Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

Sherton Sisters #1

A Duke to Elude

Rate this book
She’s waiting for true love.
He’s tasked with uncovering the truth.
When nefarious schemes threaten her reputation, he finds his heart on the line with it.

Lady Rosabel, eldest daughter of the Earl of Sherton, has no interest in being a Duchess, despite countless proposals from eligible nobility. Secretly, she is waiting for a love match—preferably with someone who carries no title. Bel’s third Season is predictably disappointing until the mysterious Duke of Wexford arrives and has her questioning her plans to refuse any suitor with his status.

James Allingham, the 6th Duke of Wexford, seems to have inherited the role as advisor to the ailing King along with the dukedom. Investigating Lord Prescott’s schemes is tricky enough without the interference of Lady Rosabel. She is beautiful and intelligent, but Wexford has no time for courting.

Wexford needs to uncover everything about Prescott’s plans to destabilize the colonies. When Lady Rosabel is implicated in the schemes, James fights his suspicions of—and his attraction to—the beautiful young woman as he presses on to find the truth.

217 pages, Paperback

First published September 1, 2020

783 people are currently reading
470 people want to read

About the author

Wendy May Andrews

52 books161 followers
Wendy May Andrews has been reading whatever she could get her hands on since the age of five. She has been writing for almost as long, although Tempting the Earl was the first story she was willing to share with anyone other than her mother. Since then, Wendy has published more than forty Sweet Historical Romance novels.

Wendy lives in Toronto with her own real-life hero. When not writing or reading, she loves traveling with her husband, wherever the mood takes them.

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
864 (49%)
4 stars
567 (32%)
3 stars
248 (14%)
2 stars
61 (3%)
1 star
18 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 120 reviews
4,589 reviews31 followers
September 17, 2020
I’m not sure a young lady would have been allowed to say those words but Lady Rosabel Sherton definitely thought them. Not that James, The Duke of Wexford, planned to ask. Wendy May Andrews kept me in stiches with how hard both Rosabel and James were trying not to court. I totally enjoyed this story and read it in one sitting. The only problem is now I have to wait for Hilaria’s story. Was any young lady more inappropriately named?
Profile Image for Deborah Layne.
76 reviews3 followers
July 4, 2021
The whole thesis of the book is unfulfilled

What happens to the scoundrel? What were his actual crimes?
I chose the rating because I liked the book but I didn't like the nonfulfillment of its promises: the danger and therefore the rescue, the reasonable doubt that leads to her being suspect, and the glaring contraction to what we as readers are told the book is about. Many books fail in this way but it can be remedied by rewriting the summary. In this instance, I am attracted to the characters and their stories. But yet the taste of disappointment lingers, more so because the epilogue is about the next two characters who will fall in love. Well written but it leaves more questions and then the ultimate question becomes: when an author falls short of his/her promise how can the write up be changed or the content before it hits the market?
Thank you.
2 reviews
November 2, 2021
It was an easy read, not really plot heavy or interesting. Lots of repetition.
141 reviews3 followers
June 12, 2021
Rather abrupt ending

I enjoyed the story and the interaction of the main characters, but it just seemed to end abruptly as though it was part of a longer book being broken up into shorter ones.
Profile Image for Richelle .
410 reviews33 followers
July 12, 2021
Romance - Sweet and Clean
Language - None
Violence - None
Series - Book 1

This author has been on my TBR pile 📚📖 for a while now, and this is the first book I have read by her. And I absolutely loved it! ❤

Rosabel is an interesting character, and definitely has multiple layers that she guards very closely, and though the eldest daughter of an Earl, has no desire to marry a man with a title. A younger son would do just nicely for her, and she wants to only marry for love.

The Duke is a vey busy mam, closely associated with the King, and was certainly not looking for a wife, let alone love.

There is so much to like about this story. The interactions between Rosabel amd the Duke are humorous with their witty banter. Their relationship is definitely not one of love at first sight, but builds over time.

