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Regency Belles of Bath #3
The Duke's Runaway Bride
From shopkeeper...
To duke's wife
When Beatrix, Duchess of Howden, writes to her estranged husband offering a divorce, she's stunned when he arrives on her doorstep with a different proposition: a six-week marriage trial! Quinton Roxbury seems cold and inscrutable, but Beatrix gradually realizes his rough exterior hides a heavy burden. As their connection deepens, dare she trust him with her own scandalous past and risk the marriage she never knew she wanted?
From Harlequin Historical: Your romantic escape to the past.
Regency Belles of Bath
Book 1: An Unconventional Countess
Book 2: Unexpectedly Wed to the Officer
Book 3: The Duke's Runaway Bride
To duke's wife
When Beatrix, Duchess of Howden, writes to her estranged husband offering a divorce, she's stunned when he arrives on her doorstep with a different proposition: a six-week marriage trial! Quinton Roxbury seems cold and inscrutable, but Beatrix gradually realizes his rough exterior hides a heavy burden. As their connection deepens, dare she trust him with her own scandalous past and risk the marriage she never knew she wanted?
From Harlequin Historical: Your romantic escape to the past.
Regency Belles of Bath
Book 1: An Unconventional Countess
Book 2: Unexpectedly Wed to the Officer
Book 3: The Duke's Runaway Bride
288 pages, Mass Market Paperback
Published February 23, 2021
76 people are currently reading
96 people want to read
About the author
Jenni Fletcher
88 books178 followersJenni Fletcher writes heartwarming Historical Romance and fun Formula 1 romances. She has won 2 Romantic Novelists' Association Awards and teaches creative writing at Bishop Grosseteste University. Originally from Scotland, she now lives in the north of England with her family and one extremely hairy dog.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
March 31, 2021
I've given this a C+ at AAR, 3.5 stars.
Having really enjoyed the previous book in Jenni Fletcher’s Regency Belles of Bath series (Unexpectedly Wed to the Officer) I decided to continue on to book three – The Duke’s Runaway Bride – the story of a marriage-of-convenience that doesn’t quite go according to plan. It gets off to a bit of a rocky start, but was quite charming once it hit its stride – only to go off the rails in the final quarter with the sudden appearance of a contrived sub-plot in order to create some last-minute conflict that felt like so much padding.
In the previous book we met ‘Belinda Carr’ a young woman who seemed down on her luck and was taken in by the ladies of Belle’s Biscuit shop. Sensing there was more going on than met the eye, Henrietta and Nancy didn’t press Belinda for information, offering her friendship and a roof over her head. At the end of the book, however, she told Nancy the truth – that she’s really Beatrix Roxbury, the Duchess of Howden, and that she’d run away on her wedding day, intending to stay with her former governess in Bath – only to find she’d married and moved away. Beatrix explains the circumstances – her uncle sold her and her fortune to the duke in exchange for a title and consequence-by-association, and she was given no say in the matter. She met the duke only once before their wedding day and although he seemed decent enough, she didn’t want to marry him. Three months later, she feels guilty because he’s probably worried about her, so she writes to him (very much against Nancy’s advice) to tell him that she’s alive and well and living in Bath – and suggests they get an annulment or a divorce.
For Quinton – Quin – Roxbury, being Duke of Howden in the year since the death of his father has been a nightmare. The late duke nearly bankrupted them and Quin is working hard to turn things around while also overseeing all the projects for improvement he can now afford thanks to Beatrix’s money. His younger brother seems set on becoming a wastrel like their father, his mother complains incessantly, his younger siblings fight all the time… he’s beset on all sides and the only way he can deal with it is by locking away his own emotions and presenting a calm, unruffled face to the world.
He located his errant wife some time before he receives her letter, but thought it best to wait for her to come to him. Now that she has, he travels to Bath to see her and discuss her proposals, both of which are absolutely out of the question.
When she meets Quin again, Beatrix is completely thrown by his lack of anger and animosity towards her. Instead, he listens to her and shows a clear understanding of her situation; he apologises for not paying more attention to her before their wedding and assures her he had no idea she was unwilling, but he is also honest and upfront about having been in desperate need of her fortune to save his family estates. Not knowing how to react in the face of her husband’s calm demeanour, Beatrix confesses to a youthful indiscretion in the hope that it will encourage him to divorce her – but it doesn’t work. Quin calmly reiterates that he will not seek a divorce and makes a counter-proposal. Beatrix should come to live at Howden Hall for a period of three months – just so she can make sure she’s making the right decision (about staying in Bath) – and if, at the end of that time, she doesn’t want to remain, he will agree to a separation. Quin obviously hopes he will be able to talk her into staying, but Beatrix’s mind is made up. She wants her independence and her life at the Biscuit shop, among the people she’s come to regard as family – but she whittles Quin down to a period of six weeks and agrees to go, with no intention of allowing herself to be swayed.
I had trouble warming to Beatrix at first. There’s no question that she’s had a hard time of it; her uncle and aunt treated her like a commodity, she had no freedom, no friends – even her clothes were chosen for her. Yet here’s Quin – who would technically have been well within his rights to have dragged Beatrix away kicking and screaming – taking her opinion into account and giving her options, and she isn’t prepared to even meet him halfway. He understands her desire for independence and her misgivings about marriage – he even offers to return the rest of her dowry to her should they decide to separate. The only thing he will not agree to is a divorce – and he has good reasons for not wanting to mire his family in the scandal a divorce would inevitably entail. I found Beatrix’s intransigence to be a bit immature.
Once they arrive at Howden, however, and Beatrix sees what Quin is dealing with– especially from his mother who is a total bi-… er… gorgon – she starts to soften towards him and eventually to admit that while she wants to remain in Bath to bake biscuits, to be Quin’s duchess is to be a very lucky woman – not because of his material possessions, but because he’s a good, decent man who deserves to have the affection and support of those around him.
It will come as no surprise when I say that Beatrix and Quin do eventually fall for each other. They have good chemistry and are a well-matched pair; but the will-she/won’t she go back to Bath question wasn’t enough to make for a particularly interesting romance. The most vibrant parts of the story involved the brattish behaviour of Quin’s mother and sister – I came to look forward to watching them have tantrums because it livened things up a bit! Until Beatrix pulled a Mary Poppins and turned them into one, big happy family at one fell swoop.
But my biggest issue with the book as a whole is the fact that there just isn’t enough story to fill the page count. The ILYs have been exchanged by three-quarters of the way through, and Beatrix’s decision as to whether she’s going to stay or not is clear. So the author introduces a last-minute conflict just for the sake of it – which is then resolved so easily that it needn’t have been there at all.
As in Unexpectedly Wed to the Officer, the final chapter sets up the next story in the series, which will feature the fiery Nancy and her would-be-beau, who have been striking sparks off each other like mad whenever they’ve appeared in the other books. Here’s hoping those sparks will make for a stronger romance than The Duke’s Runaway Bride did.
Having really enjoyed the previous book in Jenni Fletcher’s Regency Belles of Bath series (Unexpectedly Wed to the Officer) I decided to continue on to book three – The Duke’s Runaway Bride – the story of a marriage-of-convenience that doesn’t quite go according to plan. It gets off to a bit of a rocky start, but was quite charming once it hit its stride – only to go off the rails in the final quarter with the sudden appearance of a contrived sub-plot in order to create some last-minute conflict that felt like so much padding.
In the previous book we met ‘Belinda Carr’ a young woman who seemed down on her luck and was taken in by the ladies of Belle’s Biscuit shop. Sensing there was more going on than met the eye, Henrietta and Nancy didn’t press Belinda for information, offering her friendship and a roof over her head. At the end of the book, however, she told Nancy the truth – that she’s really Beatrix Roxbury, the Duchess of Howden, and that she’d run away on her wedding day, intending to stay with her former governess in Bath – only to find she’d married and moved away. Beatrix explains the circumstances – her uncle sold her and her fortune to the duke in exchange for a title and consequence-by-association, and she was given no say in the matter. She met the duke only once before their wedding day and although he seemed decent enough, she didn’t want to marry him. Three months later, she feels guilty because he’s probably worried about her, so she writes to him (very much against Nancy’s advice) to tell him that she’s alive and well and living in Bath – and suggests they get an annulment or a divorce.
For Quinton – Quin – Roxbury, being Duke of Howden in the year since the death of his father has been a nightmare. The late duke nearly bankrupted them and Quin is working hard to turn things around while also overseeing all the projects for improvement he can now afford thanks to Beatrix’s money. His younger brother seems set on becoming a wastrel like their father, his mother complains incessantly, his younger siblings fight all the time… he’s beset on all sides and the only way he can deal with it is by locking away his own emotions and presenting a calm, unruffled face to the world.
He located his errant wife some time before he receives her letter, but thought it best to wait for her to come to him. Now that she has, he travels to Bath to see her and discuss her proposals, both of which are absolutely out of the question.
When she meets Quin again, Beatrix is completely thrown by his lack of anger and animosity towards her. Instead, he listens to her and shows a clear understanding of her situation; he apologises for not paying more attention to her before their wedding and assures her he had no idea she was unwilling, but he is also honest and upfront about having been in desperate need of her fortune to save his family estates. Not knowing how to react in the face of her husband’s calm demeanour, Beatrix confesses to a youthful indiscretion in the hope that it will encourage him to divorce her – but it doesn’t work. Quin calmly reiterates that he will not seek a divorce and makes a counter-proposal. Beatrix should come to live at Howden Hall for a period of three months – just so she can make sure she’s making the right decision (about staying in Bath) – and if, at the end of that time, she doesn’t want to remain, he will agree to a separation. Quin obviously hopes he will be able to talk her into staying, but Beatrix’s mind is made up. She wants her independence and her life at the Biscuit shop, among the people she’s come to regard as family – but she whittles Quin down to a period of six weeks and agrees to go, with no intention of allowing herself to be swayed.
I had trouble warming to Beatrix at first. There’s no question that she’s had a hard time of it; her uncle and aunt treated her like a commodity, she had no freedom, no friends – even her clothes were chosen for her. Yet here’s Quin – who would technically have been well within his rights to have dragged Beatrix away kicking and screaming – taking her opinion into account and giving her options, and she isn’t prepared to even meet him halfway. He understands her desire for independence and her misgivings about marriage – he even offers to return the rest of her dowry to her should they decide to separate. The only thing he will not agree to is a divorce – and he has good reasons for not wanting to mire his family in the scandal a divorce would inevitably entail. I found Beatrix’s intransigence to be a bit immature.
Once they arrive at Howden, however, and Beatrix sees what Quin is dealing with– especially from his mother who is a total bi-… er… gorgon – she starts to soften towards him and eventually to admit that while she wants to remain in Bath to bake biscuits, to be Quin’s duchess is to be a very lucky woman – not because of his material possessions, but because he’s a good, decent man who deserves to have the affection and support of those around him.
It will come as no surprise when I say that Beatrix and Quin do eventually fall for each other. They have good chemistry and are a well-matched pair; but the will-she/won’t she go back to Bath question wasn’t enough to make for a particularly interesting romance. The most vibrant parts of the story involved the brattish behaviour of Quin’s mother and sister – I came to look forward to watching them have tantrums because it livened things up a bit! Until Beatrix pulled a Mary Poppins and turned them into one, big happy family at one fell swoop.
But my biggest issue with the book as a whole is the fact that there just isn’t enough story to fill the page count. The ILYs have been exchanged by three-quarters of the way through, and Beatrix’s decision as to whether she’s going to stay or not is clear. So the author introduces a last-minute conflict just for the sake of it – which is then resolved so easily that it needn’t have been there at all.
As in Unexpectedly Wed to the Officer, the final chapter sets up the next story in the series, which will feature the fiery Nancy and her would-be-beau, who have been striking sparks off each other like mad whenever they’ve appeared in the other books. Here’s hoping those sparks will make for a stronger romance than The Duke’s Runaway Bride did.
September 29, 2021
I'm really glad I've chosen to read this book even if I didn't know the author and I didn't read the previous stories because The Duke's Runaway Bride was a lovely read that made me feeling good.
Beatrix ran away from her husband Quinton Roxbury Duke of Howden as soon as she said yes at the altar because she didn't want to be trapped in another hollow house. Quinton has married because he did need money to save his house from ruin, so when his wife ran away he kept the money and didn't say anything to avoid yet another scandal to his family. When he finds his wife's hiding place he decides to go meet her and to try to take her home, things don't go as planned because Beatrix wants a divorce but the two of them make a deal, if after six weeks Beatrix doesn't change her mind they'll part for ever. Will they have their happy ending? Or will Beatrix choose the freedom of her new life in Bath?
