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Once Upon a Duchy #1
Grace by Contract
After her father uproots the family to the northern duchy of Brackenhurst, Grace Eldon and her four younger sisters struggle with a new life of hardship. Desperate to keep a roof over their heads amid mounting debts, she and her youngest sister seek employment in the Duke of Brackenhurst's household despite fearsome rumors.
Scarred and maimed from a terrible fire Silas Isling, Duke of Brackenhurst, buries himself in his work to avoid the stares of pity and fear. When one of the new maids shows no fear at his appearance, he is intrigued. That is until his meddling steward gives her the task of cleaning Silas' bookroom. It is a most unwelcome disruption since he prefers to be alone.
While a thief plagues his castle, an old nemesis reappears, and enemies invade in the guise of guests. Amidst the distractions and chaos, Grace brings some unexpected order. Once convinced his scars had stolen all hope for love, Silas finds his life forever changed by the quiet maid. Could she love a scarred Duke?
Inspired by Beauty and the Beast
Scarred and maimed from a terrible fire Silas Isling, Duke of Brackenhurst, buries himself in his work to avoid the stares of pity and fear. When one of the new maids shows no fear at his appearance, he is intrigued. That is until his meddling steward gives her the task of cleaning Silas' bookroom. It is a most unwelcome disruption since he prefers to be alone.
While a thief plagues his castle, an old nemesis reappears, and enemies invade in the guise of guests. Amidst the distractions and chaos, Grace brings some unexpected order. Once convinced his scars had stolen all hope for love, Silas finds his life forever changed by the quiet maid. Could she love a scarred Duke?
Inspired by Beauty and the Beast
302 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 1, 2020
72 people are currently reading
279 people want to read
About the author
Rachel Rossano
26 books454 followersRachel Rossano is a happily married mother of three children. She spends her days teaching, mothering, and keeping the chaos at bay. After the little ones are in bed, she immerses herself in the fantasy worlds of her books. Tales of romance, adventure, and virtue set in a medieval fantasy world are her preference, but she also writes speculative fantasy and a bit of science fiction.
She loves to read, discuss, and listen to comments on a wide variety of topics, both fiction and non-fiction.
She loves to read, discuss, and listen to comments on a wide variety of topics, both fiction and non-fiction.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
January 28, 2022
It's been a long time since I read a book by Rachel Rossano. Far too long. As usual, she has so much talent in weaving stories and characters that you adore.
This is a kingdom-fantasy book. It takes place in a fictional world, yet doesn't have magic or anything mythical about it. It could have taken place in our world. It's pretty cool.
This story is a take on Beauty and the Beast, and it's pretty awesome. I loved the very different take, yet so many familiar elements as well. Rossano did a great job of both making the story feel fresh, but also the same well-loved story.
The romance was sweet and developed over time. The religious aspect wasn't strong but it affected how people acted. God goes by a different name in this story-world but still seems to be the same.
The characters were vivid, diverse, and so well done. I wanted a story for each of them.
Overall, I would say that this book is a gem worth reading if you like fairy-tale retellings, sweet romances, and solid story-telling.
This is a kingdom-fantasy book. It takes place in a fictional world, yet doesn't have magic or anything mythical about it. It could have taken place in our world. It's pretty cool.
This story is a take on Beauty and the Beast, and it's pretty awesome. I loved the very different take, yet so many familiar elements as well. Rossano did a great job of both making the story feel fresh, but also the same well-loved story.
The romance was sweet and developed over time. The religious aspect wasn't strong but it affected how people acted. God goes by a different name in this story-world but still seems to be the same.
The characters were vivid, diverse, and so well done. I wanted a story for each of them.
Overall, I would say that this book is a gem worth reading if you like fairy-tale retellings, sweet romances, and solid story-telling.
December 16, 2020
I have a thing for fairytale retellings (odd when I don't know the actual fairytales, but hey...). I also have a thing for Rachel Rossano's books. So I may have squealed a little when I saw this new series in the works...
And it was so, so good! I loved Grace and her determined pluck, and Silas was an absolute dear under his gruff exterior. I especially loved watching him with the people he was closest to and who saw beyond his mask--and the way those who knew and depended on him respected him. And so many wonderful side characters! Melly, Martin, and Ori were probably my favorites, but there were so many others... There's got to be more to Faramond's story, right? There's so much lingering mystery there. And I can't be overthinking Harmony with her eleven sisters and mysterious problem, can I? I want so much more! Also, I really loved the way Beauty was described and portrayed. (Oh, and how does a certain earl of Rhynan worm his way into getting mentioned in a book that doesn't even take place in his kingdom?!? X'D)
About my only complaint was that I felt like I was missing some key information on the villians' motivations--why one character did what they did and why another character stopped short of something it seemed like they were planning to do. But the air of mystery definitely kept me guessing, and the bad guys were just--*shudders* I despise them all with a passion, and I think that's putting it mildly.
I'll be eagerly awaiting the rest of the series!
4.5 stars
Content--some kissing and touching (not detailed); mentions of a man forcing his attention on women (he doesn't get far) and slightly veiled threats/fears of more serious harm; mentions of women's reputations being compromised by being alone with a man; violence and injuries (not graphic); a woman is threatened with a knife; mentions of cursing (no words); mentions of drinking and drunkenness;
And it was so, so good! I loved Grace and her determined pluck, and Silas was an absolute dear under his gruff exterior. I especially loved watching him with the people he was closest to and who saw beyond his mask--and the way those who knew and depended on him respected him. And so many wonderful side characters! Melly, Martin, and Ori were probably my favorites, but there were so many others... There's got to be more to Faramond's story, right? There's so much lingering mystery there. And I can't be overthinking Harmony with her eleven sisters and mysterious problem, can I? I want so much more! Also, I really loved the way Beauty was described and portrayed. (Oh, and how does a certain earl of Rhynan worm his way into getting mentioned in a book that doesn't even take place in his kingdom?!? X'D)
About my only complaint was that I felt like I was missing some key information on the villians' motivations--why one character did what they did and why another character stopped short of something it seemed like they were planning to do. But the air of mystery definitely kept me guessing, and the bad guys were just--*shudders* I despise them all with a passion, and I think that's putting it mildly.
