was forced to leave there.
Lady Gillian Farendale had one day found her friend and his family gone. Their cottage empty. Never knowing why. But, when she fell into deep trouble, she knew she could count on Colin. As kids, they had made a promise to each other, and she was going to collect it.
Wonderful story. Several of their friends and family had previous stories. I always enjoy connecting stories with characters the reader has “met” before.
**Sexual content and language
https://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com...
Heart of a Duke Series Book Sixteen
Colin Lockhart was born on the wrong side of the blanket. His “father” an uncaring duke who left a trail of unclaimed children in his wake. At least Colin had Cheshire and Gillian as a child. Until his family was forced to leave there.
Lady Gillian Farendale had one day found her friend and his family gone. Their cottage empty. Never knowing why. But, when she fell into deep trouble, she knew she could count on Colin. As kids, they had made a promise to each other, and she was going to collect it.
Wonderful story. Several of their friends and family had previous stories. I always enjoy connecting stories with characters the reader has “met” before.
**Sexual content and language
https://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com...
May 26, 2020
Loved it!
In To Hold a Lady’s Secret, author Christi Caldwell revisits her Heart of a Duke series. Gillian Farendale finally gets a chance at love, with her childhood best friend Colin Lockhart, another bastard born child of the Duke of Ravenscourt. The story was both heart-warming and heart-wrenching at times, but with the happily ever after you expect! As usual, Caldwell’s main characters are written with a mix of strength and vulnerability, that when put together they become the perfect pair. The secondary characters written so well that you either love or hate them, and in To Hold a Lady’s Secret you can’t help but love Miss Pyatt! I hope we will see another book in the Heart of the Duke series, as I loved the series and I loved To Hold a Lady’s Secret!
In To Hold a Lady’s Secret, author Christi Caldwell revisits her Heart of a Duke series. Gillian Farendale finally gets a chance at love, with her childhood best friend Colin Lockhart, another bastard born child of the Duke of Ravenscourt. The story was both heart-warming and heart-wrenching at times, but with the happily ever after you expect! As usual, Caldwell’s main characters are written with a mix of strength and vulnerability, that when put together they become the perfect pair. The secondary characters written so well that you either love or hate them, and in To Hold a Lady’s Secret you can’t help but love Miss Pyatt! I hope we will see another book in the Heart of the Duke series, as I loved the series and I loved To Hold a Lady’s Secret!
July 27, 2020
Rating: 1
I only finished it because I usually like Christi Caldwell's books so I wanted to power through and finish it to give it a fighting chance.
I found either main character pretty unremarkable. There was no reason to like them but there wasn't a reason to dislike them either.
I found the story quite shallow in regards to the story development and character development. We were told they were great friends but I didn't feel the friendship nor did I feel the love when they realized it.
The parents were vile, especially Gillian's father.
I only finished it because I usually like Christi Caldwell's books so I wanted to power through and finish it to give it a fighting chance.
I found either main character pretty unremarkable. There was no reason to like them but there wasn't a reason to dislike them either.
I found the story quite shallow in regards to the story development and character development. We were told they were great friends but I didn't feel the friendship nor did I feel the love when they realized it.
The parents were vile, especially Gillian's father.
February 13, 2021
An awesome story
Colin - co owner of an investigation company.
Gillian - headstrong and independent not to much where she's an idiot but just the right amount where she makes the best decision for her and not others who plan her ruination.
I enjoyed reading this captivating story of childhood sweethearts/friends who were separated then brought back together through circumstances that may or may not be the making of her own. This well written story with charismatic characters has a wonderful HEA.
Colin - co owner of an investigation company.
Gillian - headstrong and independent not to much where she's an idiot but just the right amount where she makes the best decision for her and not others who plan her ruination.
I enjoyed reading this captivating story of childhood sweethearts/friends who were separated then brought back together through circumstances that may or may not be the making of her own. This well written story with charismatic characters has a wonderful HEA.
May 19, 2020
Loved it
These two characters have been in other stories by Christi Caldwell and as fans of those books,we have been waiting for their story. This was all that could be hoped for for Gillian and Colin. Friends has children, separated by evil, she sought out her best friend when she needed help the most. He tried to forget her,but when she called upon him he answered. This time, forever!