I fell in love with the main characters, Quinton and Beatrix have their reasons to act like they do but I absolutly adored how they give a real try to their relationship, without becoming instantly intimate. It was a pleasure to see them build a home together, filling it with love where everyone has the right to confront their emotions and be free.
I loved everything about this novel, it is well written and entertaining, Jenni Fletcher made me care about all the characters, in fact, I hope she has planned to write something more about Quinton's family.
I highly recommend this book you won't regret it.
Copy kindly provided by the Publisher/Author.
February 6, 2021
Series: Regency Belles of Bath #3
Publication Date: 2/18/21
Number of Pages: 288
Belle’s Biscuit Shop in bath definitely has a high employee turnover rate. It seems all of their bakers end up finding their HEA, marrying, and leaving Belle’s. First Anna, An Unconventional Countess, then Henrietta, Unexpectedly Wed to the Officer, and now, Belinda (Beatrix). This book is another excellently written, well-plotted book from this author. You’ll love the characters, especially Beatrix and Quinton because they overcome the scarring from their early life and manage to become excellent people.
At the ending of the last book, the ladies of Belles were rescuing a starving waif named Belinda Carr. The ladies at Belles, being the ladies at Belles, knew they had to rescue Belinda even though they also knew she was keeping secrets. There was no way she could be the plain Miss she claimed to be. They were so very, very correct!
Belinda Carr, in reality, is Beatrix Roxbury, Duchess of Howden. Well, she was actually only a duchess for about five minutes before she ran away, but still, she is the duchess. Beatrix lost her parents when she was young and spent twelve long, long, long years in the home of her uncle/guardian. Those years were a prison sentence. Her aunt and uncle didn’t want her and while they didn’t physically abuse her, they never showed her any kindness or love. They are a venal pair and are only interested in the yearly stipend they gain for Beatrix’s care. Of course, Beatrix never sees the benefit of any of that – she’s basically a prisoner – she doesn’t even get to choose her own clothing. Luckily, her father was a smart man (well maybe not too smart since he left his precious daughter in the care of his worthless brother) and he tied Beatrix’s very considerable fortune up where her uncle couldn’t get at it. Then – a few months earlier, her uncle announced that he’d arranged a wedding for her. Beatrix went through with the wedding because she didn’t feel she had a choice. She just knew she’d be going from her uncle’s prison to her husband’s. She’d only spoken to the man once or twice. Then, they wed, and for the first time ever she found herself alone for a few minutes. Well, impulse took over and she escaped.
Quinton Roxbury, Duke of Howden, hasn’t had a good family life. His father was a terrible man who would rather bankrupt the dukedom than allow his son to inherit a prosperous holding. His mother is a bitter, bitter woman who has resented her parents and her husband for forcing her into a marriage with a man she (and they) knew would be cruel. The taint of the parents – especially the father – has trickled down to Quinton’s siblings and they are all an unhappy lot. His father spent the last year of his life doing all he could to bankrupt the Duchy – and he did an excellent job of it. When Quinton inherited, he was already one breath away from debtor’s prison. His only option was to marry an heiress. When his man of business found an heiress for him, he married her – almost sight unseen. If she was willing, he was willing.
Quinton didn’t know Beatrix wasn’t exactly willing and was stunned when she disappeared. He hired people to track her down but didn’t approach her until she sent a letter asking for a divorce. WHAT! His family can’t afford yet another scandal. So, off he goes to change her mind. When she says no, they begin a negotiation and he ends up with a matter of weeks to convince her to stay married to him.
Quinton and Beatrix both have a lot to learn about each other and about life and people. I enjoyed watching them fight their demons all while coming to care for each other. Each of them was the balm for the other’s troubled soul and it was a delight to see them come to realize that.
I highly recommend this read and hope you will enjoy it as much as I did.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Publication Date: 2/18/21
Number of Pages: 288
Belle’s Biscuit Shop in bath definitely has a high employee turnover rate. It seems all of their bakers end up finding their HEA, marrying, and leaving Belle’s. First Anna, An Unconventional Countess, then Henrietta, Unexpectedly Wed to the Officer, and now, Belinda (Beatrix). This book is another excellently written, well-plotted book from this author. You’ll love the characters, especially Beatrix and Quinton because they overcome the scarring from their early life and manage to become excellent people.
At the ending of the last book, the ladies of Belles were rescuing a starving waif named Belinda Carr. The ladies at Belles, being the ladies at Belles, knew they had to rescue Belinda even though they also knew she was keeping secrets. There was no way she could be the plain Miss she claimed to be. They were so very, very correct!
Belinda Carr, in reality, is Beatrix Roxbury, Duchess of Howden. Well, she was actually only a duchess for about five minutes before she ran away, but still, she is the duchess. Beatrix lost her parents when she was young and spent twelve long, long, long years in the home of her uncle/guardian. Those years were a prison sentence. Her aunt and uncle didn’t want her and while they didn’t physically abuse her, they never showed her any kindness or love. They are a venal pair and are only interested in the yearly stipend they gain for Beatrix’s care. Of course, Beatrix never sees the benefit of any of that – she’s basically a prisoner – she doesn’t even get to choose her own clothing. Luckily, her father was a smart man (well maybe not too smart since he left his precious daughter in the care of his worthless brother) and he tied Beatrix’s very considerable fortune up where her uncle couldn’t get at it. Then – a few months earlier, her uncle announced that he’d arranged a wedding for her. Beatrix went through with the wedding because she didn’t feel she had a choice. She just knew she’d be going from her uncle’s prison to her husband’s. She’d only spoken to the man once or twice. Then, they wed, and for the first time ever she found herself alone for a few minutes. Well, impulse took over and she escaped.
Quinton Roxbury, Duke of Howden, hasn’t had a good family life. His father was a terrible man who would rather bankrupt the dukedom than allow his son to inherit a prosperous holding. His mother is a bitter, bitter woman who has resented her parents and her husband for forcing her into a marriage with a man she (and they) knew would be cruel. The taint of the parents – especially the father – has trickled down to Quinton’s siblings and they are all an unhappy lot. His father spent the last year of his life doing all he could to bankrupt the Duchy – and he did an excellent job of it. When Quinton inherited, he was already one breath away from debtor’s prison. His only option was to marry an heiress. When his man of business found an heiress for him, he married her – almost sight unseen. If she was willing, he was willing.
Quinton didn’t know Beatrix wasn’t exactly willing and was stunned when she disappeared. He hired people to track her down but didn’t approach her until she sent a letter asking for a divorce. WHAT! His family can’t afford yet another scandal. So, off he goes to change her mind. When she says no, they begin a negotiation and he ends up with a matter of weeks to convince her to stay married to him.
Quinton and Beatrix both have a lot to learn about each other and about life and people. I enjoyed watching them fight their demons all while coming to care for each other. Each of them was the balm for the other’s troubled soul and it was a delight to see them come to realize that.
I highly recommend this read and hope you will enjoy it as much as I did.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 18, 2021
4.5 stars, rounded up.
Months after being taken in and becoming one of the “Belles”, Belinda Carr finally faces her past and writes a letter, hoping to put Beatrix “Bea” Roxbury, the Duchess of Howden to rest and move on with her new life. She does know what to expect from her estranged husband – but having him turn up in Bath a couple of days later was not even on the list!
Quinton “Quin” Roxbury, the Duke of Howden is no stranger to scandal, but when Beatrix, the heiress he married and then who fled mere hours after the ceremony, finally contacts him and demands a divorce – that is a scandal he would rather not have his family endure. He goes to Bath to negotiate with her, hoping to avoid destroying what little standing his family still has. But the woman he finds in Bath is nothing like the quiet, mousey woman he married.
Bea is not willing to back down from her demands, especially now that she has found a home with Nancy and Henrietta – the first true home she has had since her parents died. She just wants Quin to divorce her and let her live her new life. But when he refuses, she agrees to return to Howden Hall for six weeks and give their marriage a chance as long as he agrees to grant her a divorce if things don’t work out.
At first, Bea holds herself back, refusing to get involved with his family or the running of the house, but a visit from Lady Jarrow, Anna’s grandmother-in-law, changes everything and soon Bea is not only taking her place as the duchess but is working miracles with Quin’s family as well, helping them heal from the aftermath of their father’s scandal. She also confronts Quin and makes him face his buried emotions, something that he hadn’t even realized he was doing until she points it out. They form a friendship and soon deeper feelings begin to blossom and it seems like HEA is a given – until something from Bea’s past rears its ugly head and she will have no choice but to give up her chance at happiness to protect the man she has come to love with her whole heart.
I thought this was a well-written, nicely-paced story with wonderful characters and an interesting storyline. The story has a bit of everything; a dysfunctional family, secrets, lies, warm love scenes, great secondary characters, blackmail, true love, and finally a hard-won HEA complete with an epilogue. I have to say, despite Bea being a tad selfish, some minor title errors and not to mention the casual attitude towards divorce – I think this might be my favorite book in the series so far and I can say without a doubt Quin is most definitely my favorite Jenni Fletcher hero ever! I am happy to recommend this title and even though it is the third book in the series, it can easily be read as a standalone title with no problems at all.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher. All opinions are my own *
Months after being taken in and becoming one of the “Belles”, Belinda Carr finally faces her past and writes a letter, hoping to put Beatrix “Bea” Roxbury, the Duchess of Howden to rest and move on with her new life. She does know what to expect from her estranged husband – but having him turn up in Bath a couple of days later was not even on the list!
Quinton “Quin” Roxbury, the Duke of Howden is no stranger to scandal, but when Beatrix, the heiress he married and then who fled mere hours after the ceremony, finally contacts him and demands a divorce – that is a scandal he would rather not have his family endure. He goes to Bath to negotiate with her, hoping to avoid destroying what little standing his family still has. But the woman he finds in Bath is nothing like the quiet, mousey woman he married.
Bea is not willing to back down from her demands, especially now that she has found a home with Nancy and Henrietta – the first true home she has had since her parents died. She just wants Quin to divorce her and let her live her new life. But when he refuses, she agrees to return to Howden Hall for six weeks and give their marriage a chance as long as he agrees to grant her a divorce if things don’t work out.
At first, Bea holds herself back, refusing to get involved with his family or the running of the house, but a visit from Lady Jarrow, Anna’s grandmother-in-law, changes everything and soon Bea is not only taking her place as the duchess but is working miracles with Quin’s family as well, helping them heal from the aftermath of their father’s scandal. She also confronts Quin and makes him face his buried emotions, something that he hadn’t even realized he was doing until she points it out. They form a friendship and soon deeper feelings begin to blossom and it seems like HEA is a given – until something from Bea’s past rears its ugly head and she will have no choice but to give up her chance at happiness to protect the man she has come to love with her whole heart.
I thought this was a well-written, nicely-paced story with wonderful characters and an interesting storyline. The story has a bit of everything; a dysfunctional family, secrets, lies, warm love scenes, great secondary characters, blackmail, true love, and finally a hard-won HEA complete with an epilogue. I have to say, despite Bea being a tad selfish, some minor title errors and not to mention the casual attitude towards divorce – I think this might be my favorite book in the series so far and I can say without a doubt Quin is most definitely my favorite Jenni Fletcher hero ever! I am happy to recommend this title and even though it is the third book in the series, it can easily be read as a standalone title with no problems at all.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher. All opinions are my own *
February 18, 2021
The Duke's Runaway Bride
Regency Belles of Bath Series #3
Jenni Fletcher
https://www.facebook.com/JenniFletche...
Release Date 03/01/2021 ebook, 02/23/2021 paperback
Publisher Harlequin Historical/ Mills&Boon Historical
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
From shopkeeper… To duke’s wife
When Beatrix, Duchess of Howden, writes to her estranged husband offering a divorce, she’s stunned when he arrives on her doorstep with a different proposition: a six-week marriage trial! Quinton Roxbury seems cold and inscrutable, but Beatrix gradually realizes his rough exterior hides a heavy burden. As their connection deepens, dare she trust him with her own scandalous past and risk the marriage she never knew she wanted?
𝗠𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
Will they be able to see past their own misconceptions...
After the previous book, I have been left wondering about Belinda, or Beatrix when her identity is revealed.
Outside she was on the run, I had no idea about what or whom.
Why this story was such a delight, outside her evil guardian, there is no true villain in this tale, only people hurting and clawing at because of it.
And while Beatrix comes from a greedy and uncaring household, she lands in a very dysfunctional family. Each copying with their pain their own way.
Which brings together all the components for a bomb. And while it did not explode with blood and shredded skin, they are in for a lot of tears.
Beatrix thought by leaving her unfeeling uncle’s house, she would leave the past behind. Yet her new spouse appeared so cold and insensible, she could not go through an other similar experience than her life under uncaring kin.