I'll be eagerly awaiting the rest of the series!
4.5 stars
Content--some kissing and touching (not detailed); mentions of a man forcing his attention on women (he doesn't get far) and slightly veiled threats/fears of more serious harm; mentions of women's reputations being compromised by being alone with a man; violence and injuries (not graphic); a woman is threatened with a knife; mentions of cursing (no words); mentions of drinking and drunkenness;
February 4, 2021
"Grace by Contract" offers an enchanting take on the beauty and the beast fairy tale!
Read full review in the 2021 February issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2021 February issue of InD'tale Magazine.
July 16, 2021
Full review: https://aristasdirectory.blogspot.com...
Suffice to say, an intriguingly sweet Kingdom Fiction romance based on Beauty and the Beast, with some (I shall assume) unintentional similarities to Pride and Prejudice.
Suffice to say, an intriguingly sweet Kingdom Fiction romance based on Beauty and the Beast, with some (I shall assume) unintentional similarities to Pride and Prejudice.
February 19, 2021
This is an absolutely lovely book! It a slow-burn love story that develops from fear and mistrust into friendship and ultimately a deep and lasting love. The only problem is I had no idea if I was reading a fantasy or a historical - and if a historical what era? There were aspects of multiple eras and just a bit of what might be fantasy which became somewhat confusing and disconcerting.
February 1, 2021
A charming re-imagining of the Beauty and the Beast story. Grace, her sisters and her father are living with her Grandmother. Dad is not a good dad. So, Grace and her sister Beauty, request a contract for employment with the Duke at his castle. The Duke, has been severely scarred by a fire in his past.
The characters in this story are both familiar and unique. I don't know what Rachel plans for her future books but if she decided to tell the stories about some of the other characters in this book, especially the friends of the Duke, I would buy them.
This is my first book written by Rachel Rossano and it won't be my last. This book feels like it is taking place in ancient times, provides flawed characters with their own strengths, fairytale bad guys and a light touch of humour. I was sad to have the book end.
The characters in this story are both familiar and unique. I don't know what Rachel plans for her future books but if she decided to tell the stories about some of the other characters in this book, especially the friends of the Duke, I would buy them.
This is my first book written by Rachel Rossano and it won't be my last. This book feels like it is taking place in ancient times, provides flawed characters with their own strengths, fairytale bad guys and a light touch of humour. I was sad to have the book end.
October 17, 2025
I read this within 24 hours. It was good. I love Rachel Rossano's style, and her characters always get to me. I'm not normally one for fairytale retellings, but I loved this. It never left me trying to figure out who was who (Always a frustrating thing) or cringing about plot changes. It was beautiful, and the slow progression of their characters was awesome.
Aside from one kiss, and a comment at the end that could be a little suggestive this book is squeaky. And even that one comment was well placed in context and didn't bother me.
The faith content was a bit lower than I expected. Aside from some mentions of God (By another name) and saying they prayed, there isn't really anything.
Overall, another great book by this author. I hope the rest of the series is as good!
November>> This book is amazing. <3
2025>> This book remains one of my favorites. I will say, one of my pet peves is when guys put their fingers on a girl's lips to shush her. I'm sure some people find that romantic, I just find it weird, and it happens 3 times in this book.
Aside from one kiss, and a comment at the end that could be a little suggestive this book is squeaky. And even that one comment was well placed in context and didn't bother me.
The faith content was a bit lower than I expected. Aside from some mentions of God (By another name) and saying they prayed, there isn't really anything.
Overall, another great book by this author. I hope the rest of the series is as good!
November>> This book is amazing. <3
2025>> This book remains one of my favorites. I will say, one of my pet peves is when guys put their fingers on a girl's lips to shush her. I'm sure some people find that romantic, I just find it weird, and it happens 3 times in this book.
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March 22, 2021Rossano's best work yet!
I love the way that from page one I was just pulled deeply into this fairy tale like story that has strong Christian values and characters that you can't help but become invested in.
I voluntarily received and reviewed a complimentary e/copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher/review company. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
I love the way that from page one I was just pulled deeply into this fairy tale like story that has strong Christian values and characters that you can't help but become invested in.
I voluntarily received and reviewed a complimentary e/copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher/review company. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
February 21, 2021
A heart-aching tale of pain and loss, this romance made me feel sad as Grace and her sisters struggle to keep their heads above water in the wake of their father's degenerate behaviour. Fear for her younger sister drives Grace to offer themselves up as servants in exchange for lack of tribute at Brackenhurst castle. The Duke is widely known as being a terrifying man, but unlike most people, Grace doesn't see the scars but the man behind the visage. When the terms of a contract are agreed upon, Grace and Beauty are installed in at the castle but meet with resistance and spite even before they begin. However, Silas' Bailiff and Faramond, both his servants and his friends, immediately see the advantages that Grace can bring to the castle and deftly move her into the position of scribe and reader. As Grace and Silas spend time together, awareness and appreciation for one another grow, until it becomes evident to the other members of the household there are feelings between them. Unwanted visitors bring new difficulties to be thwarted and betrayal from within manifests itself, forcing Silas out of the shadows to come to Grace and her sisters' aid. This romance is well written and engrossing and comes to a good conclusion as the miscreants receive their just reward. Silas is a grumpy and imperfect hero, but his healer and two good friends have no compunction about telling him the truth and forcing him to adjust his thinking. Grace's caring nature is born out of having to take the reins in her family for so long and she gives Silas the same kind of attention, thereby winning the admiration of those closest to Silas, but also making her enemies. I received this book for free from eBook Discovery. I voluntarily post this review. This is my honest review.