These two characters have been in other stories by Christi Caldwell and as fans of those books,we have been waiting for their story. This was all that could be hoped for for Gillian and Colin. Friends has children, separated by evil, she sought out her best friend when she needed help the most. He tried to forget her,but when she called upon him he answered. This time, forever!
May 20, 2020
To Hold a Lady's Secret (The Heart of a Duke Book 16) by Christi Caldwell is one of my new favorites. It seems that is the case with each story that comes out. Lady Gillian Farendale and Colin Lockhart were unlikely childhood friends. She's the daughter of a Marquess and he's the bastard of a Duke. As an adult, she is ruined and turns to her old friend for help. The journey to HEA begins. I don't want to give away the story but I will say it is well worth the read.
May 24, 2020
So sigh worthy!
Colin was a bastard born son of a Duke. Gillian was the daughter of a Marquis and forbidden to be his friend as children. But they defied everyone and were best friends until her father interfered and Colin and his family were turned out into the street. Twelve years later Gillian is in trouble and looks to Colin for help! Once again Christi Caldwell makes her story and characters so real they become your friends.
Colin was a bastard born son of a Duke. Gillian was the daughter of a Marquis and forbidden to be his friend as children. But they defied everyone and were best friends until her father interfered and Colin and his family were turned out into the street. Twelve years later Gillian is in trouble and looks to Colin for help! Once again Christi Caldwell makes her story and characters so real they become your friends.
July 25, 2020
Lady's Secret
This is another fabulous book by Christi! I love her style of writing and always enjoy her books. The characters are interesting and entertaining. I found myself laughing in the very beginning of the book. Gillian was quite the character at twelve. I was determined not to like Colin when Gillian first went to him to help her. But he had learned to close his emotions from last hurts. Fabulous summer read.
This is another fabulous book by Christi! I love her style of writing and always enjoy her books. The characters are interesting and entertaining. I found myself laughing in the very beginning of the book. Gillian was quite the character at twelve. I was determined not to like Colin when Gillian first went to him to help her. But he had learned to close his emotions from last hurts. Fabulous summer read.
February 9, 2021
Outstanding
I knew Gillian am would have an outstanding story. The characters were well-written and easy to love. There were a few heart breaking moments, but also many laughs. I love how the characters are intertwined and how well the background story was incorporated. Before reading this book I re-read the series. I enjoyed every minute of it. Each book can be read alone. Christi Caldwell is an amazing author.
I knew Gillian am would have an outstanding story. The characters were well-written and easy to love. There were a few heart breaking moments, but also many laughs. I love how the characters are intertwined and how well the background story was incorporated. Before reading this book I re-read the series. I enjoyed every minute of it. Each book can be read alone. Christi Caldwell is an amazing author.
July 31, 2021
Like the rest of this series, it's a fun, light read. Caldwell has some of the more quality work in this genre and these are great for a long plane ride or some relaxing downtime.
There are many similarities to the stories - but it's still fun to read the steamy romances and new ways unexpected lovers find each other and make it work.
There are many similarities to the stories - but it's still fun to read the steamy romances and new ways unexpected lovers find each other and make it work.
March 9, 2024
For more than a half of the book I was convinced it will be a mediocre 3 star read, but even though the events happening did not make sense to me, the relationship between Gillian and Collin just hit me at one point. Their friendship is so precious, growing into love. And since I finished the book with damp lovey-dovey eyes, I had no choice but to give it 4 stars.
May 16, 2020
Secrets really can be forever
The story line is darling and endearing starting with two young children who desperately need each other. The only draw back it’s to short , for those of you who want more , we’ll all have to wait for the next book.
The story line is darling and endearing starting with two young children who desperately need each other. The only draw back it’s to short , for those of you who want more , we’ll all have to wait for the next book.
May 21, 2020
A series that just keeps giving
This is another brilliantly written story that has some great surprises and a brilliant addition to the series. I hope that it is not complete yet. This is a book that will suit anybody who loves spicy historical romances
This is another brilliantly written story that has some great surprises and a brilliant addition to the series. I hope that it is not complete yet. This is a book that will suit anybody who loves spicy historical romances
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