I also enjoyed the backstorry of Rosabel, and why she keeps her emotions and actions so closely guarded. NO SPOILERS HERE.

I definitely look forward to reading more by this author.
Profile Image for Lori D.
4,080 reviews131 followers
September 23, 2020
The bigger question is why one would want to elude a Duke?

Rosabel wanted to marry for love, not a title, not for money, just a man that she could love and would feel the same about her in return. She was the oldest of 5 sisters and was in her third season. But had not found that special man. But that was about to change.

James, the 6th Duke of Wexford has a lot on his plate. He has to uncover a scheme one of his peers is involved in, but it seems, the charms of one lady are interrupting his focus. Yes, Lady Rosabel draws his interest, even though she is not trying to and he cannot resist.

I adored this wonderful story of two people dancing around each other, trying to resist, but sometimes the heart cannot deny what it wants! But their are secrets that need to come out and as the two spend more time together, an enemy may appear!

Great story, amazing characters and a thoroughly enjoyable read! Do not miss a word!
2,449 reviews27 followers
September 14, 2020
3.5 stars
Lady Rosabel is trying hard to improve herself and to think more about others. She doesn’t wish to be the centre of attention and knows anything she does may reflect badly upon her sisters. James, Duke of Wexford is very involved in parliamentary issues and wants to thwart another lord’s schemes. Rosabel and James meet on several occasions and although Rosabel likes James, she doesn’t want to be in the limelight as a duchess and thinks she would prefer to marry a plain mister but more importantly she wishes to marry for love. Her two younger sisters also feature. This was an enjoyable read. I received a copy and have voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Bethanne.
618 reviews10 followers
Read
May 8, 2021
Nice story

The daughter of a prominent Earl begins to be friends with a Duke who we learn has the ear of the King. They dance around unexplained government intrigue and fall in love. Two important issues were suddenly dropped : what exactly was Prescott ( bad guy) doing that was against the government and what happened when they were supposed to duel? Important issues that needed to be addressed.
Profile Image for readundancies.
1,124 reviews128 followers
August 7, 2021
This story is one where the romance is the sole focus.

Which is not to say that there aren't other subplots that pop up within the book, but rather that they are not fleshed out; they exist only to push the romance further along as the plot progresses and are not dealt with in any way such that they become resolved or even referred back to afterwards. That is likely going to be a turn off to many readers, so I definitely think it's worth noting because a lot of the contrived situations that initially start off with the two romantic leads becoming involved in one another are usually in direct result of these external subplots that ultimately become very fraying and long loose threads upon the story's conclusion and they are not exactly easy to ignore.

There's also still the fact that Rosabel tends to downplay her intelligence because as a woman she's not meant to speak *out of turn* with thoughts she *shouldn't be concerning herself with.* It's infuriating to say the least, especially because she's taught herself to be virtually unexpressive with her emotions so as to not get hurt.

If you can get past that however, the romance itself is cute and quaint - this being a sweet and clean Regency romance with a guaranteed HEA.

Is it particularly swoonworthy? Not really.

But it's easy to root for the relationships to succeed, and the pacing is so quick that you find yourself at the end without even really realizing it.