And while she had to find her own footing, away from those seeking only her wealth, she discovered who she could be.
Quinton has tried for the past months to right the wrongs done by his selfish and egoistical sire. But in main time he numbed his feelings, choosing rigidity over warmth, righteousness over disorder. Thus he completely failed his betrothed, presenting himself under the worse light possible.
And now they have a trial period, will they be willing to explore and probe what could be between them.
I loved Beatrix came out her own shell, she makes mistakes as much as Quinton but she does not shy away from much needed discussions, she accepts she is at fault and is blunt in exchange. Both once they settled their misgivings toward the other, enter their probation time with their eyes fully open.
This is no love at first sight tale, it is on the long run, while discovering whom the other is from the inside, they slowly see the other under a different light. Together they come to term with what they really desire and not what she should do.
5 stars
𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 onscreen mild lovemaking scenes.
I have been granted an advance copy by Rachel’s Random Ressources, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
Regency Belles of Bath Series #3
Jenni Fletcher
https://www.facebook.com/JenniFletche...
Release Date 03/01/2021 ebook, 02/23/2021 paperback
Publisher Harlequin Historical/ Mills&Boon Historical
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
From shopkeeper… To duke’s wife
When Beatrix, Duchess of Howden, writes to her estranged husband offering a divorce, she’s stunned when he arrives on her doorstep with a different proposition: a six-week marriage trial! Quinton Roxbury seems cold and inscrutable, but Beatrix gradually realizes his rough exterior hides a heavy burden. As their connection deepens, dare she trust him with her own scandalous past and risk the marriage she never knew she wanted?
𝗠𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
Will they be able to see past their own misconceptions...
After the previous book, I have been left wondering about Belinda, or Beatrix when her identity is revealed.
Outside she was on the run, I had no idea about what or whom.
Why this story was such a delight, outside her evil guardian, there is no true villain in this tale, only people hurting and clawing at because of it.
And while Beatrix comes from a greedy and uncaring household, she lands in a very dysfunctional family. Each copying with their pain their own way.
Which brings together all the components for a bomb. And while it did not explode with blood and shredded skin, they are in for a lot of tears.
Beatrix thought by leaving her unfeeling uncle’s house, she would leave the past behind. Yet her new spouse appeared so cold and insensible, she could not go through an other similar experience than her life under uncaring kin.
And while she had to find her own footing, away from those seeking only her wealth, she discovered who she could be.
Quinton has tried for the past months to right the wrongs done by his selfish and egoistical sire. But in main time he numbed his feelings, choosing rigidity over warmth, righteousness over disorder. Thus he completely failed his betrothed, presenting himself under the worse light possible.
And now they have a trial period, will they be willing to explore and probe what could be between them.
I loved Beatrix came out her own shell, she makes mistakes as much as Quinton but she does not shy away from much needed discussions, she accepts she is at fault and is blunt in exchange. Both once they settled their misgivings toward the other, enter their probation time with their eyes fully open.
This is no love at first sight tale, it is on the long run, while discovering whom the other is from the inside, they slowly see the other under a different light. Together they come to term with what they really desire and not what she should do.
5 stars
𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 onscreen mild lovemaking scenes.
I have been granted an advance copy by Rachel’s Random Ressources, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
April 18, 2021
Trigger Warnings
This book contains:
• Family violence in the form of control, both financially and mentally
Characters
Quinton & Beatrix
Quinton is the Duke of Howden and has been for about a year. Three to four months prior to the when the book starts, he marries Beatrix for her fortune since his family is dead broke thanks to his father wanting to leave them penniless. Not to mention all the other drama and emotional abuse he dolled out to Quinton’s whole family over the years.
Beatrix on the other hand has spent the past 12 years almost entirely confined to her room by her aunt and uncle after her parents pass on. The abuse she felt throughout that time shaped her actions and her view of the world from the moment she married Quinton.
Storyline
Beatrix ran away on her wedding day (after marrying Quinton) to create a life of freedom. Only, she needs to get rid of her husband so she can truly be free and let him be free to find a new wife. The big hitch in that plan is that Quinton isn’t playing ball and instead convinces her to trial being married to him for 6 weeks.
During that time, they get to know each other, learn why the other behaved the way they did and show the world what a strong marriage looks like. But they still need to figure out how to communicate what they’re feeling at the end of the 6 weeks if they’re going to make the right decisions.
Overall Thoughts
I’m really glad Jenni stayed true to the time period (she always does) and delved into how men treated their families in those times. I think to brush over it as if it never happened paints an inaccurate picture of how family violence has progress over the years and as if it’s a modern problem.
Yes, I wish it wasn’t something anyone had to worry about ever. But the truth is, in some way, shape or form, family violence has been perpetuated throughout history. To pretend like it hasn’t and like society as a whole has always objected to it (like I know some authors have done) doesn’t help anyone. So, thank you Jenni for always staying true to history and what actually happened!
Those kinds of details, even in other less obvious areas are what makes her books amazing to read. You know she’s put in the time and effort to research and be as true to the time as possible while still giving us a great romance and female empowering story.
This book contains:
• Family violence in the form of control, both financially and mentally
Characters
Quinton & Beatrix
Quinton is the Duke of Howden and has been for about a year. Three to four months prior to the when the book starts, he marries Beatrix for her fortune since his family is dead broke thanks to his father wanting to leave them penniless. Not to mention all the other drama and emotional abuse he dolled out to Quinton’s whole family over the years.
Beatrix on the other hand has spent the past 12 years almost entirely confined to her room by her aunt and uncle after her parents pass on. The abuse she felt throughout that time shaped her actions and her view of the world from the moment she married Quinton.
Storyline
Beatrix ran away on her wedding day (after marrying Quinton) to create a life of freedom. Only, she needs to get rid of her husband so she can truly be free and let him be free to find a new wife. The big hitch in that plan is that Quinton isn’t playing ball and instead convinces her to trial being married to him for 6 weeks.
During that time, they get to know each other, learn why the other behaved the way they did and show the world what a strong marriage looks like. But they still need to figure out how to communicate what they’re feeling at the end of the 6 weeks if they’re going to make the right decisions.
Overall Thoughts
I’m really glad Jenni stayed true to the time period (she always does) and delved into how men treated their families in those times. I think to brush over it as if it never happened paints an inaccurate picture of how family violence has progress over the years and as if it’s a modern problem.
Yes, I wish it wasn’t something anyone had to worry about ever. But the truth is, in some way, shape or form, family violence has been perpetuated throughout history. To pretend like it hasn’t and like society as a whole has always objected to it (like I know some authors have done) doesn’t help anyone. So, thank you Jenni for always staying true to history and what actually happened!
Those kinds of details, even in other less obvious areas are what makes her books amazing to read. You know she’s put in the time and effort to research and be as true to the time as possible while still giving us a great romance and female empowering story.
October 28, 2021
Let's Make a Deal
The Duke's Runaway Bride, by Jenni Fletcher, is a marriage of convenience story...sort of. Or, it could be a story of luv at the Great Romance Bake Off. You know it's funny, those careers you thought might be great when you are a young tadpole, don’t always stand up to the test of time. I always thought it would be neat to work in a bakery. All those cookies, pies, cakes, etc. Recently, I happened to be in a gourmet cookie shop purchasing wonderful cookies, when I noticed the smell. There was an overwhelming sweet, sugary, spicy smell; it permeated my sinuses. And, I was wearing my mask! Kudos to the people on the other side of the counter. You are all very brave to spend the whole day inhaling all that sweetness. When I staggered out into the fresh air, I crossed "bakery owner" off my list of dream careers. Which leads me to The Duke's Runaway Bride, and our heroine Beatrix Roxbury, the Duchess of Howden, aka Belinda Carr.
Belinda Carr likes to make biscuits. By the way, a biscuit may not be what you think it is. It all depends on your location. In the United States, biscuits are little round breads that are served warm, and then you slather butter all over them. In Great Britain, biscuits are what people from the U.S. would call cookies. I think. Watch The Great British Bake-Off for a better definition. Anyway, Belinda has a secret...she's hiding out at a bakery in Bath...a dream of hers. What-o! Hiding out you say! Why would she be doing that? She must be hiding from someone! What horrible person could she be hiding from? Well, she's hiding from her new husband Quin, the Duke of Howden. Boy, he must be a real creep! Nope, not really. In fact, he's a nice guy. But she doesn't know that he's nice, because she ran off shortly after the wedding. Evidently Quin needed money, Beatrix had money, her uncle was a smarmy guy who sort of sold her to Quin. I don't know what her Uncle gained, but I know Quin was able to save his estate. Too bad his bride is missing. But do not worry, because he knows where she's hiding, he's just waiting for the right moment to appear before her. The right moment turns out to be a letter from her saying, "Hey, I'm ok."
Quin appears at the bakery where Beatrix is hiding, and they make a deal. She wants a divorce, he doesn't, they compromise. She will give him six weeks to win her over, if at the end of the six weeks he hasn't, she can leave and go back to the bakery. Seeing as how she never intends to stay with him, the deal seemed a little lopsided to me. Besides that, he has a horrible family. He has a brother who is determined to either be an alcoholic, or die from a social disease. His younger brother and sister are constantly fighting, and his mother is the mother-from-hell. She is one nasty piece of work, there is nothing subtle about any of the vitriol she spews. But don't worry my little Petunia's, it isn't long before super-duper-problem-solver Beatrix has them all dancing with the butterflies. My eyeballs did some rolling through these moments. But I could live with the horrible family. It was the will-she-won't-she moments which I found irritating.
Quin and Beatrix formed a friendship fairly quickly. They communicated (sort of). They liked each other. Quin was a wonderful man, or at least most women would think he was. But not Beatrix! Noooo, she just wants to be free to beat eggs. Quin bent over backwards for this woman, and still she couldn't make up her mind. He had no clue whether she would stay with him or not. The “will-she-won't-she” thing went on way tooooo long. I suspect the reason why it went on for so long, was to create some kind of tension between the two. You see my little Petunia’s, this couple didn’t have any spark. Yes, I confess, I found Quin and Beatrix to be rather dull. I think it would have helped if Beatrix hadn't been such a selfish twit, but that's just me.
Sorry to say, this story was not my cup of tea.
The Duke's Runaway Bride, by Jenni Fletcher, is a marriage of convenience story...sort of. Or, it could be a story of luv at the Great Romance Bake Off. You know it's funny, those careers you thought might be great when you are a young tadpole, don’t always stand up to the test of time. I always thought it would be neat to work in a bakery. All those cookies, pies, cakes, etc. Recently, I happened to be in a gourmet cookie shop purchasing wonderful cookies, when I noticed the smell. There was an overwhelming sweet, sugary, spicy smell; it permeated my sinuses. And, I was wearing my mask! Kudos to the people on the other side of the counter. You are all very brave to spend the whole day inhaling all that sweetness. When I staggered out into the fresh air, I crossed "bakery owner" off my list of dream careers. Which leads me to The Duke's Runaway Bride, and our heroine Beatrix Roxbury, the Duchess of Howden, aka Belinda Carr.
Belinda Carr likes to make biscuits. By the way, a biscuit may not be what you think it is. It all depends on your location. In the United States, biscuits are little round breads that are served warm, and then you slather butter all over them. In Great Britain, biscuits are what people from the U.S. would call cookies. I think. Watch The Great British Bake-Off for a better definition. Anyway, Belinda has a secret...she's hiding out at a bakery in Bath...a dream of hers. What-o! Hiding out you say! Why would she be doing that? She must be hiding from someone! What horrible person could she be hiding from? Well, she's hiding from her new husband Quin, the Duke of Howden. Boy, he must be a real creep! Nope, not really. In fact, he's a nice guy. But she doesn't know that he's nice, because she ran off shortly after the wedding. Evidently Quin needed money, Beatrix had money, her uncle was a smarmy guy who sort of sold her to Quin. I don't know what her Uncle gained, but I know Quin was able to save his estate. Too bad his bride is missing. But do not worry, because he knows where she's hiding, he's just waiting for the right moment to appear before her. The right moment turns out to be a letter from her saying, "Hey, I'm ok."
Quin appears at the bakery where Beatrix is hiding, and they make a deal. She wants a divorce, he doesn't, they compromise. She will give him six weeks to win her over, if at the end of the six weeks he hasn't, she can leave and go back to the bakery. Seeing as how she never intends to stay with him, the deal seemed a little lopsided to me. Besides that, he has a horrible family. He has a brother who is determined to either be an alcoholic, or die from a social disease. His younger brother and sister are constantly fighting, and his mother is the mother-from-hell. She is one nasty piece of work, there is nothing subtle about any of the vitriol she spews. But don't worry my little Petunia's, it isn't long before super-duper-problem-solver Beatrix has them all dancing with the butterflies. My eyeballs did some rolling through these moments. But I could live with the horrible family. It was the will-she-won't-she moments which I found irritating.
