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Wharton #3
An Orphan for the Duke
A broken duke.
An unexpected arrival.
Can her presence heal the man who swore never to love again?
Seven years ago, the Duke of Devonshire’s heart was shattered. After his late-wife’s death, the duke immersed himself in work and duty so he could numb the pain. Despite his possession of immense wealth, a historic title, strikingly handsome looks, and not few possible prospects, he wants for nothing in this world – except to be left alone.
That solitude ends suddenly with the arrival of a desperate letter from an old friend, containing his dying wish that the duke care for his daughter. The duke, unable to ignore his dying friend’s appeal, orders the house to be prepared for the child’s arrival – much-loved toys and dolls, a room with the best views in the front of the house, and a swing in the garden. Only a few days later, Isabella arrives at the luxurious Hardwick Manor.
She is a shock to the duke – in both age and appearance. He was expecting a child, and not a stunningly beautiful woman!
What fate awaits the woman who has lost everything? What of the duke who has sworn never to love again?
An Orphan for the Duke is a standalone, sweet Regency romance. If you like charming love stories, honourable heroes, and lush period settings, then you’ll adore Audrey Ashwood’s touching tale. 200 pages. No cliffhanger.
An unexpected arrival.
Can her presence heal the man who swore never to love again?
Seven years ago, the Duke of Devonshire’s heart was shattered. After his late-wife’s death, the duke immersed himself in work and duty so he could numb the pain. Despite his possession of immense wealth, a historic title, strikingly handsome looks, and not few possible prospects, he wants for nothing in this world – except to be left alone.
That solitude ends suddenly with the arrival of a desperate letter from an old friend, containing his dying wish that the duke care for his daughter. The duke, unable to ignore his dying friend’s appeal, orders the house to be prepared for the child’s arrival – much-loved toys and dolls, a room with the best views in the front of the house, and a swing in the garden. Only a few days later, Isabella arrives at the luxurious Hardwick Manor.
She is a shock to the duke – in both age and appearance. He was expecting a child, and not a stunningly beautiful woman!
What fate awaits the woman who has lost everything? What of the duke who has sworn never to love again?
An Orphan for the Duke is a standalone, sweet Regency romance. If you like charming love stories, honourable heroes, and lush period settings, then you’ll adore Audrey Ashwood’s touching tale. 200 pages. No cliffhanger.
342 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 6, 2020
331 people are currently reading
130 people want to read
About the author
Audrey Ashwood
13 books31 followersAudrey Ashwood hails from London, the city where she was born and raised. At a young age, she began diving into the world of literature, a world full of fairytales and Prince Charmings. Writing came later—no longer was she a spectator of fantasies; she was now a creator of them.
In her books, the villains get their just desserts—her stories are known for happy and deserved endings. Love, of course, plays a major role, even if it’s not the initial star of the show. With each written word, Audrey hopes to remind people that love transcends oceans and generations.
In her books, the villains get their just desserts—her stories are known for happy and deserved endings. Love, of course, plays a major role, even if it’s not the initial star of the show. With each written word, Audrey hopes to remind people that love transcends oceans and generations.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
October 26, 2021
Quickly Fly The Years...
SWEET Regency Romance💕 with Crime Elements
A debt for life is made when a boy, John Thornton, future Earl of Chatham , saves the life of young Matthew Danvers, future Duke of Devonshire, by rescuing him and a 🐕puppy from drowning. The 🐕puppy belongs to Georgiana, Matthew's future wife.
The two boys grow to men and grow apart when they take on their titles, especially Matthew, because there is so much work that goes with owning so many properties and having so many servants to provide for. He is devastated💔 when Georgiana dies in childbirth. Life goes on alone for him and he thinks he will never love💕 again.
Years fly by⏳ and one day a letter comes from his old friend, John, the Earl of Chatham. He is calling in his marker for the debt owed by asking Matthew🐺 to become the guardian for his daughter Isabella💃. John is dying and trusts only Matthew🐺 to protect his daughter.
Assuming Isabella💃 to be a child, Matthew🐺 and his mother👵 and sister👩 are surprised when a beautiful young woman of twenty one arrives!
ARC Provided by Booksprout🌱
I also got this ebook with KU.
This is a serious sad story for me for some reason. Matthew was immediately interested in Isabella, but he thought could never love again, and tried to avoid Isabella. Isabella fell in love with Matthew immediately, but the secrets of her family made her think she could never find anyone for a husband, because she felt she was ruined, socially.
SWEET Regency Romance💕 with Crime Elements
A debt for life is made when a boy, John Thornton, future Earl of Chatham , saves the life of young Matthew Danvers, future Duke of Devonshire, by rescuing him and a 🐕puppy from drowning. The 🐕puppy belongs to Georgiana, Matthew's future wife.
The two boys grow to men and grow apart when they take on their titles, especially Matthew, because there is so much work that goes with owning so many properties and having so many servants to provide for. He is devastated💔 when Georgiana dies in childbirth. Life goes on alone for him and he thinks he will never love💕 again.
Years fly by⏳ and one day a letter comes from his old friend, John, the Earl of Chatham. He is calling in his marker for the debt owed by asking Matthew🐺 to become the guardian for his daughter Isabella💃. John is dying and trusts only Matthew🐺 to protect his daughter.
Assuming Isabella💃 to be a child, Matthew🐺 and his mother👵 and sister👩 are surprised when a beautiful young woman of twenty one arrives!