So while I don't think it's the best Regency romance ever, if any of the above thoughts appeal to you, and you're in the mood for a quick little historical romance read, this is sure to help pass the time.
Profile Image for Donique Collins.
306 reviews2 followers
March 11, 2023
The following are my thoughts as I read this book. Rosabel Sherton…daughter of an earl, in her third Season, didn’t want to rush into marriage but now desires a love of her own. James Allingham…Duke of Wexford - Earl of Carstowe - Viscount Walmsley, good friend to Lord Crossley, very immune to women throwing themselves at him. This is my first book by this author and just from the opening it appears as if the MCs are not impressed with one another. The h is so very controlled with her emotions and reaction to things. Both the MCs are determined to avoid one another. The H is confused by his curiosity about the h. I believe the h is very literal in her thinking. Ok so the H has a specific non romantic/marriage reason for seeking out the h. The H has decided to coerce the h into doing as he wants, but I believe he has met his match. Yes the h is nothing like the H thought she was and he finds it very intriguing and disconcerting at the same time, LOL. Ahh looks like the h has found her dream guy., but she is not as thrilled about it as she thought she would be. Just as I thought one brief interaction and the MCs were finally openly communicating. Now we have a HEA! This was a sweet and innocent story, it was thoroughly enjoyable. Oh yes, there is also a hint to which Sherton sister would be next to have a story.
Profile Image for RomanceIsMyJam.
516 reviews
March 5, 2024
I would possibly recommend reading Inheriting Trouble first if you want a more well rounded experience of this world of Sherton’s, it isn’t necessary though. It has the Sheraton sisters and most likely Duke of Wexford in it as he is friends with Crossley. I previously read The Duke Conspiracy (not part of this series) and didn’t like it overly much. So decided to give this series a chance.

My opinion on this story is about the same. This is written with long winded paragraphs. A few times info was repeated. I got tired of the lengths of paragraphs so just started skimming for dialogue. Which was barely more tolerable. The conflict/secret falls a bit flat once you know what it is and the larger part of it isn’t even resolved.

Some aspects of this story are rinse and repeat in The Duke Conspiracy. Which was disappointing and did nothing to give me a positive reading experience here.

The epilogue is spent setting up Hilaria’s story. Also Northcott shows up in Vigilia (what is this name? How does on pronounce it? How do you get Vicky from it?) story.

I have generously given my time to reading two stories by this author and am now done. This writer is not for me.

This is a clean story with just kissing. I can only recall on kissing scene.
910 reviews5 followers
July 6, 2021
A plain "Mr.," will do nicely

Just because you are born the daughter of an Earl doesn't mean you must marry a man with a title! Rosabel is the oldest of the Earl of Shelton's daughters. Smart, well spoken, and determined to have as wonderful a marriage as her parents, she has worked hard to be the perfect example for her younger sisters (her next oldest sister, Hilaria, has been heard to say she'll only marry a duke!) Unfortunately, as so often happens in the gossip of the ton, the desire for a duke has been attributed to Rosabel!
James, the Duke of Wexford, works for the Prince, having been given his late father's responsibilities. With a fellow lord once again trying to stir up trouble in the House of Lords, Wexford is following all leads to catch the crooked lord. When James spots the suspect with Rosabel, he begins to suspect that the young lady might somehow be involved with the wretch.
You'll want to stay up late to find out why the bad lord is seeking to cause problems, and if, in the midst of the confusion surrounding the investigation, James and Rosabel can see their way to understand each other's feelings!
Profile Image for Martha B..
836 reviews11 followers
August 24, 2021
A Duke and an Attraction to Elude

Three years ago, Lady Rosabel Sherton decided that she has no interest in marrying a man with a title, or a man who is not a love match. So why is she so attracted to the perplexing Duke of Wexford?

James Allingham, the 6th Duke of Wexford has no interest in marrying anyone, he is just too busy. So why is he so attracted to the baffling Lady Rosabel?

A Duke to Elude by Wendy May Andrews is a sweet and simple romance that is well written and overall lots of fun to read. The balance of dialogue to description and introspection allows for a nice flow, and I love the chemistry and humorous banter between James and Bel. They are both likable personalities, as are the supporting characters. The ending is sweet and has an epilogue that is designed to lead into the next story in the series.

However, I am wondering about a plot issue that is just ignored and left unaddressed by the ending. Granted it is a small part of the story, but still it should have been wrapped up.