Quin and Beatrix formed a friendship fairly quickly. They communicated (sort of). They liked each other. Quin was a wonderful man, or at least most women would think he was. But not Beatrix! Noooo, she just wants to be free to beat eggs. Quin bent over backwards for this woman, and still she couldn't make up her mind. He had no clue whether she would stay with him or not. The “will-she-won't-she” thing went on way tooooo long. I suspect the reason why it went on for so long, was to create some kind of tension between the two. You see my little Petunia’s, this couple didn’t have any spark. Yes, I confess, I found Quin and Beatrix to be rather dull. I think it would have helped if Beatrix hadn't been such a selfish twit, but that's just me.
Sorry to say, this story was not my cup of tea.
February 18, 2021
Marry in haste, repent at leisure.
The Duke’s Runaway Bride is a lovely second-chance romance in which the couple finally have a chance to get to know one another after a hasty marriage of convenience and the subsequent disappearance of the bride.
It is book #3 in the Regency Belles of Bath series but can be read as a standalone.
Quinton Roxbury, Twelfth Duke of Howden, inherited his father’s estates in shambles.
To make matters worse, his family was also falling apart due to a scandal caused by his father right before his passing.
When Quinton married the quiet Beatrix, he thought her money would solve all his troubles and that being a duchess would be enough to make their marriage of convenience worth for her.
This proved not to be the case when Beatrix ran away from their home on their wedding day.
With his family already drowning in scandal, he could not afford for word of his wife’s disappearance to reach the ton.
When he received a letter from her asking for a divorce, he decided to do all in his power to make their marriage work.
Beatrix was a lovely heroine. After her parent’s death, she suffered being poorly treated by her aunt and uncle and was finally happy and independent working in a baking shop in Bath.
I enjoyed how respectful of her and her wishes Quinton was all along. His cold exterior was nothing but an attempt to navigate through all his troubles without breaking apart.
The relationship is sweet and romantic. I love how she fell in love with his whole family, despite their many flaws.
The side characters were engaging, especially Quinton’s mom. I wonder if she will eventually get a story of her own. I would love to read it!
The Duke’s Runaway Bride is my first book by this author, but it won’t be my last!
Disclosure: I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
*For more reviews, book art, and book-related articles, please visit https://lureviewsbooks.com *
The Duke’s Runaway Bride is a lovely second-chance romance in which the couple finally have a chance to get to know one another after a hasty marriage of convenience and the subsequent disappearance of the bride.
It is book #3 in the Regency Belles of Bath series but can be read as a standalone.
Quinton Roxbury, Twelfth Duke of Howden, inherited his father’s estates in shambles.
To make matters worse, his family was also falling apart due to a scandal caused by his father right before his passing.
When Quinton married the quiet Beatrix, he thought her money would solve all his troubles and that being a duchess would be enough to make their marriage of convenience worth for her.
This proved not to be the case when Beatrix ran away from their home on their wedding day.
With his family already drowning in scandal, he could not afford for word of his wife’s disappearance to reach the ton.
When he received a letter from her asking for a divorce, he decided to do all in his power to make their marriage work.
Beatrix was a lovely heroine. After her parent’s death, she suffered being poorly treated by her aunt and uncle and was finally happy and independent working in a baking shop in Bath.
I enjoyed how respectful of her and her wishes Quinton was all along. His cold exterior was nothing but an attempt to navigate through all his troubles without breaking apart.
The relationship is sweet and romantic. I love how she fell in love with his whole family, despite their many flaws.
The side characters were engaging, especially Quinton’s mom. I wonder if she will eventually get a story of her own. I would love to read it!
The Duke’s Runaway Bride is my first book by this author, but it won’t be my last!
Disclosure: I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
*For more reviews, book art, and book-related articles, please visit https://lureviewsbooks.com *
Read
March 10, 2021 A Duke and Duchess Have Difficulty with His Family. Sound Familiar?
Once upon a time, Quentin Roxbury, an Impoverished young duke, married a wealthy cit, Beatrix, without spending any time with her except to propose. Beatrix, who was coerced into the marriage by her unfeeling uncle/guardian, found herself alone for a few minutes after the marriage ceremony, realized her uncle had temporarily left her unguarded, and she ran away.
I am assuming there is a previous book in this series where all this occurs, but this volume begins with Beatrix hiding out in Bath, working in a bakery run by women, and hiding from her husband. He visits, convinces her to try being a duchess for six weeks, and the story is off an running.
The writing is good, the characters are interesting, and the hero is so very serious and honorable that you have to like him.
The story is one often used in HRs. An unhappy, dysfunctional family sneers at a woman who comes from the "lower orders" and has worked for a living. Her kindness and good heart win them all over and they become a healed, closely knit family.
I rather like reading the recurring plot, but I have trouble believing it. A desperately miserable, seriously flawed group of people, with class distinctions drilled into them for generations, is hardly likely to turn sweet and welcoming easily.
Then Sunday evening, I watched bits and pieces of Oprah's interview with Duchess Meghan and Duke Harry. "That's it!" I thought. "That's much more likely the way such a scenario would work out."
Once upon a time, Quentin Roxbury, an Impoverished young duke, married a wealthy cit, Beatrix, without spending any time with her except to propose. Beatrix, who was coerced into the marriage by her unfeeling uncle/guardian, found herself alone for a few minutes after the marriage ceremony, realized her uncle had temporarily left her unguarded, and she ran away.
I am assuming there is a previous book in this series where all this occurs, but this volume begins with Beatrix hiding out in Bath, working in a bakery run by women, and hiding from her husband. He visits, convinces her to try being a duchess for six weeks, and the story is off an running.
The writing is good, the characters are interesting, and the hero is so very serious and honorable that you have to like him.
The story is one often used in HRs. An unhappy, dysfunctional family sneers at a woman who comes from the "lower orders" and has worked for a living. Her kindness and good heart win them all over and they become a healed, closely knit family.
I rather like reading the recurring plot, but I have trouble believing it. A desperately miserable, seriously flawed group of people, with class distinctions drilled into them for generations, is hardly likely to turn sweet and welcoming easily.
Then Sunday evening, I watched bits and pieces of Oprah's interview with Duchess Meghan and Duke Harry. "That's it!" I thought. "That's much more likely the way such a scenario would work out."
May 23, 2021
The Duke’s Runaway Bride is the third book in the Regency Belles of Bath series and unlike the previous two I felt that this is a true stand-alone there are tangible connections with the first two books but not in a way that would have you thinking you’ve missed out on something. I have thoroughly enjoyed this series, it’s charming – there is no other word to describe ‘Belles of Bath’ it’s heart-warming and delicious, stepping into belles is like a big comforting hug – with added tea and biscuits.
This has a very different feel to the stereotypical Regency romance, I liked that instead of falling head over heels in love with the Duke as soon as meeting him, Beatrice doesn’t particularly like her new husband. She thinks him to be cold and unfeeling something she didn’t want to be stuck with for the rest of her life. But, once her back story becomes apparent you understand her revulsion to this prickly staid gent. Yes, she acted rather callously after the wedding (in my humble opinion) but again all is explained as we rather quickly discover the reasons behind her decisions. She married him to gain her much sought after freedom from her villainous relatives. So, she does the only thing she can do to be free; get hitched! But, finding out her new husband isn’t exactly what she wanted, she soon throws away her bouquet, disbands with the uncomfortable wedding shoes and flees her new husband before he can say ‘right let’s seal the deal and jump into in bed‘.
I like that you have two different tropes running through the book, first, you have the mention of a marriage of convenience, his estate needs funds and she has money, but there is something very different about it than what we have seen before in this trope. I think because the actual wedding part happened away from the pages, and the story starts at the pinnacle moment in the characters lives, instead of being bored with the rigmarole of the usual rules of doing this, do that – to be honest, all those regency rules can be a bit grinding at times, The Duke’s Runaway Bride was a breath of fresh air away from all the regulated regency protocol. Then you have the second chance romance which is the prominent trope running through the book, I don’t know if there was supposed to be a double troped story, I picked up on two – or maybe it’s just me!
Quinton has a lot of those ducal shoulders of his, not only is his wife who he barely knows wants a divorce so she can carry on baking in Bath but his estate is in difficulty and the family is living in the shadow of scandal. He needs his Duchess back, beneath that cold and unruffled exterior lives the heart of a man who is trying with all his might to keep his family together and to keep himself from falling apart, it is that vulnerable side which warmed my heart to him. The only reason he travels to Bath is for one reason and that is to retrieve his wife. I think he is delusional to think that being a Duchess will be enough for Beatrix, he doesn’t know women very well, does he? Some may have been happy in that life, but our Beatrix has found her freedom and she isn’t prepared to let it go without a fight. I like that despite contemplating dragging her back by her hair kicking and screaming he decides to respect her and give her another option; which is they do a home trial of their marriage, six weeks to test the waters, to get to know each other and see if they are a good fit. Very magnanimous of you Quinton!
Beatrix only married Quinton because; A. She had no choice as her uncle had already decreed she has to, and; B. She wanted to be free of her family and their oppressive nature. She had thought that once she married she would have everything she wanted in life – or what she thought she wanted – something who respected her, who was nice to her but her groom soon turned out to be not too different from her own family; controlling and cold, she has only met him the once before the ‘I do’s and that was about as much as she could take so she fled and started a new life, reinvented herself as Belinda and made a new life for herself in Bath working as a baker in Belle’s.
Once Beatrix has finally settled into her whole new life, she has found her confidence, her independence, she sends a note to her husband and asks for a divorce, she is hoping he will comply and everyone will be able to move on. How, how wrong she is as Quinton has other ideas and when he turns up suddenly and asks her to give their marriage a go and revealing that he has to know where she is for a long time, she is not only shocked by that alone but angry and fearful and determined to get her way as she has spent too much of her life being governed by controlling men she doesn’t want that again not now she has tasted freedom and especially not with the cold Duke.
I love that when Quinton turns up to take Beatrix back, he is stunned to find her completely different to the woman that he married. He thought she would be the same little mouse who really wouldn’t say boo to a goose, but instead, he is faced with a fiery, independent and determined woman who has found her voice and rather amusingly refuses to give it up. I think our Quinton is a little out of his depth with this new Beatrix. I like the woman she has become, she is in no other words but herself and more importantly she has found friends who love her for the woman she is, and not the heiress or the Duchess which is something she needed to have in her life to be able to take on the next challenge of getting to know her husband.
The chapters of them on their road trip of ‘getting to know each other‘ are the best, their journey to happiness isn’t straight there are forks in the road and misdirection but the more that they have to face as people the closer they become as a couple. They are such a sweet couple, I love how we get to know them as people at the same time they get to know each other, it’s a marvellous piece of writing.
The Duke’s Runaway Bride is an elegant, charming and lovely story of finding true love. With an engaging and unique plot, likeable, memorable and multi-layered characters, beautiful scenery and rich historical detail this book is just charming.
Another sparkling romance from one of the finest romantic novelist’s around!
This has a very different feel to the stereotypical Regency romance, I liked that instead of falling head over heels in love with the Duke as soon as meeting him, Beatrice doesn’t particularly like her new husband. She thinks him to be cold and unfeeling something she didn’t want to be stuck with for the rest of her life. But, once her back story becomes apparent you understand her revulsion to this prickly staid gent. Yes, she acted rather callously after the wedding (in my humble opinion) but again all is explained as we rather quickly discover the reasons behind her decisions. She married him to gain her much sought after freedom from her villainous relatives. So, she does the only thing she can do to be free; get hitched! But, finding out her new husband isn’t exactly what she wanted, she soon throws away her bouquet, disbands with the uncomfortable wedding shoes and flees her new husband before he can say ‘right let’s seal the deal and jump into in bed‘.
I like that you have two different tropes running through the book, first, you have the mention of a marriage of convenience, his estate needs funds and she has money, but there is something very different about it than what we have seen before in this trope. I think because the actual wedding part happened away from the pages, and the story starts at the pinnacle moment in the characters lives, instead of being bored with the rigmarole of the usual rules of doing this, do that – to be honest, all those regency rules can be a bit grinding at times, The Duke’s Runaway Bride was a breath of fresh air away from all the regulated regency protocol. Then you have the second chance romance which is the prominent trope running through the book, I don’t know if there was supposed to be a double troped story, I picked up on two – or maybe it’s just me!