ARC Provided by Booksprout🌱
I also got this ebook with KU.
This is a serious sad story for me for some reason. Matthew was immediately interested in Isabella, but he thought could never love again, and tried to avoid Isabella. Isabella fell in love with Matthew immediately, but the secrets of her family made her think she could never find anyone for a husband, because she felt she was ruined, socially.
December 10, 2021
A bit boring, dragged unnecessarily every time someone had to say something important and the romance/chemistry was nonexistent. Also the ending was rushed and was unrealistic to say the least.
Content: Squeaky clean
Content: Squeaky clean
August 12, 2024
It is nicely written but ultimately there is no chemistry between the main couple.
June 19, 2020
Reads like a true Recency romance, prim and proper. Sweet story
March 18, 2021
I had many probelms with this book.
1. The two characters, Matthew and Isabella, had, if you count, only been in one another's company like three or four times during a time line of like six months. And what, we are supposed to belive they fall in love, that quickly? I mean I understand that some people are just attracted to one another and that could move a long a romance. But Matthew and Isabella never led on that they were attracted to one another. They admitted that they were fascinated by eachother, but that was all.
2. The age difference. I understand that during that period of time, it wasn;t uncommon that a woman and a man married, and there was alarge age difference. Like in the book Emma, by Jane Ausetn, Emma marries Mr. Knightly, and he is thirteen years older then she is. But Matthew is 43 years old, and Isabella is 21 0r 22(i've already forgotten, if that gives you any idea of how this book was). I mean, come on, 22 years older then Isabella? Not to mention that she was his best friend's daughter. I mean people do have morals, when it comes to things like that. Also, during that time period, it was usaully aroud the age of fifty that a man was considered old. Like men were considered old old at that age. Anyway, the age difference was just disturbed me immensly. I have read books where the main male character was much older then the main female character. But this one was just disturbing.
3. Also, this book dosen't make sense when is came to the part of the coming out ball for Diana, Matthew's younger sister, and Isabella. In that time, especailly in England, girls had their coming out when they were like sixteen. Isabella and Diana were 21, and 22, before their coming out ball. So, that was one thing didn't make any sense.
So, as you can see there were problems with this book, to say the least. The idea wasn't great, not in the slightest. I was not expecting this book to go the way it did. The book was also quite boring. I felt like it just dragged and dragged and never got anywhere. The characters were formed well enough, but i felt like i never knew enough about the characters to really dertermine if they were consistent or not. The writing was actaully really good, surprsingly, but in every other category, the book was meh. I didn't like the book. At times it took everything in me not to cry, because it was so bad. And because i am not one not to not finish a book, no matter how bad it is, it was doubly difficult to keep turning the pages.
I had been excited to read this book, and was completly dispointed by it. I am sooooo glad i got the kindle version, becaus ei would have been horribly angry with myself, if i had spent $15 on this book, rathe rthen $4.
I don't recomend it. I have read better romances then this. In fact, i reccomend, books by Sarah. M. Eden. She is truly good at writing romances, and her stories never leave me yearning. They are so good. They don't lack content, or character develpment and always possess a solid plot. I never cry in books, EVER. So, when i read Sarah M. Eden's book, A Glimmer of Hope, and it made me cry? I knew it was a good book, which it was.
1. The two characters, Matthew and Isabella, had, if you count, only been in one another's company like three or four times during a time line of like six months. And what, we are supposed to belive they fall in love, that quickly? I mean I understand that some people are just attracted to one another and that could move a long a romance. But Matthew and Isabella never led on that they were attracted to one another. They admitted that they were fascinated by eachother, but that was all.
2. The age difference. I understand that during that period of time, it wasn;t uncommon that a woman and a man married, and there was alarge age difference. Like in the book Emma, by Jane Ausetn, Emma marries Mr. Knightly, and he is thirteen years older then she is. But Matthew is 43 years old, and Isabella is 21 0r 22(i've already forgotten, if that gives you any idea of how this book was). I mean, come on, 22 years older then Isabella? Not to mention that she was his best friend's daughter. I mean people do have morals, when it comes to things like that. Also, during that time period, it was usaully aroud the age of fifty that a man was considered old. Like men were considered old old at that age. Anyway, the age difference was just disturbed me immensly. I have read books where the main male character was much older then the main female character. But this one was just disturbing.
3. Also, this book dosen't make sense when is came to the part of the coming out ball for Diana, Matthew's younger sister, and Isabella. In that time, especailly in England, girls had their coming out when they were like sixteen. Isabella and Diana were 21, and 22, before their coming out ball. So, that was one thing didn't make any sense.
So, as you can see there were problems with this book, to say the least. The idea wasn't great, not in the slightest. I was not expecting this book to go the way it did. The book was also quite boring. I felt like it just dragged and dragged and never got anywhere. The characters were formed well enough, but i felt like i never knew enough about the characters to really dertermine if they were consistent or not. The writing was actaully really good, surprsingly, but in every other category, the book was meh. I didn't like the book. At times it took everything in me not to cry, because it was so bad. And because i am not one not to not finish a book, no matter how bad it is, it was doubly difficult to keep turning the pages.
I had been excited to read this book, and was completly dispointed by it. I am sooooo glad i got the kindle version, becaus ei would have been horribly angry with myself, if i had spent $15 on this book, rathe rthen $4.