Content 411: This is a very clean read that is suitable for all romance readers.
379 reviews
May 4, 2022
Wonderfully entertaining

Very much enjoyed this story. The characters were very likeable; I would have wished for the main male character to be more fully developed, more background be provided. It was difficult to relate to him. One thing which I found disturbing about this book was the fact that almost the entire book, we see the two main characters dance around each other, falling in love, not admitting it to themselves, attempting to be interested in other people, etc etc. At times, it became wearisome, it was so drawn out. Then at the very end, within like a few pages, they admit they love each other, are betrothed and get married. It felt so rushed, like the writer wanted to get it over with. It was a bit disappointing. Nevertheless I found the storyline touching, and heartwarming. Thank you for a lovely read.
457 reviews
August 31, 2022
I almost put this book down after the first chapter. It just didn’t flow and I couldn’t like Bel… she was so all over the place and it just didn’t make any sense. But I thought I’d do one more chapter just in case and I’m glad I did. It started to give a little more info on who she is and her thoughts about things. There isn’t any real plot or danger or big shabang in this story- just two people talking and courting and falling in love against their own desires- but then finding that those desires have been there all along. It was nice to read their banter and have a witty, smart conversation between the two. It does have some things that seemed like it could have gone somewhere, like spies and a bad guy, but then it just kind of drizzled away and didn’t go anywhere. But, in the end it was a good read. I shall even venture forth onto the next book and see if it follows
Profile Image for Bridget Love to read Lewis.
2,471 reviews29 followers
December 29, 2020
Not a Duchess

Rosabel is the oldest of 5 daughters! She is the epitome of cool calm and collected until! She isn't! Duke of Wexford has a investigation to complete but is rather taken with Rosabel! Wexford asks some probing questions into Rosabel's past and it intertwined with the subject of his investigation but for different reasons!? This end was odd to me there was mention of a duel and then nothing else is said? I do enjoy while Rosabel was briefly courted by a mere Mr! That truly was what she wanted at least before Wexford! There is a HEA but it doesn't feel real at the end!
2,556 reviews46 followers
February 10, 2021
A clean regency romance. I enjoyed the relationship between Rosabel and James but was surprised at the suddenness of his proposal. I hadn't realized it was coming so soon.
I think the complaint I had about this story was that it didn't fully resolve the situation with the vile Prescott. I want to know if he is stopped politically. Will it be addressed in the next book? I know that part of the story is a tool to get Rosabel and James together and isn't the main storyline but I still wanted closure.

No sex, language or violence but a recollection of sexual assault that occurred two years before the book began.
Profile Image for curi_ous.reader.
263 reviews
May 19, 2023
There's so many things that irked me about this story.
The beginning kind of feels like being thrown into a story that has already started. Bel and the duke already know one another at that point.
The duke, at times, seems very condescending towards any women other than Rosabel - as though he wanted someone "not like the other girls".
Moreover, they seem to constantly either be sighing or laughing/trying to stifle their amusement. No other emotions or reactions at all.
Also that ending?? Everything was super abrupt and some things didn't have any resolution.
All in all, this was a miss for me.
Profile Image for Jacqueline Lutz.
Author 2 books
April 12, 2024
I enjoyed the premise of the book but so much of it could have been better fleshed out. Towards the end it seemed to be a hurried wrap up and it left me deeply unsatisfied. There was all this wasted build up in the beginning. The main issue didn’t really come about until the last few chapters of the book. By then, it was quickly tossed aside for a hurried proposal. I would have loved to read more about Prescott and Wexford going toe to toe and exploring how Rosabel actually took on the task of being a duchess. Lots of missed opportunities with this book. And it left me with no desire to read the next one.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
1,235 reviews3 followers
April 22, 2024
Despite Wexford tending to his ducal duties, he can't help but to be attracted to Lady Rosabel, who ironically has no wish to be a duke's wife. With many refusals of marriage behind her, she feels pressed related to her several young sisters in line. However, he becomes involved when there is a history between Lady Rosabel and a Lord Prescott, whom he is investigating for his underlying politics to determine their past relationship. Great character development but a bit light on the mystery aspect and the results of it. Definitely reflects the customs and language of the era for those who enjoy a Regency love story.
Profile Image for Gerda.
775 reviews
July 7, 2021
I liked this book and I would have liked it a lot more if it were fleshed out. Too bad Ms. Andrews just gave up on having a suspenseful political intrigue as a subplot. There isn't much left to set the story apart from other books: they get to know each other, other characters are introduced for the benefit of a sequel, he gets jealous, has an epiphany, and proposes. What happened to the duel? What happened to the bill?
I was missing a real epilogue set in the future, this one covers their wedding breakfast ten days later.
Profile Image for Laura.
77 reviews2 followers
May 3, 2022
I enjoyed this book set in the Georgian Period. There wasn't much of the manners and fashions of the period and only brief references to political issues of the day. However, the alternating viewpoints of the female and male protagonists was very satisfying and they were both developed characters. The ending was rather abrupt but was obviously setting up the second in the series.