Quinton has a lot of those ducal shoulders of his, not only is his wife who he barely knows wants a divorce so she can carry on baking in Bath but his estate is in difficulty and the family is living in the shadow of scandal. He needs his Duchess back, beneath that cold and unruffled exterior lives the heart of a man who is trying with all his might to keep his family together and to keep himself from falling apart, it is that vulnerable side which warmed my heart to him. The only reason he travels to Bath is for one reason and that is to retrieve his wife. I think he is delusional to think that being a Duchess will be enough for Beatrix, he doesn’t know women very well, does he? Some may have been happy in that life, but our Beatrix has found her freedom and she isn’t prepared to let it go without a fight. I like that despite contemplating dragging her back by her hair kicking and screaming he decides to respect her and give her another option; which is they do a home trial of their marriage, six weeks to test the waters, to get to know each other and see if they are a good fit. Very magnanimous of you Quinton!
Beatrix only married Quinton because; A. She had no choice as her uncle had already decreed she has to, and; B. She wanted to be free of her family and their oppressive nature. She had thought that once she married she would have everything she wanted in life – or what she thought she wanted – something who respected her, who was nice to her but her groom soon turned out to be not too different from her own family; controlling and cold, she has only met him the once before the ‘I do’s and that was about as much as she could take so she fled and started a new life, reinvented herself as Belinda and made a new life for herself in Bath working as a baker in Belle’s.
Once Beatrix has finally settled into her whole new life, she has found her confidence, her independence, she sends a note to her husband and asks for a divorce, she is hoping he will comply and everyone will be able to move on. How, how wrong she is as Quinton has other ideas and when he turns up suddenly and asks her to give their marriage a go and revealing that he has to know where she is for a long time, she is not only shocked by that alone but angry and fearful and determined to get her way as she has spent too much of her life being governed by controlling men she doesn’t want that again not now she has tasted freedom and especially not with the cold Duke.
I love that when Quinton turns up to take Beatrix back, he is stunned to find her completely different to the woman that he married. He thought she would be the same little mouse who really wouldn’t say boo to a goose, but instead, he is faced with a fiery, independent and determined woman who has found her voice and rather amusingly refuses to give it up. I think our Quinton is a little out of his depth with this new Beatrix. I like the woman she has become, she is in no other words but herself and more importantly she has found friends who love her for the woman she is, and not the heiress or the Duchess which is something she needed to have in her life to be able to take on the next challenge of getting to know her husband.
The chapters of them on their road trip of ‘getting to know each other‘ are the best, their journey to happiness isn’t straight there are forks in the road and misdirection but the more that they have to face as people the closer they become as a couple. They are such a sweet couple, I love how we get to know them as people at the same time they get to know each other, it’s a marvellous piece of writing.
The Duke’s Runaway Bride is an elegant, charming and lovely story of finding true love. With an engaging and unique plot, likeable, memorable and multi-layered characters, beautiful scenery and rich historical detail this book is just charming.
Another sparkling romance from one of the finest romantic novelist’s around!
March 5, 2021
While a part of the Regency Belles of Bath series focussing on the ladies who run Belles Biscuit Shop, this one quickly leaves the familiar setting of Belles, because our newest heroine is a runaway bride... and her husband has come looking for her.
Bullied into the marriage by unscrupulous relatives, the first opportunity Beatrix got to run came after the ceremony. Feeling guilty, she contacts her husband to ask he have the marriage annulled… only for him to reveal he knew where she was the whole time, an annulment isn't an option as society thinks they've been honeymooning together for months, and he'd like her to give marriage a try before she decides against it and him entirely.
I really, really liked Quinton, our hero. Yes, he did wrong by Beatrix in not getting to know her before the wedding, but he had good reasons to be distracted, with a difficult mother and four siblings, all hard to handle in their own ways, plus a crumbling estate and a reputation ruined thanks to a horrible father. Quinton was obviously a genuinely decent man struggling under an impossible burden, and valiantly suppressing his pain about it, to boot. It was quite easy to see how Beatrix would fall for him, but I liked the way she wasn't afraid to challenge him, pushing him to understand that repressing his emotions wasn't good for him.
The siblings are a chamingly motley crew, and I loved the way Beatrix found ways to relate to them all as individuals without asking them to be anything other than who they are, especially Helen, the shy youngest sister. The whole Roxbury family was delightful enough I'd be happy to see them get a spin off series and each find their own happy endings!
While I've been loving the 'normal people' vibe of this series so far, Jenni Fletcher has taken a bit of a diversion with a duke hero in this one, and I wasn't sure I would like it as much. I'm very happy to be completely wrong; I think this is actually my favourite thus far. Five stars for a fabulous read!
Disclaimer: I received a review copy of this title via the author.
Bullied into the marriage by unscrupulous relatives, the first opportunity Beatrix got to run came after the ceremony. Feeling guilty, she contacts her husband to ask he have the marriage annulled… only for him to reveal he knew where she was the whole time, an annulment isn't an option as society thinks they've been honeymooning together for months, and he'd like her to give marriage a try before she decides against it and him entirely.
I really, really liked Quinton, our hero. Yes, he did wrong by Beatrix in not getting to know her before the wedding, but he had good reasons to be distracted, with a difficult mother and four siblings, all hard to handle in their own ways, plus a crumbling estate and a reputation ruined thanks to a horrible father. Quinton was obviously a genuinely decent man struggling under an impossible burden, and valiantly suppressing his pain about it, to boot. It was quite easy to see how Beatrix would fall for him, but I liked the way she wasn't afraid to challenge him, pushing him to understand that repressing his emotions wasn't good for him.
The siblings are a chamingly motley crew, and I loved the way Beatrix found ways to relate to them all as individuals without asking them to be anything other than who they are, especially Helen, the shy youngest sister. The whole Roxbury family was delightful enough I'd be happy to see them get a spin off series and each find their own happy endings!
While I've been loving the 'normal people' vibe of this series so far, Jenni Fletcher has taken a bit of a diversion with a duke hero in this one, and I wasn't sure I would like it as much. I'm very happy to be completely wrong; I think this is actually my favourite thus far. Five stars for a fabulous read!
Disclaimer: I received a review copy of this title via the author.
February 23, 2021
Seriously, when I found out it was the THIRD in the Regency Belles of Bath series, all I could think was....WHY haven't I heard of it before, WHERE was someone to recommend it to me, and GIVE ME MORE!
Bea was a doll...though she was treated as anything but! She took her chance when she saw it (SO don't blame her!), made her way in the world (you go girl!), and yet wasn't so headstrong that she couldn't allow herself the chance to follow her heart when...or rather IF, the moment presented. Quin was a rather gallant gentleman, despite his family history, and I think his handling of his new bride's departure was MORE than elegant. Still...it took a hard conversation he didn't want to have to shake him out of his total emotional self control...and to what end? Let's just say it's VERY hard to put a stopper back in a bottle, no matter what it may have contained.
In the end, I loved the premise, adored the story, cherished the characters (well, most of them...that Dowager though...ugh!)...and if pressed for a favorite, I wouldn't hesitate to say...HELEN! I know, you're wondering WHO in the world is that?! Well, she's Quin's darling little sister, and the moment she makes herself known, you'll be hard pressed to forget her.
*ecopy received for review; opinions are my own
Bea was a doll...though she was treated as anything but! She took her chance when she saw it (SO don't blame her!), made her way in the world (you go girl!), and yet wasn't so headstrong that she couldn't allow herself the chance to follow her heart when...or rather IF, the moment presented. Quin was a rather gallant gentleman, despite his family history, and I think his handling of his new bride's departure was MORE than elegant. Still...it took a hard conversation he didn't want to have to shake him out of his total emotional self control...and to what end? Let's just say it's VERY hard to put a stopper back in a bottle, no matter what it may have contained.
In the end, I loved the premise, adored the story, cherished the characters (well, most of them...that Dowager though...ugh!)...and if pressed for a favorite, I wouldn't hesitate to say...HELEN! I know, you're wondering WHO in the world is that?! Well, she's Quin's darling little sister, and the moment she makes herself known, you'll be hard pressed to forget her.
*ecopy received for review; opinions are my own
September 18, 2022
good characters and a predictable romance
Beatrice was an heiress whose uncle arranged a marriage with Quinton, a Duke in need of funds. She had no say in the arrangement and has met Quinton only once before the wedding ceremony. Beatrice takes the opportunity to run away right after the ceremony and ends up very contently in Bath with a job and new friends.
Both characters are likable, admirable and honest with each other. In response to Beatrice asking for a divorce, Quinton proposes a 6 week trial marriage before agreeing to her request. Quinton’s family and Beatrice ‘s friends were interesting secondary characters. The story moved along but was similar to the first book in the series (haven’t read the 2nd book). And as in the first book, there was one skippable sex scene.
Beatrice was an heiress whose uncle arranged a marriage with Quinton, a Duke in need of funds. She had no say in the arrangement and has met Quinton only once before the wedding ceremony. Beatrice takes the opportunity to run away right after the ceremony and ends up very contently in Bath with a job and new friends.
Both characters are likable, admirable and honest with each other. In response to Beatrice asking for a divorce, Quinton proposes a 6 week trial marriage before agreeing to her request. Quinton’s family and Beatrice ‘s friends were interesting secondary characters. The story moved along but was similar to the first book in the series (haven’t read the 2nd book). And as in the first book, there was one skippable sex scene.
December 3, 2021
⭐4 Beatrice & Quinton stars⭐
I read this for my A to Z Hero Challenge. It was a and enjoyable and nice read.
I read this for my A to Z Hero Challenge. It was a and enjoyable and nice read.
April 28, 2022
This one started out so promisingly and went along great until like the last 2 chapters, when the formerly likeable heroine suddenly suffered an attack of "extremely bad and stupid choices" disease. The book had a nice slow burn thing going on, there was /yearning/ they were communicating....and then suddenly a quick and hastily fabricated conflict that could have been solved with one quick conversation derails everything, and results in an equally quick and shoddily constructed resolution. It really smacks of "oh no I only have x amount of pages left and haven't had a secondary conflict, better toss some random drama in there." Very strong start, disappointing finish.
May 6, 2021
Good book. Beatrix, aka Belinda, made her first appearance in the previous book, Unexpectedly Wed to the Officer, as a young woman in need of a job and a place to live. The ladies of Belles Biscuit Shop take her in and train her as a baker. Her new friends sense that she has secrets, but no one presses her for answers. At the end of the book, she reveals that she's the Duchess of Howden, that she ran away immediately following the wedding and wrote to her husband requesting a divorce. They are surprised, of course, but ready to stand by and support their friend.
As this book opens, Beatrix waits for a response from her husband. She does not expect him to show up in person, but there he is. Quin doesn't want a divorce at all, but he listens to Beatrix's concerns and proposes a three-month trial marriage. Beatrix doesn't want that at all but whittles him down to six weeks for him to convince her to give their marriage a chance.
I liked this meeting between Quin and Beatrix. She makes it clear that she has nothing against him personally or the fact that he married her for her money. After twelve years as a virtual prisoner of her uncle and aunt, she prizes the freedom and independence she achieved and doesn't want to give it up. She calls Quin out on the fact that she saw him once before the wedding. Beatrix's outspokenness surprised Quin because he remembered her as quiet and withdrawn. I liked that he admitted he was wrong in not spending time to get to know her. Quin doesn't want the scandal of a divorce as his family is already in the midst of one scandal but will give Beatrix her divorce if she gives their marriage an honest chance first.
I enjoyed seeing the relationship between Quin and Beatrix grow. In an effort to be as little like his father as possible, Quin prides himself on keeping his emotions under control. It isn't easy under his current circumstances. He is overwhelmed with bringing his estate back from the brink of bankruptcy (thanks to Beatrix's money), plus dealing with a bitter, grumpy mother, one brother determined to follow in their father's footsteps and another who delights in stirring up trouble, one sullen sister and another who spends her days hiding from everyone. The last thing he wants is the attraction he feels for Beatrix to stir up unwanted emotions. Beatrix keeps her eye on the prize of her freedom at the end of six weeks while fighting her attraction to Quin.
I liked that Quin initially spent some time with Beatrix and introduced her to his family. He also tried to protect her from their obnoxious attitudes. He and Beatrix had some productive time together until the stirring of his emotions caused him to pull back. Beatrix seemed to be just marking time until she received a wake-up call from a family friend, Lady Jarrow. With Beatrix settling into her role as duchess, Quin sees and feels the changes she brings to all their lives. I liked seeing Beatrix break down some of Quin's walls and release some of the emotions he's buried for so long.