I don't recomend it. I have read better romances then this. In fact, i reccomend, books by Sarah. M. Eden. She is truly good at writing romances, and her stories never leave me yearning. They are so good. They don't lack content, or character develpment and always possess a solid plot. I never cry in books, EVER. So, when i read Sarah M. Eden's book, A Glimmer of Hope, and it made me cry? I knew it was a good book, which it was.
May 31, 2020
My opinon
I dont like to give low stars to books because just the fact that's someone has written a book is in itself an accomplishment worthy of recognition. But in my personal view and regarding the story line, the book lacked engagement, and skipped through most of it, it was boring and redundant, rushed at the end and there was not chemistry between the main characters. The book was not for me but if you like slow paced romances with senseless dialogues this is the book for you.
I dont like to give low stars to books because just the fact that's someone has written a book is in itself an accomplishment worthy of recognition. But in my personal view and regarding the story line, the book lacked engagement, and skipped through most of it, it was boring and redundant, rushed at the end and there was not chemistry between the main characters. The book was not for me but if you like slow paced romances with senseless dialogues this is the book for you.
April 21, 2020
A Life that is Twice Saved by a Friend
Romance, at any time, in any place and in any form, is always a choreographed dance of manners—and no more so than in a romance of the regency period, even one told by a modern-day storyteller. What makes a modern-day writer’s telling of the early 19thcentury styled romance enjoyable is the skill of the storyteller in not just weaving the tale of love from courtship to matrimony, but also the teller’s knowledge of and skill in crafting the nuances of that age. Audrey Ashwood has succeeded in creating a sensitive tale of the evolution of love successfully woven with best sensibilities of a regency romance.
Matthew Danvers, the 5th Duke of Devonshire, has been aware of his social status since childhood. Cognizant of his need to lead, to achieve, and to be better than others, the young duke-to-be set a high mark for himself—even at a risk to his own life. When at the age of seven, his young lady love, Georgiana’s puppy fled and fell into a swift moving stream, the young duke-to-be calculated that his effort to save the puppy, even at the cost of his own life, would win the lady’s affections. Luckily, both puppy and young champion were saved by the actions of youth of 16, John Thornton, the future Earl of Chatham.
The shared act of lifesaving bravery—one a dog and the other a boy—forged a bond between the two young lords that lasted over the years as both young men aged, married, and sadly, experienced dark moments with the deaths of their wives. But as often occurs with the passage of time, while the connection remained, it did not stay as current with each man’s life as in earlier days. So, Matthew Danvers was surprised and saddened to hear of his dear friend’s death. And, when a final letter from his friend was received, the duke was reminded of his initial meeting and indebtedness of his very life to his friend. So, the request that Matthew should care for his friend’s now orphaned daughter was met with grief, but with the affirmation of on-going friendship.
The duke, his mother and sister, Diana, awaited with joy and anticipation the arrival of the young girl for her father’s sake and for the pleasure that a young child’s presence would bring to a childless estate. But, imagine the surprise requiring both mental and emotional adjustments when the girl—rather young woman—arrived. The dear friend’s daughter was a beautiful blue-eyed, dark brown-haired, porcelain skinned, 21-year-old accomplished and polished adult, who upon the completion of the period of mourning, would be ready to be presented to society as a charmingly eligible, endowed woman, prime for the marriage market.
But, as with any regency romance, the path to wedded bliss is not without dark shadows and threats, and even confusion. The beautiful Isabella Thornton’s life and future happiness in society is at risk. Her elder half-brother is not as a noble a man as was the father. The young heir has strong animosity for his younger half-sister, has led a dissipated and shameful life and may have had a hand in speeding his father’s impending demise. And, as the stern duke slowly awakens to the needs and perfection of the “orphaned child” of his deceased friend, a neighborhood suitor enters the mix.
Audrey Ashwood weaves with skill all of the treads of a romantic novel of manners—strong characters, challenging relationships, and emerging and evolving affections. It is not the “romance” of today, but it is a delightfully written romance paying homage to romance of the past.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Romance, at any time, in any place and in any form, is always a choreographed dance of manners—and no more so than in a romance of the regency period, even one told by a modern-day storyteller. What makes a modern-day writer’s telling of the early 19thcentury styled romance enjoyable is the skill of the storyteller in not just weaving the tale of love from courtship to matrimony, but also the teller’s knowledge of and skill in crafting the nuances of that age. Audrey Ashwood has succeeded in creating a sensitive tale of the evolution of love successfully woven with best sensibilities of a regency romance.
Matthew Danvers, the 5th Duke of Devonshire, has been aware of his social status since childhood. Cognizant of his need to lead, to achieve, and to be better than others, the young duke-to-be set a high mark for himself—even at a risk to his own life. When at the age of seven, his young lady love, Georgiana’s puppy fled and fell into a swift moving stream, the young duke-to-be calculated that his effort to save the puppy, even at the cost of his own life, would win the lady’s affections. Luckily, both puppy and young champion were saved by the actions of youth of 16, John Thornton, the future Earl of Chatham.
The shared act of lifesaving bravery—one a dog and the other a boy—forged a bond between the two young lords that lasted over the years as both young men aged, married, and sadly, experienced dark moments with the deaths of their wives. But as often occurs with the passage of time, while the connection remained, it did not stay as current with each man’s life as in earlier days. So, Matthew Danvers was surprised and saddened to hear of his dear friend’s death. And, when a final letter from his friend was received, the duke was reminded of his initial meeting and indebtedness of his very life to his friend. So, the request that Matthew should care for his friend’s now orphaned daughter was met with grief, but with the affirmation of on-going friendship.