March 2, 2021
I have a soft spot for fairytale retellings. The author has done a wonderful job with this homage to Beauty and the Beast. This book hit all the classic tropes without using a single cliche.
Silas, Duke of Brakenhurst. He has been scarred by fire and grief. He is gruff and hard, preferring the company of only a few trusted retainers. Though by his nature he tends to avoid everyone, he is a good master wanting to do well by those who man his castle and estates. In truth, he probably is a bit too soft.
Grace finds herself the protector of her four sisters after her mother’s death. Her father is useless and detrimental to his family, so it falls to her to sacrifice to save her youngest sister from a rogue knight. Bargaining to become a servant in the Duke’s household should be the way to do that. Still, the Duke has enemies, even inside his own household and it may be that he can’t keep any of them safe.
Grace is the perfect foil for the duke. While he sees his scars as a liability that shows weakness to his enemies, she sees them as the source of the inner strength that she will come to rely on.
This book is filled with chivalry and scoundrels; spies, intrigues, and machinations; heroic rescues, and an over-enthusiastic puppy who is the true star of the tale. Okay, maybe not the star, but he does manage to steal a few hearts, including the reader’s. This book is a fantastic addition to our featured Romantic Interludes list. I am looking forward to the new books in the series.
Silas, Duke of Brakenhurst. He has been scarred by fire and grief. He is gruff and hard, preferring the company of only a few trusted retainers. Though by his nature he tends to avoid everyone, he is a good master wanting to do well by those who man his castle and estates. In truth, he probably is a bit too soft.
Grace finds herself the protector of her four sisters after her mother’s death. Her father is useless and detrimental to his family, so it falls to her to sacrifice to save her youngest sister from a rogue knight. Bargaining to become a servant in the Duke’s household should be the way to do that. Still, the Duke has enemies, even inside his own household and it may be that he can’t keep any of them safe.
Grace is the perfect foil for the duke. While he sees his scars as a liability that shows weakness to his enemies, she sees them as the source of the inner strength that she will come to rely on.
This book is filled with chivalry and scoundrels; spies, intrigues, and machinations; heroic rescues, and an over-enthusiastic puppy who is the true star of the tale. Okay, maybe not the star, but he does manage to steal a few hearts, including the reader’s. This book is a fantastic addition to our featured Romantic Interludes list. I am looking forward to the new books in the series.
March 2, 2022
I'm torn
This is well written in the sense of flow and technique. I liked the pace and the main characters. But, I took issue with a few things. There was very little relationship development going on between the two main characters. They spent a lot of time together, he was attentive in watching out for her, but they hardly ever talked for the sake of getting to know each other. In short, there's no emotional build up that makes you want them to get together in the end. I got to 70% before realizing that this wasn't going to change, took a break, and never felt pulled back into the story.
This may be a minor thing but it kept getting brought up and it bugged me. There's so much weight given to her reputation, by herself and by others, but she was the lowest of the low as far as maids went. I highly doubt anyone would have cared that much, and if anything, wouldn't have thought twice even if the master did dally with the help. Not saying she shouldn't care about her own reputation, but there was just a little too much emphasis put on it, to the point that it felt incongruous with the story.
I'm disappointed, not because the story was bad, but because it had so much potential and just fell a little flat for me.
This is well written in the sense of flow and technique. I liked the pace and the main characters. But, I took issue with a few things. There was very little relationship development going on between the two main characters. They spent a lot of time together, he was attentive in watching out for her, but they hardly ever talked for the sake of getting to know each other. In short, there's no emotional build up that makes you want them to get together in the end. I got to 70% before realizing that this wasn't going to change, took a break, and never felt pulled back into the story.
This may be a minor thing but it kept getting brought up and it bugged me. There's so much weight given to her reputation, by herself and by others, but she was the lowest of the low as far as maids went. I highly doubt anyone would have cared that much, and if anything, wouldn't have thought twice even if the master did dally with the help. Not saying she shouldn't care about her own reputation, but there was just a little too much emphasis put on it, to the point that it felt incongruous with the story.
I'm disappointed, not because the story was bad, but because it had so much potential and just fell a little flat for me.
February 22, 2021
This book really gives a flavour of what it was like to live in the past, even though it is set in a fictional country. The people employed to work for the duke and the lives of his tenants are all described. Silas, Duke of Brackenhurst is scarred from a previous incident in his life. He enjoys peace and quiet. Grace, one of his tenants, lives with her sisters and father in their grandmother’s house. Grace is very protective of her sisters and with good reason, given her father’s actions. When Grace comes to work in the castle her skills bring her into regular contact with Silas. They gradually develop feelings for each other but Grace is so much below his station in life. There are a number of enemies that are out to cause trouble. This was an entertaining read that I enjoyed very much. I received a copy via eBooks Discovery and have voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
December 22, 2021
Lovely Beauty and the Beast style retelling with great conflict and fun takes on the characters. Great animal sidekicks and well-developed sibling relationships. I had a lot of fun reading this one.
March 25, 2022
A gently-paced read that is sweet and endearing!
February 5, 2022
I was randomly craving a medieval read and this delivered for sure.
Grace indentures herself to work for Silas since her father can't pay his due. Her motivation is to pay off the family debts, try to generate income for her sisters back home and also protect her youngest sister by also taking her into the duke's keep. What ensues is her navigating working for the duke while fighting their burgeoning attraction.
What I liked:
- Medieval! For some reason, medieval novels feel ultra escapist. They don't read the same as historical romances since the language and lifestyle is so different, and I was all for it.
- Grace felt super well developed and was also a likable character.
- Ditto for Silas.