But their newfound happiness is threatened when Beatrix's uncle tries to blackmail her. I ached for Beatrix as she saw only one way to protect Quin and the others from his plans. Quin's hurt was obvious, but he couldn't deny Beatrix what she said she wanted, even though it broke his heart. An explanation of why came from an unexpected source, sending Quin chasing after her. I loved how Quin completely forgot his dislike of scandal as he reclaimed his runaway bride. The epilogue was a good lead-in to the next book.
The interactions with Quin's family were interesting. His mother was a pain in the butt with her condescending attitude toward Beatrix and her refusal to do anything to help her. I liked seeing Beatrix exert her rights as the new duchess while at the same time looking for a way to bring peace to the family. I ached for Corin, the next brother, who felt like an outsider in his own family. I loved how Beatrix discovered what bothered him and found a way to fix it. Justin and Antigone spent a lot of time sniping at each other until Beatrix found a way to reach them, too. My favorite was the youngest, Helen. I loved how she took to Beatrix and made her feel welcome.
As this book opens, Beatrix waits for a response from her husband. She does not expect him to show up in person, but there he is. Quin doesn't want a divorce at all, but he listens to Beatrix's concerns and proposes a three-month trial marriage. Beatrix doesn't want that at all but whittles him down to six weeks for him to convince her to give their marriage a chance.
I liked this meeting between Quin and Beatrix. She makes it clear that she has nothing against him personally or the fact that he married her for her money. After twelve years as a virtual prisoner of her uncle and aunt, she prizes the freedom and independence she achieved and doesn't want to give it up. She calls Quin out on the fact that she saw him once before the wedding. Beatrix's outspokenness surprised Quin because he remembered her as quiet and withdrawn. I liked that he admitted he was wrong in not spending time to get to know her. Quin doesn't want the scandal of a divorce as his family is already in the midst of one scandal but will give Beatrix her divorce if she gives their marriage an honest chance first.
I enjoyed seeing the relationship between Quin and Beatrix grow. In an effort to be as little like his father as possible, Quin prides himself on keeping his emotions under control. It isn't easy under his current circumstances. He is overwhelmed with bringing his estate back from the brink of bankruptcy (thanks to Beatrix's money), plus dealing with a bitter, grumpy mother, one brother determined to follow in their father's footsteps and another who delights in stirring up trouble, one sullen sister and another who spends her days hiding from everyone. The last thing he wants is the attraction he feels for Beatrix to stir up unwanted emotions. Beatrix keeps her eye on the prize of her freedom at the end of six weeks while fighting her attraction to Quin.
I liked that Quin initially spent some time with Beatrix and introduced her to his family. He also tried to protect her from their obnoxious attitudes. He and Beatrix had some productive time together until the stirring of his emotions caused him to pull back. Beatrix seemed to be just marking time until she received a wake-up call from a family friend, Lady Jarrow. With Beatrix settling into her role as duchess, Quin sees and feels the changes she brings to all their lives. I liked seeing Beatrix break down some of Quin's walls and release some of the emotions he's buried for so long.
But their newfound happiness is threatened when Beatrix's uncle tries to blackmail her. I ached for Beatrix as she saw only one way to protect Quin and the others from his plans. Quin's hurt was obvious, but he couldn't deny Beatrix what she said she wanted, even though it broke his heart. An explanation of why came from an unexpected source, sending Quin chasing after her. I loved how Quin completely forgot his dislike of scandal as he reclaimed his runaway bride. The epilogue was a good lead-in to the next book.
The interactions with Quin's family were interesting. His mother was a pain in the butt with her condescending attitude toward Beatrix and her refusal to do anything to help her. I liked seeing Beatrix exert her rights as the new duchess while at the same time looking for a way to bring peace to the family. I ached for Corin, the next brother, who felt like an outsider in his own family. I loved how Beatrix discovered what bothered him and found a way to fix it. Justin and Antigone spent a lot of time sniping at each other until Beatrix found a way to reach them, too. My favorite was the youngest, Helen. I loved how she took to Beatrix and made her feel welcome.
June 29, 2022
Loved both main characters and the fearsome lady jarrow made an appearance too
February 10, 2021
I enjoyed reading this story so much. Such an unusual storyline, with excellent characters. The idea that a woman would run from her wedding after the service was original, particularly as she was giving up her fortune to a man she barely knew.
From a quiet beginning, Beatrix and Quinton’s true characters were gradually revealed, keeping me engrossed. Both had such difficult backgrounds, which led them to miserable lives. Their strange marriage was a chance of happiness, yet Beatrix was determined to block that. Quin burrowed his way into her heart and mine – what a lovely man! The whirling flow of their lives, the possibilities, the hidden fears, the delight, made them yearn for each other. The tension and passion between them was palpable, which I love in a romance story.
Quin’s family were interesting. I particularly like the youngest sister, Helen, with her propensity to hide, listen and glean the goings on within the household. I feared the Dowager Duchess was irredeemable, but Beatrix gets through even to her with her kind, no nonsense determination.
I was definitely rooting for Beatrix at the end with her horrible relative, as he threatened to ruin her happiness! What a joyous read! I shall have a smile on my face for days.
From a quiet beginning, Beatrix and Quinton’s true characters were gradually revealed, keeping me engrossed. Both had such difficult backgrounds, which led them to miserable lives. Their strange marriage was a chance of happiness, yet Beatrix was determined to block that. Quin burrowed his way into her heart and mine – what a lovely man! The whirling flow of their lives, the possibilities, the hidden fears, the delight, made them yearn for each other. The tension and passion between them was palpable, which I love in a romance story.
Quin’s family were interesting. I particularly like the youngest sister, Helen, with her propensity to hide, listen and glean the goings on within the household. I feared the Dowager Duchess was irredeemable, but Beatrix gets through even to her with her kind, no nonsense determination.
I was definitely rooting for Beatrix at the end with her horrible relative, as he threatened to ruin her happiness! What a joyous read! I shall have a smile on my face for days.
February 27, 2021
Jenni Fletcher’s excellent ‘Regency Belles of Bath’ series continues with the story of Beatrix, who readers of the previous book will know as Belinda Carr, and Quinton Roxbury, Duke of Howden, the husband she left at their wedding reception. Having established a new life for herself as a baker at Belles, Bea writes to her husband asking for a divorce, only for Quin to arrive in Bath, announcing he has know her whereabouts for some time and ask that she gives marriage a try before making any decisions on the future.
With an entertaining cast of characters and strong plot whereby Bea and Quin discover they are better suited than they may have thought, the reader is drawn in to this wonderfully created Regency world from the outset, and you find yourself invested in what will become of the unlikely union as Bea fights for her independence and Quin is forced to consider how his past has affected his ability to show his feelings to the world. Moving from Bath to Yorkshire and ultimately to London, Quin and Bea’s six week trial marriage is well plotted and essentially gives them a chance to have the courtship they never had because, as Quin himself comments, ‘they had barely discussed the weather before he proposed.’
In Bea and Quin, the author has created two well-rounded and likeable characters who on initial impressions seem to have little in common; indeed Quin himself admits the marriage was more about Bea’s financial status than anything else, not to mention Bea’s unlikeable Uncle essentially pushing for the match for the benefit of Quin’s connections more than his niece’s happiness. One of the things I loved most about this story was that Bea is willing to essentially give up all the trappings of society and settle for a new life baking biscuits with no one really knowing her true background, and it is this characterisation that really sells the plot to the reader; the conflict between going back to what you left behind or staying in your new life with friends who have accepted you simply for being you and not judging you on the past. Similarly, Quin is trying to hold his family together and repair the damage caused by a drunken comment from his father which has almost irreparably damaged their reputation. It is to Quin’s credit that, as much as he want Bea to stay in his life once their six weeks is up, he is willing to give her what she wants if it will make her happy. As the plot progresses and decisions need to be made, the reader is drawn into the dilemmas faced by both characters and you really do root for them to overcome the scars of the past and look to the what could be in the future.
Once again, the author has also created some wonderful secondary characters who add so much to the plot with Quin’s mother, brothers and sisters (special mention to the scene-stealing Helen who hides under the table and plays a key role in the conclusion of the story) adding to the already established Nancy, Henrietta and Sebastian, not to mention the worth the wait re-appearance of the ‘magnificent’ Lady Jarrow (if you haven’t read the first book, please do!) who almost steals the show with her role in proceedings.
This is another excellent instalment to the series, and all that remains is to know whether there will be a fourth book featuring Nancy and James, or whether the lovely epilogue is meant to make us think if they will get their own happy ending.
With an entertaining cast of characters and strong plot whereby Bea and Quin discover they are better suited than they may have thought, the reader is drawn in to this wonderfully created Regency world from the outset, and you find yourself invested in what will become of the unlikely union as Bea fights for her independence and Quin is forced to consider how his past has affected his ability to show his feelings to the world. Moving from Bath to Yorkshire and ultimately to London, Quin and Bea’s six week trial marriage is well plotted and essentially gives them a chance to have the courtship they never had because, as Quin himself comments, ‘they had barely discussed the weather before he proposed.’
In Bea and Quin, the author has created two well-rounded and likeable characters who on initial impressions seem to have little in common; indeed Quin himself admits the marriage was more about Bea’s financial status than anything else, not to mention Bea’s unlikeable Uncle essentially pushing for the match for the benefit of Quin’s connections more than his niece’s happiness. One of the things I loved most about this story was that Bea is willing to essentially give up all the trappings of society and settle for a new life baking biscuits with no one really knowing her true background, and it is this characterisation that really sells the plot to the reader; the conflict between going back to what you left behind or staying in your new life with friends who have accepted you simply for being you and not judging you on the past. Similarly, Quin is trying to hold his family together and repair the damage caused by a drunken comment from his father which has almost irreparably damaged their reputation. It is to Quin’s credit that, as much as he want Bea to stay in his life once their six weeks is up, he is willing to give her what she wants if it will make her happy. As the plot progresses and decisions need to be made, the reader is drawn into the dilemmas faced by both characters and you really do root for them to overcome the scars of the past and look to the what could be in the future.
Once again, the author has also created some wonderful secondary characters who add so much to the plot with Quin’s mother, brothers and sisters (special mention to the scene-stealing Helen who hides under the table and plays a key role in the conclusion of the story) adding to the already established Nancy, Henrietta and Sebastian, not to mention the worth the wait re-appearance of the ‘magnificent’ Lady Jarrow (if you haven’t read the first book, please do!) who almost steals the show with her role in proceedings.
This is another excellent instalment to the series, and all that remains is to know whether there will be a fourth book featuring Nancy and James, or whether the lovely epilogue is meant to make us think if they will get their own happy ending.
April 25, 2021
When a Duke’s new bride runs away on her wedding day, it makes for a tricky start to any marriage. The Bride has turned up in a biscuit shop in Bath, and those who have read the other books in Jenni Fletcher’s series about the “Regency Belles of Bath” will know that surely romance will be in the air. Not that it is necessary to read the other books in this series to enjoy this book; it is a book very much about Beatrix, Duchess of Howden and her relationship with her new husband, Quinton Roxbury. Not that he comes unencumbered; he has a family who in their various ways are almost as challenging as his concerns about his absent wife. This is a book of romance, but also some memorable characters whose reactions to Beatrix are very entertaining, as well as a heroine whose newly found independence challenges every assumption. With humour and a keen understanding of the power of scandal in a world of secrets, this book revels in the setting of a large if shabby house for the discovery of a genuine relationship that could change lives, if both Beatrix and Quinton can understand it. Will the lure of her friends in a fashionable bakery and the attractions of being truly independent for the first time in her life triumph over her relationship with the husband she has barely met? I was very pleased to have the opportunity to read and review this special, well written book.
As the book begins, Quinton is struggling to cope with his difficult family. His mother is an angry woman, unforgiving of her late husband who she hated. His sister Antigone is almost as disagreeable, his two brothers unreachable and his youngest sister silent and hiding. Into the middle of his problems appears a letter from his missing wife. She is living as Belinda Carr, who lives and works with her friend Nancy running Belles in Bath. The fierce Nancy MacQueen is rather anti-men, so when Quinton turns up, wanting to talk to Beatrix, she does not encourage a speedy reconciliation. When the married couple do discuss matters, they reveal some of the reasons why their wedding day ended so badly. Beatrix knows that he only proposed marriage on their first meeting because he wanted her money as she is an orphaned heiress, and her uncle had negotiated for her hand as he wanted the connection with his title. Quinton explains that he had been estranged from his late father and had until recently been in France: “But there was a war!” exclaims Beatrix. “That probably explains why they gave me a sword and a pistol” replies Quinton “I was a Major”. Partly as a result of the revelations, they agree to give their marriage a chance, and Beatrix is to return to Howden, his family house, and live at there as Duchess for six weeks, but she is convinced that at the end of the time she will still want a divorce. The story of those six weeks takes up the bulk of the novel, as they both discover much more about exactly who they have married.