The duke, his mother and sister, Diana, awaited with joy and anticipation the arrival of the young girl for her father’s sake and for the pleasure that a young child’s presence would bring to a childless estate. But, imagine the surprise requiring both mental and emotional adjustments when the girl—rather young woman—arrived. The dear friend’s daughter was a beautiful blue-eyed, dark brown-haired, porcelain skinned, 21-year-old accomplished and polished adult, who upon the completion of the period of mourning, would be ready to be presented to society as a charmingly eligible, endowed woman, prime for the marriage market.
But, as with any regency romance, the path to wedded bliss is not without dark shadows and threats, and even confusion. The beautiful Isabella Thornton’s life and future happiness in society is at risk. Her elder half-brother is not as a noble a man as was the father. The young heir has strong animosity for his younger half-sister, has led a dissipated and shameful life and may have had a hand in speeding his father’s impending demise. And, as the stern duke slowly awakens to the needs and perfection of the “orphaned child” of his deceased friend, a neighborhood suitor enters the mix.
Audrey Ashwood weaves with skill all of the treads of a romantic novel of manners—strong characters, challenging relationships, and emerging and evolving affections. It is not the “romance” of today, but it is a delightfully written romance paying homage to romance of the past.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 15, 2020
This was a light, pleasant read which helped pass time during "stay safe, stay home" orders.
At age 7, Matthew jumps into a river to save a drowning puppy belonging to his friend Georgiana. He can't swim, so he almost drowns himself but is rescued by an older boy (age 16 according to the timeline at the back of the book) who lets him take the credit for the rescue. Matthew tells his rescuer that he owes him a debt which he will repay at any time, and the two become great friends
Flash forward 36 years...Matthew, now a Duke, receives a deathbed letter from the friend asking him to take in his daughter. Despite the man being 52 years old, Matthew leaps to the conclusion that the daughter is at most a toddler, if not an infant, and ropes his mother and sister into preparing the house to receive and care for the child. All are astonished when the daughter arrives and turns out to be 21.
Matthew and Isabella proceed to have very little to do with each other as he is busy with his many business responsibilities. Isabella spends her time with the Dowager Duchess and Diana, the 18-year-old sister, preparing for "The Season" when Diana will make her debut in the marriage market. Matthew is dragged into the preparations when he is asked to teach Isabella how to ride.
Several months go by and it's time for the ball. Both girls are a hit, with Isabella appearing to have caught the eye of a minor gentleman who is an Army colonel. Then news arrives that Isabella's half-brother has been arrested for allegedly killing their father. She decides she has brought scandal on the Duke's family and prepares to leave to make her own way. Suddenly the Duke appears in her room, declares that he loves her despite having spent very little time with her and showing no interest in her. His declaration of love is interrupted by the fact that Diana has run off with the Colonel and must be found before her reputation is ruined.
Fast forward again to summer and two weddings...
It was hard for me to understand how people of such different ages who spent virtually no time together could decide they were in love, but if you suspend disbelief about that, you will enjoy the book.
I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
At age 7, Matthew jumps into a river to save a drowning puppy belonging to his friend Georgiana. He can't swim, so he almost drowns himself but is rescued by an older boy (age 16 according to the timeline at the back of the book) who lets him take the credit for the rescue. Matthew tells his rescuer that he owes him a debt which he will repay at any time, and the two become great friends
Flash forward 36 years...Matthew, now a Duke, receives a deathbed letter from the friend asking him to take in his daughter. Despite the man being 52 years old, Matthew leaps to the conclusion that the daughter is at most a toddler, if not an infant, and ropes his mother and sister into preparing the house to receive and care for the child. All are astonished when the daughter arrives and turns out to be 21.
Matthew and Isabella proceed to have very little to do with each other as he is busy with his many business responsibilities. Isabella spends her time with the Dowager Duchess and Diana, the 18-year-old sister, preparing for "The Season" when Diana will make her debut in the marriage market. Matthew is dragged into the preparations when he is asked to teach Isabella how to ride.
Several months go by and it's time for the ball. Both girls are a hit, with Isabella appearing to have caught the eye of a minor gentleman who is an Army colonel. Then news arrives that Isabella's half-brother has been arrested for allegedly killing their father. She decides she has brought scandal on the Duke's family and prepares to leave to make her own way. Suddenly the Duke appears in her room, declares that he loves her despite having spent very little time with her and showing no interest in her. His declaration of love is interrupted by the fact that Diana has run off with the Colonel and must be found before her reputation is ruined.
Fast forward again to summer and two weddings...
It was hard for me to understand how people of such different ages who spent virtually no time together could decide they were in love, but if you suspend disbelief about that, you will enjoy the book.
I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
April 3, 2020
Not What the Guardian was Expecting
Sweet regency story. The Duke of Devonshire was a broken man and had never recovered from the death of his precious wife seven years ago. He's put walls around his heart and his work for his many estates has become his life. But his life was about to change when he received a letter from a childhood friend asking him to keep a promise that was made long ago. His friend John was on his deathbed and wanted the Duke to become a guardian for his only daughter Isabella.