- Loved the romance. It was pretty sweet how Silas drew closer to Grace. It also felt super grounded as Grace fights her feelings on account of their class disparity.
- Really enjoyed Grace's sisters as well. Not so much the youngest, Beauty, but I do like that everyone felt pretty fleshed out.
What I didn't like:
All of my grievances boil down to the same thing, which is loose threads! There is so much that felt unresolved.
- The housekeeper is super cruel. She's starves her workers, is pretty violent and lashes out often. Grace inexplicably earns her ire. And it's never explained why. From the moment Grace starts working for the duke, the housekeeper hates her and is cruel to her. It seems the housekeeper hates Grace because she thinks that Grace is trying to trap Silas, but this doesn't seem to be the entire story since the housekeeper mistreated Grace from literal minute one - way before Silas started favouring Grace.
- It then turns out that the housekeeper (I forgot her name clearly) was colluding with Sir Webb, but again we never find out why!
- It also seems crazy that Silas didn't realise that his housekeeper was deranged for so long since her seems to be very involved but whatever.
- The random plot thread of the Duke of Greenwood (?). He visits, clearly for nefarious reasons, is eventually found out and is kicked out, but what happened after that? Did he continue the his evil plot? Why was Sir Webb involved?
The romance was A-plus but everything else felt very half-baked and sloppy, hence 3 stars.
Grace indentures herself to work for Silas since her father can't pay his due. Her motivation is to pay off the family debts, try to generate income for her sisters back home and also protect her youngest sister by also taking her into the duke's keep. What ensues is her navigating working for the duke while fighting their burgeoning attraction.
What I liked:
- Medieval! For some reason, medieval novels feel ultra escapist. They don't read the same as historical romances since the language and lifestyle is so different, and I was all for it.
- Grace felt super well developed and was also a likable character.
- Ditto for Silas.
- Loved the romance. It was pretty sweet how Silas drew closer to Grace. It also felt super grounded as Grace fights her feelings on account of their class disparity.
- Really enjoyed Grace's sisters as well. Not so much the youngest, Beauty, but I do like that everyone felt pretty fleshed out.
What I didn't like:
All of my grievances boil down to the same thing, which is loose threads! There is so much that felt unresolved.
- The housekeeper is super cruel. She's starves her workers, is pretty violent and lashes out often. Grace inexplicably earns her ire. And it's never explained why. From the moment Grace starts working for the duke, the housekeeper hates her and is cruel to her. It seems the housekeeper hates Grace because she thinks that Grace is trying to trap Silas, but this doesn't seem to be the entire story since the housekeeper mistreated Grace from literal minute one - way before Silas started favouring Grace.
- It then turns out that the housekeeper (I forgot her name clearly) was colluding with Sir Webb, but again we never find out why!
- It also seems crazy that Silas didn't realise that his housekeeper was deranged for so long since her seems to be very involved but whatever.
- The random plot thread of the Duke of Greenwood (?). He visits, clearly for nefarious reasons, is eventually found out and is kicked out, but what happened after that? Did he continue the his evil plot? Why was Sir Webb involved?
The romance was A-plus but everything else felt very half-baked and sloppy, hence 3 stars.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 9, 2022
It dragged and I got stuck about 70% into the book. I did finish it but didn't love this book because the story was so slow & i lost interest.
November 26, 2023
This one is hard for me to rate. I have had this sitting around for awhile. I was interested enough to have it, but it never made it to the top of my list. I finally picked it up because I thought I wouldn't like it. I could start it, be like nope not for me, quit reading, and successfully have made my pile be one book shorter.
I realized by the end of the first two chapters that wasn't the case. I was enjoying the story and that's never a bad thing.
So to start I genuinely enjoyed probably 90% of this book. This historical/fantasy combo was interesting. Grace and Silas were nice characters. I found myself thoroughly enjoying what was going on and wanting to know what would happen next.
The 10% I didn't like makes it difficult despite being a low percentage of things/time I was unhappy. BECAUSE it was at the end(mostly).
There's a lot going on in this book and a lot of hat tips to other fairy tale retellings(that may or may not show up in later books). But when we get to the end there's a few problems I had.
#1 Lack of resolution
We have this whole plot point dedicated to another duke who invites himself over and is a tool the whole time. He's plotting something, but ends up leaving, and if there's more about that whole thing it's not in this book.
The housekeeper is absolutely evil for the entire book. She's actually a bigger problem then the guy we're supposed to worry about. I hated how her part in the story got resolved.
#2 Silas has his head in the clouds
Silas is in many ways a well-written character that it's easy to connect with. But for some reason the man is totally oblivious. The housekeeper is a holy terror that is starving and abusing the staff. And both of the men on staff above her know it. Why is Silas out to lunch? It's kind of unbelievable that he notices that Grace is having a rough go of it and helps her out, when the rest of the staff has been getting mistreated for who knows how long and he's never noticed.
Also how do you respect a guy who lets a woman that is abusive run his household? Sure he didn't know, but that just tells you he was doing a crummy job of running things. Near the end Faramond and the other guy are like, "The staff will perform so much better now." And Silas is like, oh was it not going well before? The men are staring... um, no, it was awful. Haven't you noticed the dirty linens, the subpar food, the lackluster cleaning, etc?
While it wouldn't be acceptable for Silas to notice all this and let it stand, I can't say that having him being so out of touch that he doesn't notice what's going on under his own nose for years is any better.
#3 Romance ending
I felt like the end was rushed for the romance as well. Like Silas was like, oh I can't ask her to marry me because of the rank difference she'll feel like she has to say yes. This is a pretty good observation for him. But then shortly after he just
It also felt rushed on her end because it felt like she was just starting to come around to the idea.
Also, she spent most of the book acting kind of uncomfortable around him. And I wanted to see a progression from that point not a sudden shift.