I really enjoyed this novel, especially the developing relationship between Beatrix and Quinton. The family that she encounters is so well described, and a surprising character acts as the catalyst for change. Dealing with Quinton’s mother is especially challenging, as the older woman is stubborn and difficult. Beatrix’s progress is well described, as is Quinton’s emotional revelations. This is a very special book that I recommend to anyone who enjoys romantic historical fiction.
As the book begins, Quinton is struggling to cope with his difficult family. His mother is an angry woman, unforgiving of her late husband who she hated. His sister Antigone is almost as disagreeable, his two brothers unreachable and his youngest sister silent and hiding. Into the middle of his problems appears a letter from his missing wife. She is living as Belinda Carr, who lives and works with her friend Nancy running Belles in Bath. The fierce Nancy MacQueen is rather anti-men, so when Quinton turns up, wanting to talk to Beatrix, she does not encourage a speedy reconciliation. When the married couple do discuss matters, they reveal some of the reasons why their wedding day ended so badly. Beatrix knows that he only proposed marriage on their first meeting because he wanted her money as she is an orphaned heiress, and her uncle had negotiated for her hand as he wanted the connection with his title. Quinton explains that he had been estranged from his late father and had until recently been in France: “But there was a war!” exclaims Beatrix. “That probably explains why they gave me a sword and a pistol” replies Quinton “I was a Major”. Partly as a result of the revelations, they agree to give their marriage a chance, and Beatrix is to return to Howden, his family house, and live at there as Duchess for six weeks, but she is convinced that at the end of the time she will still want a divorce. The story of those six weeks takes up the bulk of the novel, as they both discover much more about exactly who they have married.
I really enjoyed this novel, especially the developing relationship between Beatrix and Quinton. The family that she encounters is so well described, and a surprising character acts as the catalyst for change. Dealing with Quinton’s mother is especially challenging, as the older woman is stubborn and difficult. Beatrix’s progress is well described, as is Quinton’s emotional revelations. This is a very special book that I recommend to anyone who enjoys romantic historical fiction.
March 2, 2021
Jenni Fletcher is a talented novelist who can make any historical era her own and she sweeps her readers off to Regency England with her latest immensely enjoyable romantic tale: The Duke’s Runaway Bride.
Beatrix, Duchess of Howden, has faced up to the fact that her marriage is over. Although she knows that asking her husband Quinton Roxbury for a divorce is going to incur the scorn of society and will probably make her the subject of scurrilous gossip, she wants to break free from the shackles of matrimony and be the one in charge of her own destiny. When she sent a letter to her estranged husband, she had no reason to believe that Quinton would have any objection. After all, she can barely recall the last time the two of them were in each other’s company and to call Quinton her estranged husband would surely be an understatement – so she is absolutely flabbergasted when he turns up on her doorstep with a shocking proposition that would make any sensible woman reach for her smelling salts: a six-week marriage trial!
This was not how Beatrix had imagined things would pan out with her husband. Quinton is as far removed from being an attentive and charming husband as it is possible to get. He is cold, brooding and inscrutable and seems to be not the slightest bit enthusiastic about their marriage. Why did he propose this trial? What is he hoping to get out of this arrangement when a divorce would enable them to live separate lives? While every instinct is telling Beatrix to stick to her guns and not let him dissuade her from getting the divorce, a part of her cannot help but wonder what secrets her husband is hiding from her…
As the two of them find themselves spending more and more time together, Beatrix quickly realizes that her husband is not the aloof and arrogant man she had thought him to be. His rough exterior is masking a very dark secret that has left him with no other choice but to harden his heart and not let anybody close – not even the woman with whom he has ended up falling madly in love with again: his wife, Beatrix.
As their feelings for one another intensify, will Beatrix and Quinton find the courage to admit the truth about how they really feel about one another? Or will they end up throwing away this second chance at a happy ending?
Jenni Fletcher has outdone herself once again with a dramatic, emotional and poignant historical romance that is very difficult to put down. The Duke’s Runaway Bride is an engaging historical romance about second chances, learning to trust and letting go of the past that tells the story of two vivid and colourful characters that will steal readers’ hearts. Beatrix was a clever, kind and loyal heroine and brooding Quinton is sure to be a firm hit with historical romance readers who like their heroes brooding, flawed and enigmatic.
A first class Regency romance from a superb storyteller, historical fans will find Jenni Fletcher’s The Duke’s Runaway Bride hard to resist.
Beatrix, Duchess of Howden, has faced up to the fact that her marriage is over. Although she knows that asking her husband Quinton Roxbury for a divorce is going to incur the scorn of society and will probably make her the subject of scurrilous gossip, she wants to break free from the shackles of matrimony and be the one in charge of her own destiny. When she sent a letter to her estranged husband, she had no reason to believe that Quinton would have any objection. After all, she can barely recall the last time the two of them were in each other’s company and to call Quinton her estranged husband would surely be an understatement – so she is absolutely flabbergasted when he turns up on her doorstep with a shocking proposition that would make any sensible woman reach for her smelling salts: a six-week marriage trial!
This was not how Beatrix had imagined things would pan out with her husband. Quinton is as far removed from being an attentive and charming husband as it is possible to get. He is cold, brooding and inscrutable and seems to be not the slightest bit enthusiastic about their marriage. Why did he propose this trial? What is he hoping to get out of this arrangement when a divorce would enable them to live separate lives? While every instinct is telling Beatrix to stick to her guns and not let him dissuade her from getting the divorce, a part of her cannot help but wonder what secrets her husband is hiding from her…
As the two of them find themselves spending more and more time together, Beatrix quickly realizes that her husband is not the aloof and arrogant man she had thought him to be. His rough exterior is masking a very dark secret that has left him with no other choice but to harden his heart and not let anybody close – not even the woman with whom he has ended up falling madly in love with again: his wife, Beatrix.
As their feelings for one another intensify, will Beatrix and Quinton find the courage to admit the truth about how they really feel about one another? Or will they end up throwing away this second chance at a happy ending?
Jenni Fletcher has outdone herself once again with a dramatic, emotional and poignant historical romance that is very difficult to put down. The Duke’s Runaway Bride is an engaging historical romance about second chances, learning to trust and letting go of the past that tells the story of two vivid and colourful characters that will steal readers’ hearts. Beatrix was a clever, kind and loyal heroine and brooding Quinton is sure to be a firm hit with historical romance readers who like their heroes brooding, flawed and enigmatic.
A first class Regency romance from a superb storyteller, historical fans will find Jenni Fletcher’s The Duke’s Runaway Bride hard to resist.
February 20, 2021
On their wedding day, shortly after marrying Quinton Roxbury, the Duke of Howden, Beatrix runs away to Bath and sets herself up in business running a biscuit shop. Having had no communication since their wedding day, Quinton visits Beatrix after receiving a letter from her offering him a divorce. Quinton doesn’t want a divorce. In order to change her mind Quinton makes Beatrix a proposal. She has to return with him to Howden Hall, give their marriage a go for six weeks and take up her role as Duchess of Howden in that time. Quinton’s plan is to change Beatrix’s mind within that period and if he can’t he will petition Parliament for a divorce.
Both characters are wealthy in their own right but have been subject to scandals in their past, which the other isn’t aware of. They marry each other for different reasons: Quinton marries Beatrix for her wealth which will restore his ailing estate and Beatrix marries Quinton to escape her guardians, her uncle and aunt. In those six weeks Quinton and Beatrix get to know each other properly, learn about each other’s temperaments and pasts. From strangers to friends to something more? Will Quinton and Beatrix find common ground and maybe fall in love?
I really enjoyed this read and it was nice to be whisked away to another time and place. The storyline was very different to other historical romance novels I’ve read before. What I liked was that when we’re introduced to the characters it’s just over three months after their wedding, both are living separate lives and it’s unclear why Beatrix took the step she did. The reader finds out more as the story progresses. I loved the characters. Although Quinton has power and control over Beatrix’s life which husbands in the 1800s would have had over their wives he chooses not to use it. Instead he shows understanding and gentleness despite knowing for many months that Beatrix has been in Bath after she left. He only approaches her when she makes contact with him. As for Beatrix I loved how independent she is and that she leaves behind her wealth and a life of luxury to set up a biscuit shop. As for the chemistry between Quinton and Beatrix it is off the scale.
This is the third book in the Regency Belles of Bath series but can be read as a standalone novel. After reading this book I’m really looking forward to reading the first two books in the series.
A sweet wholesome story, filled with romance and likeable characters which was a pleasure to read!
I read a gifted copy for an honest review.
Both characters are wealthy in their own right but have been subject to scandals in their past, which the other isn’t aware of. They marry each other for different reasons: Quinton marries Beatrix for her wealth which will restore his ailing estate and Beatrix marries Quinton to escape her guardians, her uncle and aunt. In those six weeks Quinton and Beatrix get to know each other properly, learn about each other’s temperaments and pasts. From strangers to friends to something more? Will Quinton and Beatrix find common ground and maybe fall in love?
I really enjoyed this read and it was nice to be whisked away to another time and place. The storyline was very different to other historical romance novels I’ve read before. What I liked was that when we’re introduced to the characters it’s just over three months after their wedding, both are living separate lives and it’s unclear why Beatrix took the step she did. The reader finds out more as the story progresses. I loved the characters. Although Quinton has power and control over Beatrix’s life which husbands in the 1800s would have had over their wives he chooses not to use it. Instead he shows understanding and gentleness despite knowing for many months that Beatrix has been in Bath after she left. He only approaches her when she makes contact with him. As for Beatrix I loved how independent she is and that she leaves behind her wealth and a life of luxury to set up a biscuit shop. As for the chemistry between Quinton and Beatrix it is off the scale.
This is the third book in the Regency Belles of Bath series but can be read as a standalone novel. After reading this book I’m really looking forward to reading the first two books in the series.
A sweet wholesome story, filled with romance and likeable characters which was a pleasure to read!
I read a gifted copy for an honest review.
January 31, 2021
I’ve read all the books in the Belles of Bath series, and loved each one. This one added nicely to the collection.
Beatrix has run away on her wedding day, although in the first instance I’m having a hard time seeing why, since her husband, Quinton, is gorgeous. She has been living in Bath incognito, and working at Belles, which is why her story qualifies for this series.
I felt every sympathy for Quinton. He has such a lot on his plate: an appalling mother, siblings that range from a grown man of a brother with issues, through two brats who need their heads knocking together, to a shy and reclusive child who, today, would be in therapy, but who really just needs to be loved. Then there’s the estate his late father let go to rack and ruin, the family scandal that’s driven them all apart and left them all with varying degrees of PTSD. Oh, and a wife who ran away from the wedding breakfast without a word of explanation and now wants him to divorce her, an act that would add yet another layer of scandal to the mix. I’m surprised HE wasn’t the one who ran away!
He’s a decent man, caring and compassionate, and manages to keep a sense of humour through most of it. Can I have him?
It took me longer to warm to Beatrix, but as I got to know her, I began to see she did what she thought she must. A woman in the early 19th century had very little control over her own life, and the uncle she was living with certainly manipulated her for his own benefit. Escaping him by marrying Quinton was understandable, and Quinton’s behaviour towards her during their betrothal was not likely to make her think he’d be any better. Honestly, why are some men, who are, in every other way, reasonable human beings, so obtuse when it comes to being sensitive to the needs of females? And having upset her, they stand by, blank eyed, without a clue what they did wrong. There are plenty of men like this in the world, and Quinton's behaviour rang true.
I’d like to have seen a little more of the other Belles, but they do seem to move away from the area when they get their men. Pity, really, because one of the delights of a series is re-encountering people you’ve got to know in previous books. But that’s a minor complaint in an otherwise very enjoyable book.
I do look forward to Nancy’s story next. From what I know of her, that should be a real twisty turner of a plot, and well worth the ride!
Beatrix has run away on her wedding day, although in the first instance I’m having a hard time seeing why, since her husband, Quinton, is gorgeous. She has been living in Bath incognito, and working at Belles, which is why her story qualifies for this series.
I felt every sympathy for Quinton. He has such a lot on his plate: an appalling mother, siblings that range from a grown man of a brother with issues, through two brats who need their heads knocking together, to a shy and reclusive child who, today, would be in therapy, but who really just needs to be loved. Then there’s the estate his late father let go to rack and ruin, the family scandal that’s driven them all apart and left them all with varying degrees of PTSD. Oh, and a wife who ran away from the wedding breakfast without a word of explanation and now wants him to divorce her, an act that would add yet another layer of scandal to the mix. I’m surprised HE wasn’t the one who ran away!