Expecting to have the guardianship of a little child, the Duke's careful life and walls begin to crumble when a beautiful young lady shows up- his ward is not a child but a grown woman.
Isabella has lived a wonderful life traveling the world with her father and experiencing many things not normally for young ladies. When Isabella arrives at the luxurious Hardwick Manor she meets the Duke and finds him very cold and distant. Still hurting from her father's death she had hopes of being comforted by discussing him with her new guardian. Isabella is a strong independent young lady and she doesn't want to be a burden to her new guardian. As time goes on she feels drawn to this man who seems to avoid her.
I liked the story but would have enjoyed it more if there was a little more interaction between Isabella and the Duke. What finally happened seem to come about too fast.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Sweet regency story. The Duke of Devonshire was a broken man and had never recovered from the death of his precious wife seven years ago. He's put walls around his heart and his work for his many estates has become his life. But his life was about to change when he received a letter from a childhood friend asking him to keep a promise that was made long ago. His friend John was on his deathbed and wanted the Duke to become a guardian for his only daughter Isabella.
Expecting to have the guardianship of a little child, the Duke's careful life and walls begin to crumble when a beautiful young lady shows up- his ward is not a child but a grown woman.
Isabella has lived a wonderful life traveling the world with her father and experiencing many things not normally for young ladies. When Isabella arrives at the luxurious Hardwick Manor she meets the Duke and finds him very cold and distant. Still hurting from her father's death she had hopes of being comforted by discussing him with her new guardian. Isabella is a strong independent young lady and she doesn't want to be a burden to her new guardian. As time goes on she feels drawn to this man who seems to avoid her.
I liked the story but would have enjoyed it more if there was a little more interaction between Isabella and the Duke. What finally happened seem to come about too fast.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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April 8, 2020A small boy saves a dog, almost drowns and is saved by an older boy and they become best friends.
That is how Matthew Danvers meets his best friend John Thorton. The dog he saved belong to Georgianna who was also his childhood playmate. He ended up marrying her and was very happy until she died in a carriage accident.
Thirty-six years later, Matthew is now the Duke of Devonshire and John is the Earl of Chatham. He receives a letter from John saying by the time he gets the letter he will be gone but please take care of his beloved daughter. When she finally arrives she is not the child they have been expecting, but a twenty-six-year-old young woman.
Isabelle Thorton is beautiful, graceful and extremely well mannered. She also has a half brother who inherited but there are some problems and the inheritance has not been settled. She and Lady Diana, the Duke's sister are getting ready for their coming out.
It is a well put together story, the surroundings sound lovely and the characters are very interesting. The Duke is cold and because he lost his wife seven years ago he has no plans to marry. I feel like the characters could have been fleshed out a little more. I kept waiting for the love but it took a long time to arrive. I would recommend the book. I have to admit it kept me up late. It was enjoyable and entertaining.
I received this novel from the author and voluntarily reviewed it.
That is how Matthew Danvers meets his best friend John Thorton. The dog he saved belong to Georgianna who was also his childhood playmate. He ended up marrying her and was very happy until she died in a carriage accident.
Thirty-six years later, Matthew is now the Duke of Devonshire and John is the Earl of Chatham. He receives a letter from John saying by the time he gets the letter he will be gone but please take care of his beloved daughter. When she finally arrives she is not the child they have been expecting, but a twenty-six-year-old young woman.
Isabelle Thorton is beautiful, graceful and extremely well mannered. She also has a half brother who inherited but there are some problems and the inheritance has not been settled. She and Lady Diana, the Duke's sister are getting ready for their coming out.
It is a well put together story, the surroundings sound lovely and the characters are very interesting. The Duke is cold and because he lost his wife seven years ago he has no plans to marry. I feel like the characters could have been fleshed out a little more. I kept waiting for the love but it took a long time to arrive. I would recommend the book. I have to admit it kept me up late. It was enjoyable and entertaining.
I received this novel from the author and voluntarily reviewed it.
December 29, 2023
Lovely regency romance
Matthew, the Duke of Devonshire receives a letter from his childhood friend on his deathbed begging him to take care of his daughter. As they had not spoken in some time, Matthew assumes that the girl is a child but the beautiful lady that arrives turns his world upside down.
Isabella was a thoughtful, wise and interesting young lady. She understood the position that she’d been left in and had a plan every step of the way to make her life a tolerable one whilst making sure not to injure the family who showed her so much kindness.
The dowager Duchess and the Duke’s sister Diana were lovely characters and I enjoyed the scenes with them all in.
I enjoyed the romance but felt the Duke was a bit too reserved in his affection and his revelation of his feelings came a bit out of the blue. Other than one or two moments I didn’t see any particular interest from him. A bit more attentiveness or even a POV from the Duke might have made it feel less abrupt.
I found Diana’s behaviour at the end to be a bit out of character and her choice of groom was surprising. I’m not sure how that would have worked itself out and it was skimmed over in the book.
Overall I greatly enjoyed it, the surprising parts made it a bit more realistic than the other the formulaic romances.
Matthew, the Duke of Devonshire receives a letter from his childhood friend on his deathbed begging him to take care of his daughter. As they had not spoken in some time, Matthew assumes that the girl is a child but the beautiful lady that arrives turns his world upside down.