In conclusion, I enjoyed reading most of the book but at the end I had some things that didn't wrap up at all or well and it took me from a great feeling for most of the book to a really low note at the end. Hence the confliction in how I felt overall.
I realized by the end of the first two chapters that wasn't the case. I was enjoying the story and that's never a bad thing.
So to start I genuinely enjoyed probably 90% of this book. This historical/fantasy combo was interesting. Grace and Silas were nice characters. I found myself thoroughly enjoying what was going on and wanting to know what would happen next.
The 10% I didn't like makes it difficult despite being a low percentage of things/time I was unhappy. BECAUSE it was at the end(mostly).
There's a lot going on in this book and a lot of hat tips to other fairy tale retellings(that may or may not show up in later books). But when we get to the end there's a few problems I had.
#1 Lack of resolution
We have this whole plot point dedicated to another duke who invites himself over and is a tool the whole time. He's plotting something, but ends up leaving, and if there's more about that whole thing it's not in this book.
The housekeeper is absolutely evil for the entire book. She's actually a bigger problem then the guy we're supposed to worry about. I hated how her part in the story got resolved.
#2 Silas has his head in the clouds
Silas is in many ways a well-written character that it's easy to connect with. But for some reason the man is totally oblivious. The housekeeper is a holy terror that is starving and abusing the staff. And both of the men on staff above her know it. Why is Silas out to lunch? It's kind of unbelievable that he notices that Grace is having a rough go of it and helps her out, when the rest of the staff has been getting mistreated for who knows how long and he's never noticed.
Also how do you respect a guy who lets a woman that is abusive run his household? Sure he didn't know, but that just tells you he was doing a crummy job of running things. Near the end Faramond and the other guy are like, "The staff will perform so much better now." And Silas is like, oh was it not going well before? The men are staring... um, no, it was awful. Haven't you noticed the dirty linens, the subpar food, the lackluster cleaning, etc?
While it wouldn't be acceptable for Silas to notice all this and let it stand, I can't say that having him being so out of touch that he doesn't notice what's going on under his own nose for years is any better.
#3 Romance ending
I felt like the end was rushed for the romance as well. Like Silas was like, oh I can't ask her to marry me because of the rank difference she'll feel like she has to say yes. This is a pretty good observation for him. But then shortly after he just
It also felt rushed on her end because it felt like she was just starting to come around to the idea.
Also, she spent most of the book acting kind of uncomfortable around him. And I wanted to see a progression from that point not a sudden shift.
In conclusion, I enjoyed reading most of the book but at the end I had some things that didn't wrap up at all or well and it took me from a great feeling for most of the book to a really low note at the end. Hence the confliction in how I felt overall.
December 17, 2020
“Grace by Contract” (Once Upon a Duchy, #1) by Rachel Rossano. “Loving the Book” asked for reviewers that would be willing to read the first book in a new series by Rachel Rossano. I received an advanced reading copy on December 6th and finished on December 16! I did not want this story to end…
Grace and her younger sister, Beauty, go to settle the debt of their grandmother, Patience Faye. They do not have any money to pay the debt. Even if Lord Brackenhurst would forgive the debt, they still needed to find work. “Indenture” was possible, they would work off the debt. One year would pay off the debt, a five-year contract would include a salary. In return they will be given 2 meals a day, a place to sleep and clothing. They would also be working within walls of the castle, which would provide protection. Grace worries that Lord Brackenhurst will find out about her father’s unsavory business practices, which is the main reason they are in debt! Grace also wants to make sure that her sister, Beauty, is safe from Sir Webb. Bronwick, the head Mistress, makes the workload almost unbearable for Grace. Grace is not getting two meals a day as she was told she would. Faramond, a good friend of Lord Brackenhurst, recognizes Grace. He remembers that Grace kept her father’s records, she was very organized. Grace is given another assignment, to organize the ledgers for Lord Brackenhurst. Mistress Bronwick tries even harder to cause trouble for Grace.
This is a whirlwind story of how Lord Brackenhurst governs his people. He is a very kind and fair leader. There are those that work for him that take advantage of his kindness. Duke Greenwood has pledged his daughter, Lady Longmere, to marry Lord Brackenhurst. Lord Brackenhurst is not interested in Duke Greenwood’s plan to take over other lands, or marry his daughter!
I would love to read book #2 when it comes out! This story is like a Netflix series, you wait with anticipation to see where the next episode takes you!
Grace and her younger sister, Beauty, go to settle the debt of their grandmother, Patience Faye. They do not have any money to pay the debt. Even if Lord Brackenhurst would forgive the debt, they still needed to find work. “Indenture” was possible, they would work off the debt. One year would pay off the debt, a five-year contract would include a salary. In return they will be given 2 meals a day, a place to sleep and clothing. They would also be working within walls of the castle, which would provide protection. Grace worries that Lord Brackenhurst will find out about her father’s unsavory business practices, which is the main reason they are in debt! Grace also wants to make sure that her sister, Beauty, is safe from Sir Webb. Bronwick, the head Mistress, makes the workload almost unbearable for Grace. Grace is not getting two meals a day as she was told she would. Faramond, a good friend of Lord Brackenhurst, recognizes Grace. He remembers that Grace kept her father’s records, she was very organized. Grace is given another assignment, to organize the ledgers for Lord Brackenhurst. Mistress Bronwick tries even harder to cause trouble for Grace.
This is a whirlwind story of how Lord Brackenhurst governs his people. He is a very kind and fair leader. There are those that work for him that take advantage of his kindness. Duke Greenwood has pledged his daughter, Lady Longmere, to marry Lord Brackenhurst. Lord Brackenhurst is not interested in Duke Greenwood’s plan to take over other lands, or marry his daughter!
I would love to read book #2 when it comes out! This story is like a Netflix series, you wait with anticipation to see where the next episode takes you!