I continue my search for a contemporary novelist who can blend characterization with a strong sense of the manners and fashions of the Georgian and Regency periods, á la Georgette Heyer.
Profile Image for Kerstin.
491 reviews
July 7, 2022
Highly recommend!
Slight, vague spoilers ahead.

I enjoyed this story! It was a simple, but sweet romance. I enjoyed the characters and their stories. I liked how the main characters brought out the best in each other. The engagement scene was cute. I felt like the "villain" part of the story wasn't resolved, which was disappointing, but maybe that continues in the series. I am looking forward to continuing the series!

Clean!
Language/profanity: none
Sex/innuendo: sweet kisses, a brief/mild description of a man who tried to take advantage of a woman
Gore/Violence: none
Dark/Creepy: none
Profile Image for iread.
827 reviews11 followers
February 19, 2025
I think this book is absolutely enchanting. It is so creative in the way it explores the characters. The heroine Lady Rosabel isn’t the typical Regency Era debutante. I enjoyed her mystery and reticence. She has a secret that is affecting every relationship in her life. What can she do when a determined duke seems to be able to see right through Rosabel’s protective shell? This author does a masterful job spinning a tale of emotional depth and humor combined. Can’t wait to read more. This is a sweet romance.
12 reviews
January 15, 2026
Good plot but feels like a first draft

I enjoyed the plot but it felt like I was reading a first draft that needed a lot of editing and proof reading. There were grammatical errors, continuity errors, paragraphs repeated… I don’t know if this was just due to it being a kindle version but it has strongly put me off reading any of the rest of the series, even though I would like to know what happens to the rest of the sisters.
If all the edits were sorted, it would be a definite 3 stars, if not 4.
58 reviews
July 10, 2021
I loved it! I laughed, teared up and laughed some more. The banter between Rosabel and Wexford was hilarious and the slow-burn nature of their romance sweet. I look forward to reading more of the series to receive some closure about the Preston situation. If its not concluded in one of the other books of the series then my review might go down a star, but other than that being open ended, the book was amazing.
Profile Image for Elizabeth.
162 reviews8 followers
August 12, 2021
Excellent romance.

This is a wonderful romance that just focuses on being a romance without any heroism. Perfect light read for a vacation. The Hero and heroine are well rounded and developed, with quirks like real people. The dialogue and story flow well with no huge jumps or unanswered questions. I really enjoyed the story of them falling in love. For readers who like authentic history in their novel this is a good one as characters stay in the historical Regency roles.
Profile Image for Crazychriss889.
1,488 reviews10 followers
August 22, 2021
I somehow did not expect this to be that good.

Very wholesome.

Could identify myself with the heroine in part.

Was only a bit disappointed with the hero ar one time during the novel. He scared her on purpose and I thought that was not a nice touch.
Plus, I think the father should have been a bit more involved here. Like, is there anyone who is thinking about her reputation? Some of the things they did would have caused quite the gossip...
599 reviews5 followers
October 31, 2022
A great clean romance

Great story! I was surprised at the way Wexford proposed, It was almost like the author realized she needed to finish the story fast. I disliked the epilogue because it was only a trailer to the next book. Epilogues should be about the couple at a later time.. definitely not about someone else entirely. Otherwise I thoroughly enjoyed the relationship developing between Rosabel & Wexford.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 120 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.