Isabella was a thoughtful, wise and interesting young lady. She understood the position that she’d been left in and had a plan every step of the way to make her life a tolerable one whilst making sure not to injure the family who showed her so much kindness.
The dowager Duchess and the Duke’s sister Diana were lovely characters and I enjoyed the scenes with them all in.
I enjoyed the romance but felt the Duke was a bit too reserved in his affection and his revelation of his feelings came a bit out of the blue. Other than one or two moments I didn’t see any particular interest from him. A bit more attentiveness or even a POV from the Duke might have made it feel less abrupt.
I found Diana’s behaviour at the end to be a bit out of character and her choice of groom was surprising. I’m not sure how that would have worked itself out and it was skimmed over in the book.
Overall I greatly enjoyed it, the surprising parts made it a bit more realistic than the other the formulaic romances.
April 1, 2020
Wow! What a wonderful story! An Orphan For The Duke will hold you spellbound and will keep you turning the pages until the very end. It's an unforgettable Regency romance with a strong plot, remarkable emotions, unforgettable characters, with historical descriptions and action sequences are wonderfully vivid which brings this read together perfectly. After Matthew, Duke of Devonshire receives a letter from his long time friend asking Matthew to watch over his daughter Isabella upon his death. Matthew believes Isabella to be a small child agrees to make her his ward. But Matthew is in for a surprise when he first meets Isabella! Matthew who has emotional scars over the loss of his wife 7 years ago has closed off his heart to love. Isabella in morning over the loss of her father finds herself drawn to Matthew but is kept at a distance by Matthew's cold personality. It's a heart felt story filled with drama, uncertainties, a villainous half-brother, trials and tribulations, turmoil and while the suspense builds and tensions escalate with the twist and turns abound that makes this one outstanding story! Audrey Ashwood has outdone herself with this novel that is a must read!
April 6, 2020
3.5 stars.
I liked the story line premise, I liked how Isabella started to change things for Matthew without having to have great contact with him, I enjoyed her relationships with his family and staff (the garden scene made me chuckle). I did expected more or a romance than what I got but this is a regency romance so I could live with that. What I found hard to live with was seeing the story go in one way and then ended up in a totally different place and the explanation for this just didn't work for me personally. Also I actually got to a place in the story where I felt like I had accidentally skipped a few pages to only go back and find out I hadn't, there really was this jump in the story that had me going 'What?!!' I really feel that the author needs to go back and read this story again to see what I mean, you can not get from point A to point C without passing B, I felt like I'd missed out on what could have been a good regency romance, regardless that I did like the ending, I missed the detail and depth or how we got to the ending.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I liked the story line premise, I liked how Isabella started to change things for Matthew without having to have great contact with him, I enjoyed her relationships with his family and staff (the garden scene made me chuckle). I did expected more or a romance than what I got but this is a regency romance so I could live with that. What I found hard to live with was seeing the story go in one way and then ended up in a totally different place and the explanation for this just didn't work for me personally. Also I actually got to a place in the story where I felt like I had accidentally skipped a few pages to only go back and find out I hadn't, there really was this jump in the story that had me going 'What?!!' I really feel that the author needs to go back and read this story again to see what I mean, you can not get from point A to point C without passing B, I felt like I'd missed out on what could have been a good regency romance, regardless that I did like the ending, I missed the detail and depth or how we got to the ending.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 25, 2020
A very captivating story from the first page to the last! I was holding my breath on the first page and the story just continued to get better with each new chapter. The storyline was not a typical one by any stretch and it was hard to know what would happen next. Hence, a one sitting read without interruptions. Great characters that you couldn't help cheering on, the lonely widowed Duke, the Earl who rescued the duke, the beautiful daughter, Isabella, who was just a little older than expected. Add in a couple that were extremely important to this sweet romance with it's HEA and you have a very enjoyable, easy to read historical story that leaves you smiling. I give this story a 4.5 because there were a couple of places that things were repeated from one page to the next, but not enough to delete or distract any real enjoyment from the book.
I did receive an ARC copy of this book, but I also bought a copy. This is my voluntary, honest and completely personal review. VICKI FROM WYOMING
I did receive an ARC copy of this book, but I also bought a copy. This is my voluntary, honest and completely personal review. VICKI FROM WYOMING
April 5, 2020
An Orphan for the Duke
Audrey Ashwood
Matthew grew up with his older friend who writes him years later and asks him to take care of his daughter because if he received this letter he would have been decided. Matthew is expecting a child and is a bit shocked when a woman named Isabella is the child he is expecting. She is wearing black for the loss of her father. Her step brother is under suspension of the death of his father. He doesn’t like Isabella.
Matthew is a widower who loved his wife dearly and vowed never to love again.
Will he? Of course he does. But will he tell her before it is to late...
great story I enjoyed reading this book.
My disclaimer...
I was given a copy of this book for my honest review.
Any book or novels I leave reviews on are not dependent on the book/novel review author’s opinion. No one influenced my voluntary review for any of the books or novels I read, they are my own opinions.
Audrey Ashwood
Matthew grew up with his older friend who writes him years later and asks him to take care of his daughter because if he received this letter he would have been decided. Matthew is expecting a child and is a bit shocked when a woman named Isabella is the child he is expecting. She is wearing black for the loss of her father. Her step brother is under suspension of the death of his father. He doesn’t like Isabella.
Matthew is a widower who loved his wife dearly and vowed never to love again.