December 13, 2020
Debt hangs heavy over Grace's head, and she is desperate to protect her youngest sister from a lecherous friend of their father. She indentures herself to the Duke of Brakenhurst, hopeful to find safety. Her skills at reading and writing soon make her invaluable to the Duke, who is not as beastly as his reputation had led her to believe. But danger is just around the corner, waiting for her to take the wrong step.
From the cover, I was expecting a medieval tale based more in history, so I was surprised when there was no date for me to place the story. I didn't realize this Beauty and the Beast retelling was a fantasy, no magic but not set in our history. Even though it was not what I thought it would be, it was still enjoyable.
The tale alternates between Grace and Silas, the Duke of Brakenhurst. Both have had difficult lives. Silas is scared from a fire where he lost his sister. Grace's father was revealed as a thief and brought the family down in the world. Trust does not come easily for either one. Watching them slowly fall for each other made for a pleasant afternoon.
The story is well told, and I liked the details that I DID recognize from history. Readers who are looking for a fairy tale retelling that is creatively, if not historically accurately, told, I would recommend this.
I received a free copy through Loving the Book for reviewing purposes. All opinions expressed are my own.
From the cover, I was expecting a medieval tale based more in history, so I was surprised when there was no date for me to place the story. I didn't realize this Beauty and the Beast retelling was a fantasy, no magic but not set in our history. Even though it was not what I thought it would be, it was still enjoyable.
The tale alternates between Grace and Silas, the Duke of Brakenhurst. Both have had difficult lives. Silas is scared from a fire where he lost his sister. Grace's father was revealed as a thief and brought the family down in the world. Trust does not come easily for either one. Watching them slowly fall for each other made for a pleasant afternoon.
The story is well told, and I liked the details that I DID recognize from history. Readers who are looking for a fairy tale retelling that is creatively, if not historically accurately, told, I would recommend this.
I received a free copy through Loving the Book for reviewing purposes. All opinions expressed are my own.
September 5, 2021
Squeaky Clean romance
I really liked this book. It had a compelling story and I was invested in Grace and the Duke. The romance is very slow burn and rather than being like Beauty and the Beast as the blurb claims, it's more of a medieval Rebecca ( except without the age gap and emotional abuse). The villains are extremely hateable.
Some things that I think could be improved are
-The two main characters have very similar inner voices and the rest of the characters within the castle, while likeable, don't have terribly distinct personalities.
-The villains, while hateable, are a little shallow and nondescript. They're just bad guys because they're bad guys. One of them has potential to have a deeper reasons for why they are the way they are, but it's never developed.
-The duke is far too passive in the running of his household. He allows gross neglect and abuse and, while he mentions that he'll deal with it, he never really does until it's too late.
-Beauty is a confusing character. I felt that 18 was an unrealistic age for the way she acts, but by the end I decided she must be mentally stunted in some way.
-The romance is cute, but the characters could have stood more detailed scenes together.
It's a great HEA/satisfying book. Because of its slower pace and just the general structure I would have to say that it does not have strong reread value, but It was quite good for a one time read.
I really liked this book. It had a compelling story and I was invested in Grace and the Duke. The romance is very slow burn and rather than being like Beauty and the Beast as the blurb claims, it's more of a medieval Rebecca ( except without the age gap and emotional abuse). The villains are extremely hateable.
Some things that I think could be improved are
-The two main characters have very similar inner voices and the rest of the characters within the castle, while likeable, don't have terribly distinct personalities.
-The villains, while hateable, are a little shallow and nondescript. They're just bad guys because they're bad guys. One of them has potential to have a deeper reasons for why they are the way they are, but it's never developed.
-The duke is far too passive in the running of his household. He allows gross neglect and abuse and, while he mentions that he'll deal with it, he never really does until it's too late.
-Beauty is a confusing character. I felt that 18 was an unrealistic age for the way she acts, but by the end I decided she must be mentally stunted in some way.
-The romance is cute, but the characters could have stood more detailed scenes together.
It's a great HEA/satisfying book. Because of its slower pace and just the general structure I would have to say that it does not have strong reread value, but It was quite good for a one time read.
December 18, 2020
This fantasy with its medieval feel to it, Grace Under Contract is an interesting romance full of intrigue and suspense.
Grace’s father, after pulling some shenanigans that put his family in a bad situation, moves his five daughters in the hovel of a home with their grandmother. Instead of working the farm to provide for his family and pay the taxes on the grandmother’s property, he spends most of his income at the local pub. He befriends and becomes beholden to Sir Webb who is after one of the daughters named Beauty. She is beautiful, but not overly intelligent. To cover the tax shortfall, Grace convinces Duke Silas’s steward to agree to a contract of indenture for both her and Beauty—her to cover the debt; Beauty to keep her out of the clutches of Sir Webb.
I enjoyed the growing relationship between Grace and Silas with his scars and disability. Never a dull moment with the vindictive housekeeper, the neighboring duke with political ambitions who wishes to cement a treaty with Silas through marriage with one of his daughters, and the spy who somehow breeches the castle’s defenses to steal food and weaken the duchy from within.
The tension was high, the action was engaging, the romance was sweet, and there were some surprises at the end that made this a must-read story.
Grace’s father, after pulling some shenanigans that put his family in a bad situation, moves his five daughters in the hovel of a home with their grandmother. Instead of working the farm to provide for his family and pay the taxes on the grandmother’s property, he spends most of his income at the local pub. He befriends and becomes beholden to Sir Webb who is after one of the daughters named Beauty. She is beautiful, but not overly intelligent. To cover the tax shortfall, Grace convinces Duke Silas’s steward to agree to a contract of indenture for both her and Beauty—her to cover the debt; Beauty to keep her out of the clutches of Sir Webb.
I enjoyed the growing relationship between Grace and Silas with his scars and disability. Never a dull moment with the vindictive housekeeper, the neighboring duke with political ambitions who wishes to cement a treaty with Silas through marriage with one of his daughters, and the spy who somehow breeches the castle’s defenses to steal food and weaken the duchy from within.