He’s a decent man, caring and compassionate, and manages to keep a sense of humour through most of it. Can I have him?
It took me longer to warm to Beatrix, but as I got to know her, I began to see she did what she thought she must. A woman in the early 19th century had very little control over her own life, and the uncle she was living with certainly manipulated her for his own benefit. Escaping him by marrying Quinton was understandable, and Quinton’s behaviour towards her during their betrothal was not likely to make her think he’d be any better. Honestly, why are some men, who are, in every other way, reasonable human beings, so obtuse when it comes to being sensitive to the needs of females? And having upset her, they stand by, blank eyed, without a clue what they did wrong. There are plenty of men like this in the world, and Quinton's behaviour rang true.
I’d like to have seen a little more of the other Belles, but they do seem to move away from the area when they get their men. Pity, really, because one of the delights of a series is re-encountering people you’ve got to know in previous books. But that’s a minor complaint in an otherwise very enjoyable book.
I do look forward to Nancy’s story next. From what I know of her, that should be a real twisty turner of a plot, and well worth the ride!
February 18, 2021
Am I surprised that I loved the plot and characters of this book? Actually, I am not. In this new book, Jenni Fletcher marvel us with her engaging characters, lovely moments and brilliant storytelling.
As we follow Beatrix and Quinton in this second chance at love, I couldn't help myself, and ended up falling in love with the characters. Two characters that I could understand, that I could connect in some way, that made me feel a part of that time and that society.
Beatrix was lovely and Quin was just amazing. When they were together, the interactions... What can I say? It was interesting to read about the connection they had and the one they built. It was so enjoyable to see their relationship grow, their fears and past come to light, and their love becoming stronger.
I loved that it was a different kind of second chance story. I loved the drama, the romance, the development of the characters and the plot. All in a flow of the story that made it hard to put down the book.
Overall, Jenni Fletcher yet again gave us a lovely story and I don't even know what to say to describe my love for the novel, without giving spoilers. Although it's part of a series, it can be read as a standalone, so don't be scared to read it. It's really amazing!
[I want to thank Rachel, at Rachel’s Random Resources, and Jenni Fletcher for the eCopy of this book and for allowing me to join in the fun and being a part of the blog tour with my honest review of the book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.]
As we follow Beatrix and Quinton in this second chance at love, I couldn't help myself, and ended up falling in love with the characters. Two characters that I could understand, that I could connect in some way, that made me feel a part of that time and that society.
Beatrix was lovely and Quin was just amazing. When they were together, the interactions... What can I say? It was interesting to read about the connection they had and the one they built. It was so enjoyable to see their relationship grow, their fears and past come to light, and their love becoming stronger.
I loved that it was a different kind of second chance story. I loved the drama, the romance, the development of the characters and the plot. All in a flow of the story that made it hard to put down the book.
Overall, Jenni Fletcher yet again gave us a lovely story and I don't even know what to say to describe my love for the novel, without giving spoilers. Although it's part of a series, it can be read as a standalone, so don't be scared to read it. It's really amazing!
[I want to thank Rachel, at Rachel’s Random Resources, and Jenni Fletcher for the eCopy of this book and for allowing me to join in the fun and being a part of the blog tour with my honest review of the book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.]
June 8, 2024
Beatrix ran away from her new husband - on their wedding day. Having tasted the first freedom she'd known in years, she was at that point no longer under the thumb of her tyrannical aunt and uncle, and wasn't attached to her husband except legally. He got her money - she wanted her freedom.
After running away to Bath, not leaving word to her husband about where she would be, she struggled for a while until she was hired at Belle's, a biscuit shop. There, she made friends with the women who worked there and they became her new family.
However, she now wants to give her husband, Quinton Roxbury, his walking (divorce) papers, so she sends him a letter asking for him to file for a divorce. He needed her money and she has given it to him. Thinking he wants nothing more from her than that, she is surprised to find him outside the shop in Bath where she works, after receiving her letter. He wants to make a deal with her, he will grant her a divorce if she agrees to spend six weeks at Howden Hall with him, pretending to be his duchess. Beatrix reluctantly agrees with this and is surprised to find Quinton's family an angry, chaotic mess when she gets there. And a scandal that has made them miserable.
When Beatrix sees their misery, something inside her wants to straighten if out if she can, and the more time she spends with her estranged husband, the more she starts to like him.
Will Beatrix and Quinton have a happily-ever-after? A good read.
After running away to Bath, not leaving word to her husband about where she would be, she struggled for a while until she was hired at Belle's, a biscuit shop. There, she made friends with the women who worked there and they became her new family.
However, she now wants to give her husband, Quinton Roxbury, his walking (divorce) papers, so she sends him a letter asking for him to file for a divorce. He needed her money and she has given it to him. Thinking he wants nothing more from her than that, she is surprised to find him outside the shop in Bath where she works, after receiving her letter. He wants to make a deal with her, he will grant her a divorce if she agrees to spend six weeks at Howden Hall with him, pretending to be his duchess. Beatrix reluctantly agrees with this and is surprised to find Quinton's family an angry, chaotic mess when she gets there. And a scandal that has made them miserable.
When Beatrix sees their misery, something inside her wants to straighten if out if she can, and the more time she spends with her estranged husband, the more she starts to like him.
Will Beatrix and Quinton have a happily-ever-after? A good read.
February 28, 2021
This is the story of Quinton and Beatrix, a pair that know what they want individually but what each of them wants does not exactly match up. The story is told over 26 Chapters including a Prologue and Epilogue. The Prologue is brilliant as it gets the reader intrigued right from the get go. It is also the third book in the 'Regency Belles of Bath' series.
The book jumps straight into the story which is brilliant, as it keeps the reader gripped and wanting to find out what happens next. The book is easy to get stuck into and readers will find soon find themselves flying through the chapters.
The two characters themselves could not be more different. Beatrix found a life in Bath and very much wants to keep her independence and freedom. Whereas Quinton wants to avoid any scandal. throughout the book there are some brilliant character interactions. Not only between Quinton and Beatrix but also between them and other characters.
Overall I completely fell in love with the story of Quinton and Beatrix. Everything in this book appeals to me as a reader. If anything this book makes me want to read the first book even more. It also makes me want to see where the story goes next. The Epilogue on this book actually gives the reader a hint to who the next story is about.
The book jumps straight into the story which is brilliant, as it keeps the reader gripped and wanting to find out what happens next. The book is easy to get stuck into and readers will find soon find themselves flying through the chapters.
The two characters themselves could not be more different. Beatrix found a life in Bath and very much wants to keep her independence and freedom. Whereas Quinton wants to avoid any scandal. throughout the book there are some brilliant character interactions. Not only between Quinton and Beatrix but also between them and other characters.
Overall I completely fell in love with the story of Quinton and Beatrix. Everything in this book appeals to me as a reader. If anything this book makes me want to read the first book even more. It also makes me want to see where the story goes next. The Epilogue on this book actually gives the reader a hint to who the next story is about.
January 12, 2021
A runaway bride, a Duke, a dysfunctional family and a countdown.
Beatrix fled from her own wedding day after the vows. Repairing to Bath, she found herself starving and penniless, rescued by the managers of Belles, she became a baker and stayed ensconced there until she wrote to her husband asking for a divorce.
Quinton, Duke of Howden, had already his share of scandal so his bride request didn't bode well with him. So he went to Bath sure that his bride would willing return with him. Instead he found a girl different from the one he married. In the end they agree in a trial period of six week.
When she arrived at his estate she found a very dysfunctional family, captained by her bitter mother-in-law.
As the end of the period approaches, they found a way to their hearts.
There was an evil uncle that try to ruin everything but at end true love wins.
I loved this book, more than the other two of the series. The characters were two unloved souls that had found their ways to cope with this void. He suppressing every emotion she looking for love.
I've received this book from the author as arc.
Beatrix fled from her own wedding day after the vows. Repairing to Bath, she found herself starving and penniless, rescued by the managers of Belles, she became a baker and stayed ensconced there until she wrote to her husband asking for a divorce.
Quinton, Duke of Howden, had already his share of scandal so his bride request didn't bode well with him. So he went to Bath sure that his bride would willing return with him. Instead he found a girl different from the one he married. In the end they agree in a trial period of six week.
When she arrived at his estate she found a very dysfunctional family, captained by her bitter mother-in-law.
As the end of the period approaches, they found a way to their hearts.
There was an evil uncle that try to ruin everything but at end true love wins.
I loved this book, more than the other two of the series. The characters were two unloved souls that had found their ways to cope with this void. He suppressing every emotion she looking for love.
I've received this book from the author as arc.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 18, 2021
About the Book:
After the I do’s, Beatrix (she is the runaway bride) packs her bags and heads out the back door to start a new life as a baker in Bath.
She is surprised when her husband, Quinton (he is the Duke), shows up and says he doesn’t want a divorce and everyone but their families thinks they are living happily ever after in Howden Hall.
He proposes a 6 week trial marriage..Beatrix has to come back to Howden Hall but they will have separate bedrooms. After 6 weeks if things don’t work out, then Quinton will give Beatrix the freedom she has always been craving and officially give her a divorce.
I’ll let you read the book yourself to see how the 6 weeks play out and the end results!
My Thoughts:
I absolutely love both Beatrix and Quinton and those characters are my absolute favorite part of the book. In my mind, they have become real people and I love their personalities. They both came with their fair share of baggage which I felt made for a great storyline.
I thought the dialogue in this book was excellently done and made the story really flow easily.
I read this in an afternoon and loved it!
After the I do’s, Beatrix (she is the runaway bride) packs her bags and heads out the back door to start a new life as a baker in Bath.
She is surprised when her husband, Quinton (he is the Duke), shows up and says he doesn’t want a divorce and everyone but their families thinks they are living happily ever after in Howden Hall.
He proposes a 6 week trial marriage..Beatrix has to come back to Howden Hall but they will have separate bedrooms. After 6 weeks if things don’t work out, then Quinton will give Beatrix the freedom she has always been craving and officially give her a divorce.
I’ll let you read the book yourself to see how the 6 weeks play out and the end results!
My Thoughts:
I absolutely love both Beatrix and Quinton and those characters are my absolute favorite part of the book. In my mind, they have become real people and I love their personalities. They both came with their fair share of baggage which I felt made for a great storyline.
I thought the dialogue in this book was excellently done and made the story really flow easily.
I read this in an afternoon and loved it!
February 6, 2021
I've just finished this and its just lovely. It's not about courtship or flirtatious debutantes all trying to snag a titled husband. This is about Beatrix, an orphaned woman of trade married off to a Duke to seal advantageous liaisons for her Uncle.
Finally married she seizes an opportunity to run away and become her own person. She flees to Bath and finds work, purpose and friendship.
Her husband Quin, a man with family troubles of his own, tracks her down and offers her a deal, be his Duchess for six weeks and if she still wants to leave, he will give her a divorce.
So begins a really beautifully written love story that flows easily. Some romances jar but this one sweeps the reader along in a most enjoyable way. There are also some very well drawn secondary characters which you hope the author will continue to explore in future books.
Finally married she seizes an opportunity to run away and become her own person. She flees to Bath and finds work, purpose and friendship.
Her husband Quin, a man with family troubles of his own, tracks her down and offers her a deal, be his Duchess for six weeks and if she still wants to leave, he will give her a divorce.
So begins a really beautifully written love story that flows easily. Some romances jar but this one sweeps the reader along in a most enjoyable way. There are also some very well drawn secondary characters which you hope the author will continue to explore in future books.
February 18, 2021
This is the third book in the Regency Belles of Bath series but reads well as a standalone. Marred with scandal, the Duke of Howden's life is difficult. Contacted by his runaway bride, he strikes a bargain that may lead to happiness or disaster.
Quin the Duke has a satirical sense of humour that endears him. Beatrix, surprised by his offer and her reaction to him, agrees to his proposal. First friends and then romantically involved, as they live together in the family home. Beatrix, damaged by her childhood, wants to help Quin's family find some positives in their lives.
This is a lovely Regency romance with plenty of conflicts and relatable characters and a heroine and hero that deserve to find love.
I received a copy of this book from the author in return for an honest review.
Quin the Duke has a satirical sense of humour that endears him. Beatrix, surprised by his offer and her reaction to him, agrees to his proposal. First friends and then romantically involved, as they live together in the family home. Beatrix, damaged by her childhood, wants to help Quin's family find some positives in their lives.
This is a lovely Regency romance with plenty of conflicts and relatable characters and a heroine and hero that deserve to find love.
I received a copy of this book from the author in return for an honest review.
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