Will he? Of course he does. But will he tell her before it is to late...
great story I enjoyed reading this book.
My disclaimer...
I was given a copy of this book for my honest review.
Any book or novels I leave reviews on are not dependent on the book/novel review author’s opinion. No one influenced my voluntary review for any of the books or novels I read, they are my own opinions.
May 18, 2020
This is an intriguing, sometimes amusing, and dramatic story. Matthew is sorry to hear that an old friend has died, and asked Matthew to become the guardian of his daughter. Matthew has no reservations about doing it and proceeds to make arrangements for the child to come live with him, his sister and his mother. Isabella is grateful to have someplace to go, a place where, hopefully, her half brother can’t find her. Matthew is shocked when Isabella isn't a child, and more so to find himself drawn to her very nature. They don't spend much time together, on top of Matthew's regard for her keeping him away, he hunts for her half brother. The times they are together they are both happy and at ease. When Isabella's half brother is found chaos erupts. And it affects the entire household. Sometimes the writing is a little repetitive, and there are too many unneeded details, but the story is good.
August 8, 2020
It was okay but I wasn't thrilled with it. Nothing really wrong with it but, I don't know, it wasn't really great. Took awhile to get into it, as it didn't really hold my interest til they went to London. Felt like a rather abrupt ending, especially concerning Baronet Colonel Gardnier's intentions. I guess I'd list this as acceptable.
BTW, for reference since I had to look it up... as far as the British peerage is concerned, after Royalty it goes in order of highest to lowest: Duke & Duchess, Marquess & Marchioness, Earl & Countess, Viscount & Viscountess, and Baron & Baroness. Below that is 'Baronet', which was introduced in England in the 14th century and was used by King James I in 1611 to raise funds for war. James sold the title, which lies below baron but above knight in the hierarchy. It is the only hereditary honour that is not a peerage. [Information from Historic-UK.com website]
BTW, for reference since I had to look it up... as far as the British peerage is concerned, after Royalty it goes in order of highest to lowest: Duke & Duchess, Marquess & Marchioness, Earl & Countess, Viscount & Viscountess, and Baron & Baroness. Below that is 'Baronet', which was introduced in England in the 14th century and was used by King James I in 1611 to raise funds for war. James sold the title, which lies below baron but above knight in the hierarchy. It is the only hereditary honour that is not a peerage. [Information from Historic-UK.com website]
April 7, 2020
Matthew Danvers, the Duke of Devonshire, a widower, who seemed to have lost hope for any future happiness when his wife died, finds himself asked to raise his friend’s daughter by his dying friend’s letter. Expecting to allow his mother and sister to take charge of the child, he is shocked to find HE will be responsible to oversee the coming out of a young lady, alongside his sister! What a delightful set up for a sweet story that gives hope to a grieving young woman as well as to a man who thought his life was over when his wife died.
A mystery to solve, an evil relation to fight off and a wise mother to give proper direction at times, makes this story just the thing to transport the reader to a better place for a time.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
A mystery to solve, an evil relation to fight off and a wise mother to give proper direction at times, makes this story just the thing to transport the reader to a better place for a time.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 5, 2020
I'm in doubt wether to give this book 3 or 4 stars. It is very well written. But you have the feeling there still has a lot to come, when you all of a sudden realize you're reading the last chapter. There are only a few scenes in which you see something happen between the duke and the orphan. In my opinion, not enough to warrant a romance.
But in that last chapter it finially becomes romantic. A bit late.
I also think the cover doesn't fit the story, nor the book blurb. In which it is obvious that there is no little girl part of the story. Even though there is a little girl on the cover.
I did like the characters, especially the duke's mother.
I received a book from Booksprout and chose to review it.
But in that last chapter it finially becomes romantic. A bit late.
I also think the cover doesn't fit the story, nor the book blurb. In which it is obvious that there is no little girl part of the story. Even though there is a little girl on the cover.
I did like the characters, especially the duke's mother.
I received a book from Booksprout and chose to review it.
April 7, 2020
Anxiously awaiting the arrival of the daughter of his best friend who had died, Matthew Danvers tries to imagine himself with a small child in his charge. He has readied his home and included his mother and sister in the preparation. When the child does not arrive when expected, he begins to worry. Late one night there is a knock on his door. She is here! He was really in for a surprise!
Finding out certain things about her half-brother leads things in a different direction. For protection, he hires more staff members to watch Isabella. She does not know what Matthew has found out but she now knows the truth. She must do something about it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Finding out certain things about her half-brother leads things in a different direction. For protection, he hires more staff members to watch Isabella. She does not know what Matthew has found out but she now knows the truth. She must do something about it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 8, 2020
This was a clean historical romance about a Duke, who agrees to honor his friend who once saved his life’s last wishes and take in his daughter after his death assuming that she is a child. Upon realizing Isabella is a young woman he leaves his mother and sister to help her navigate society and find a husband. After losing a wife he has loved since childhood a few years ago, Matthew has no desire to open his heart and marry again. He is closed off and abrupt with Isabella except for certain carefree moments. Isabella has had an unconventional upbringing traveling the world with her father, but that makes her much more interesting than a typical debutante. The threat of her evil greedy step brother hangs over her potential happiness.