The tension was high, the action was engaging, the romance was sweet, and there were some surprises at the end that made this a must-read story.
January 18, 2021
Wow, this book was a very interesting take on the Beauty and the Beast tale. You could tell right off that the main characters really needed each other. Silas needed someone who would fix his sour mood/temper he had at times. Grace well she really needed someone to actually care about her.
I❤LOVE how the author didn't have just his temper as his main characteristic. Silas actually cared and didn't care if anyone knew about it. I felt so bad for Grace and her situation. You would think it would of gotten better at the castle for her, but she was treated just as bad probably worse by one of the staff.
I also ❤LOVE how a dog fit into this story and even helped one of the main characters out more than once. You will have to read it to find out though. I am not spoiling even though I really want to, because I really ❤LOVED that part. This book you will not want to stop reading, because once you think it has slowed down something happens that you have to read on to find out about. I most defiently recommend this book
**** Disclaimer I recieved a free copy of this book to review from the author. All opinions and thoughts are my own and I was not obligated to like or dislike this book.I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising
I❤LOVE how the author didn't have just his temper as his main characteristic. Silas actually cared and didn't care if anyone knew about it. I felt so bad for Grace and her situation. You would think it would of gotten better at the castle for her, but she was treated just as bad probably worse by one of the staff.
I also ❤LOVE how a dog fit into this story and even helped one of the main characters out more than once. You will have to read it to find out though. I am not spoiling even though I really want to, because I really ❤LOVED that part. This book you will not want to stop reading, because once you think it has slowed down something happens that you have to read on to find out about. I most defiently recommend this book
**** Disclaimer I recieved a free copy of this book to review from the author. All opinions and thoughts are my own and I was not obligated to like or dislike this book.I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising
January 30, 2021
Love by Choice
Partially deformed and severely scarred by a castle fire, Silas Wolfgang Isling, Duke of Brackenhurst, still actively manages the affairs of his duchy while keeping himself aloof from all but two very close friends. His life is about to get better, before it gets so much worse.
In the absence of her often drunk fugitive father, and as the oldest of five sisters, the responsibility of tenant survival falls upon Grace Eldon. Her life is about to get so much worse before it gets better.
Grace by Contract is an engrossing and entertaining read. I was so absorbed in the story, I truly resented each time I was interrupted.
Rachel Rossano is a very good writer with a good sense of timing and event pacing. Also, the plot is tightly woven and all of the characters are well developed and diverse. In addition to some emotional moments, there are some dangerous moments and even some smile-worthy humor. Although the ending is sweet, I think Ms. Rossano should have included an epilogue.
Content 411: There is no swearing or sex in this book. However, there is some violence and some bullying.
Partially deformed and severely scarred by a castle fire, Silas Wolfgang Isling, Duke of Brackenhurst, still actively manages the affairs of his duchy while keeping himself aloof from all but two very close friends. His life is about to get better, before it gets so much worse.
In the absence of her often drunk fugitive father, and as the oldest of five sisters, the responsibility of tenant survival falls upon Grace Eldon. Her life is about to get so much worse before it gets better.
Grace by Contract is an engrossing and entertaining read. I was so absorbed in the story, I truly resented each time I was interrupted.
Rachel Rossano is a very good writer with a good sense of timing and event pacing. Also, the plot is tightly woven and all of the characters are well developed and diverse. In addition to some emotional moments, there are some dangerous moments and even some smile-worthy humor. Although the ending is sweet, I think Ms. Rossano should have included an epilogue.
Content 411: There is no swearing or sex in this book. However, there is some violence and some bullying.
December 11, 2020
I haven't read a Rachel Rossano book yet that I haven't loved. I've read several more than once. She transports me to that time and place and I become enmeshed in the lives of the characters.
This story felt like a bunch of fairy tales rolled into one! There is Beauty and the Beast, only Beauty doesn't get the beast! Twelve Dancing Princesses was in there but they weren't cursed to dance, it was just 12 Princesses with a very greedy father. There was also a hint of Cinderella as well - the very poor girl who works hard to keep her family together gets the Duke.
Grace is a wonderful character with Christian attributes that I so appreciated. She has a gentle, kind, and humble spirit. Simon, the Duke, is also a good man. No, he won't lose his scars, but he doesn't let them keep him from being there for Grace and despite her efforts to hold him at arms length, he can't help but to show her how much he cares for her which ultimately extends to her family (well, not the father, he's a scoundrel).
Just an overall good clean story that made me feel good!
This story felt like a bunch of fairy tales rolled into one! There is Beauty and the Beast, only Beauty doesn't get the beast! Twelve Dancing Princesses was in there but they weren't cursed to dance, it was just 12 Princesses with a very greedy father. There was also a hint of Cinderella as well - the very poor girl who works hard to keep her family together gets the Duke.
Grace is a wonderful character with Christian attributes that I so appreciated. She has a gentle, kind, and humble spirit. Simon, the Duke, is also a good man. No, he won't lose his scars, but he doesn't let them keep him from being there for Grace and despite her efforts to hold him at arms length, he can't help but to show her how much he cares for her which ultimately extends to her family (well, not the father, he's a scoundrel).
Just an overall good clean story that made me feel good!
February 25, 2021
Grace Eldon was a daughter of a merchant who lost everything for his family and took them to their grandmother’s home to live. Since they were poor they did not have the proper payment of good so Grace indentured her and her sister to the Duke.
Silas Isling, Duke of Brackenhurst is a caring man who hides behind his scars and does not correct everyone’s assumptions about him. He prefers his solitude until Grace comes along.
I liked the main characters they were feisty and entertaining to read about. They also were people who wanted to do good for others. The author did a good job with the evil characters too because it was really easy to dislike them and want to see them punished for their bad deeds. I only guessed a couple of the events but not all of them. The book kept me entertained. Since it says it is book number one in the series I am curious to see what happens in the books that are yet to come in this series.
I received this book for free from eBook Discovery. I voluntarily review this book. This is my honest review. The opinions in this review are 100% my own
Silas Isling, Duke of Brackenhurst is a caring man who hides behind his scars and does not correct everyone’s assumptions about him. He prefers his solitude until Grace comes along.
I liked the main characters they were feisty and entertaining to read about. They also were people who wanted to do good for others. The author did a good job with the evil characters too because it was really easy to dislike them and want to see them punished for their bad deeds. I only guessed a couple of the events but not all of them. The book kept me entertained. Since it says it is book number one in the series I am curious to see what happens in the books that are yet to come in this series.
I received this book for free from eBook Discovery. I voluntarily review this book. This is my honest review. The opinions in this review are 100% my own
February 19, 2021
With her father unable to pay his debt to the duke, Grace and her sister Beauty are indentured by contract for five years. Grace is also relieved to get Beauty away from a lecherous baron. The housekeeper takes an immediate dislike to both sisters and gives them the hardest jobs. Unlike other women, Grace doesn't shy away from looking at the scarred duke Sebastian which intrigues him. With Grace's skills at reading and writing, she soon becomes Sebastian's scribe. When unexpected visitors arrive at the keep, Grace realizes that there is still danger. I received a free copy of this ebook from eBook Discovery. This is my honest and voluntarily given review. I love this medieval version of Beauty and the Beast. I love the respect and the friendship that grew between Grace and Sebastian. I also appreciate that this is a clean romance. This is a book that I enjoyed reading, but I hated it to end.
March 5, 2021
A scarred duke. A merchant’s daughter. And a contract.
Grace by Contract is a sweet tale of two completely different people coming together through a contract between master and servant. The reader is pulled into the story with the author’s great attention to detail. You can’t help but admire Grace’s strength when it comes to protecting those she loves and going to great lengths to help provide for her family.
There were times when the story dragged because there were scenes that didn’t necessarily need to be included to progress the story and the romance. However, I do love all the world building the author did to make such a realistic and believable world. I really appreciate when writers take time to lay everything out like Rachel Rossano did to further engage their reader.
Fans of fairy tales and romance novels will love Rossano’s Grace by Contract. If you love sweet fairy tales and romance, this is a great read for you.
Grace by Contract is a sweet tale of two completely different people coming together through a contract between master and servant. The reader is pulled into the story with the author’s great attention to detail. You can’t help but admire Grace’s strength when it comes to protecting those she loves and going to great lengths to help provide for her family.
There were times when the story dragged because there were scenes that didn’t necessarily need to be included to progress the story and the romance. However, I do love all the world building the author did to make such a realistic and believable world. I really appreciate when writers take time to lay everything out like Rachel Rossano did to further engage their reader.
Fans of fairy tales and romance novels will love Rossano’s Grace by Contract. If you love sweet fairy tales and romance, this is a great read for you.
October 21, 2024
This charming medieval-style romance is a twist on Beauty and the Beast. However, Beauty is not the asset to the story; she’s actually a major liability. And the ugly lord Duke Silas is not cruel and hostile; he actually longs for true friends. When his right-hand man comments, “You really are a strange man, my lord,” that lord merely snorts and replies, “You are just noticing this now?” We have to agree.
Other characters add turns to the story. Grace may be the scrubber woman, but she really is a capable and educated gentlewoman. Master Ori may be a manservant, but he has the heart of a knight and the competence of a medic. And the knight? Well, you’ll have to read the book to learn about that scoundrel!
This is another fun fantasy from Rachel Rossano who loves to reconfigure our favorite fairytales.
Other characters add turns to the story. Grace may be the scrubber woman, but she really is a capable and educated gentlewoman. Master Ori may be a manservant, but he has the heart of a knight and the competence of a medic. And the knight? Well, you’ll have to read the book to learn about that scoundrel!
This is another fun fantasy from Rachel Rossano who loves to reconfigure our favorite fairytales.
January 31, 2021
Set in a pseudo medieval kingdom, Grace is forced by impoverishment to indenture herself and her sister Beauty to the Duke of Brackenhurst. The duke has been scarred and maimed in an earlier mysterious accident which also killed his sister. Grace's family, composed of herself, four sisters, an ailing grandmother, and a drunken father, has fallen on hard times; the father is considering selling the youngest daughter to evil Sir Webb, who is an enemy of the duke. The novel has a tight story line with interesting secondary characters and a sweet love story. Since this is the first in a new series, I hope we meet some of these other characters in later books. I received this book for free from eBook Discovery. I voluntarily review this book. This is my honest review.
July 12, 2023
or what I would have expected
Although this book is supposed to be related to the story of Beauty and the Beast, I saw many differences. Indeed the “Beasts” are not who one might expect nor the “Beauty” either for that matter.
One thing that is a bother sometimes since i like to read every word are some of the grammatical errors. Nevertheless if one tries one can interpret what the author must have meant.
The story is contagious and easy to read once one gets used to the jumping back and forth between the two main characters.
Overall I felt the book told a very interesting story and had a good enough presentation of evil deeds can bring one down no matter one’s status. A good story to read
Although this book is supposed to be related to the story of Beauty and the Beast, I saw many differences. Indeed the “Beasts” are not who one might expect nor the “Beauty” either for that matter.
One thing that is a bother sometimes since i like to read every word are some of the grammatical errors. Nevertheless if one tries one can interpret what the author must have meant.
The story is contagious and easy to read once one gets used to the jumping back and forth between the two main characters.
Overall I felt the book told a very interesting story and had a good enough presentation of evil deeds can bring one down no matter one’s status. A good story to read
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