April 23, 2020
This is my first time reading something by Ms. Ashwood, and I'm glad I gave it a try. It is a wonderfully sweet and charming story about healing and learning to love again. The Duke of Devonshire lost his wife years ago and wants nothing to do with love. But the arrival of his ward, Isabella, slowly changes that. It's a heart felt story filled with drama, and tension-building suspense with plenty of twists and turns that hold your interest and keep you turning the pages to find out what happens next. Wonderfully described scenes and well-defined characters with a compelling storyline is what makes this such an engaging read and one that I would definitely recommend.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 29, 2020
A truly spellbinding tale that you don’t want to miss. Isabella was not what Matthew, the Duke of Devonshire, expected when he received the letter from John, his good friend and the Earl of Chatham, asking him to take care of his little girl after his passing. Expecting a child, Matthew is shocked when a beautiful young lady arrives. A young lady that awakens from his grief. Isabella finds herself comparing all men to the Duke even though he hasn’t given her any reason to believe he might be interested in her. You must get this wonderful story to learn of their fate!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 7, 2020
This is a super sweet story, it flows very well and is an easy read, you do not want to stop reading until you have finished it! I love the characters and how they develop throughout the story, Audrey does an excellent job with them. I so enjoyed the shock of the Duke in discovering the orphan he was asked to take in is not a young child but a young woman. He was in need of eye openers though as he had been in a horrible slump! You will so enjoy the ways this great tale evolves! Read with confidence of an enjoyable story, with plenty going on to keep you turning pages to see what is going to happen next!!
April 8, 2020
Matthew Danvers, Duke of Devonshire, agrees to become the Ward for his dear friend’s daughter at the passing of his friend that leaves her orphaned. Expecting a small child, he is in shock when a 21 year old woman shows up at his door step. The Duke is cold and distant to her as he has never recovered from the loss of his wife many years prior. On a rare occasion, he lets his guard down and shares a conversation with her. Somehow, she still falls in love with him and it’s not until she plans to leave that he reveals any feeling for her, making it hard for me to see any kind of relationship there.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 8, 2020
This is the first regency novel that I have read and the first book by this author. I must say that it was an enjoyable read.
The characters were engaging and the author's easy-to-read style along with the pacing kept my interest. Isabelle, grieving the loss of her father finds herself welcomed into the Duke's home. The Duke is still grieving the loss of his wife and hasn't opened his heart up to a new romance.
There were a couple of notable twists along the way to keep it suspenseful. The ending wrapped everything up nicely with no cliff-hangers.
I received an ARC and voluntarily choose to review it.
The characters were engaging and the author's easy-to-read style along with the pacing kept my interest. Isabelle, grieving the loss of her father finds herself welcomed into the Duke's home. The Duke is still grieving the loss of his wife and hasn't opened his heart up to a new romance.
There were a couple of notable twists along the way to keep it suspenseful. The ending wrapped everything up nicely with no cliff-hangers.
I received an ARC and voluntarily choose to review it.
July 3, 2020
An Orphan for the Duke
A Wharton series, Book 3
Audrey Ashwood, author
This is my first read by this author and it certainly will not be my last. My plan is to go back and read books one and two. What truly trumped my interest was the long audiobook sample. I bought the book and before I knew it, I'd already read forty percent of it .
Matthew and Isabella's story was written with such grace and beauty and kept my interest alive. Although, they both had suffered such grief and loss, little did they both realize, their grief and sadness was about to change. And change in more than one way.....
It is my pleasure to recommend this beautifully written story with my esteemed pleasure.
A Wharton series, Book 3
Audrey Ashwood, author
This is my first read by this author and it certainly will not be my last. My plan is to go back and read books one and two. What truly trumped my interest was the long audiobook sample. I bought the book and before I knew it, I'd already read forty percent of it .
Matthew and Isabella's story was written with such grace and beauty and kept my interest alive. Although, they both had suffered such grief and loss, little did they both realize, their grief and sadness was about to change. And change in more than one way.....
It is my pleasure to recommend this beautifully written story with my esteemed pleasure.
April 3, 2020
This was a fun, short story. The Duke of Devonshire lost his wife seven years ago. He was heartbroken and vowed to never love again. He received a letter from a childhood friend asking for a final favor before his death. He asked the Duke to raise and see to his daughter, Isabella. The Duke wasn’t happy about this, but felt he owed it to the friend. The daughter was not a small child but a young woman. There are other stories going on in the background that I will not spoil for you. I was surprised after several turns late in the book.
I was given this ARC for an honest review.
I was given this ARC for an honest review.
April 5, 2020
The duke is in for a shock!
The story about a broken man who again almost looses what is most important in life. I found the book interesting and a little different the romance was not till the end of the book. Isabella was not the child Matthew expected so right from the start things are not what is expected. The whole book is liked that and I rather enjoyed its uniqueness. It is very well-written and engaging to read I am happy to recommend this book.
The story about a broken man who again almost looses what is most important in life. I found the book interesting and a little different the romance was not till the end of the book. Isabella was not the child Matthew expected so right from the start things are not what is expected. The whole book is liked that and I rather enjoyed its uniqueness. It is very well-written and engaging to read I am happy to recommend this book.
April 7, 2020
This heartbroken duke, his mother and his sister anxiously await an orphaned little girl of his best friend. But an adult woman of 21 shows up. His sister and mother are in a tizzy to get her prepared for a season and the duke only wants to marry her off. But does he really since she is the only one who has made him laugh in many years. But will his over long mourning keep them apart. A sweet, slow going romance.
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