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The Duke's Estates #1
The Duke Who Loved Me
Fans of Bridgerton will fall in love with this sparkling Regency romance from bestselling author Jane Ashford featuring: A duke accustomed to getting his own way A lady determined to teach him a thing or two about love Delicious opposites-attract romance Glittering detail and banter First in a new series! James Cantrell, the new Duke of Tereford, has inherited a dukedom in disarray and is overwhelmed by his unaccustomed responsibilities. Then he gets an idea. Cecelia Vainsmede served as liaison between James and her father, and she knows a great deal about business matters, his own in particular. She's also quite pretty. Ever the pragmatist, he suggests a marriage of convenience. Cecelia has always been good at working with James, but she doesn't understand how he can be so obtuse. He clearly doesn't realize that he's the duke she's always wished for, or that his offer is an insult. But when a German prince arrives in London and immediately sets out to woo Cecelia, James will have to come to terms with what he really feels for her. Is running away worth the cost of losing her, or will the duke dare to win her once and for all? Praise for Jane Ashford's historical romances: "Humor, drama, mystery, romance, intrigue, and a surprising ending. I can't wait to read the other books in the series."― Harlequin Junkie Top Pick for How to Cross a Marquess "[A]n irresistibly sweet literary confection."― Booklist for Earl to the Rescue "Filled with wit and charm."― Fresh Fiction for Nothing Like a Duke
288 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published August 24, 2021
168 people are currently reading
529 people want to read
About the author
Jane Ashford
52 books401 followersJane Ashford has written historical and contemporary romances. Her books have been published in England, Spain, France, Italy, Sweden, Slovakia, Denmark, Russia, and Latvia, Croatia and Slovenia as well as the U.S. She was nominated for a Career Achievement Award by RT Book Reviews. Her latest book, Lost Time, is romantic suspense with a touch of magic.
Her website is https://www.janeashford.com/ and her Facebook page is https://www.facebook.com/JaneAshfordW... If you'd like to subscribe to Jane's monthly newsletter go to www.eepurl.com/cd-O7r and sign up.
Her website is https://www.janeashford.com/ and her Facebook page is https://www.facebook.com/JaneAshfordW... If you'd like to subscribe to Jane's monthly newsletter go to www.eepurl.com/cd-O7r and sign up.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 138 reviews
September 2, 2021
The hero was such a baby that I didn't want him to win the heroine. The plot had little structure and it was boring. Technically this was a slow burn but the chemistry and tension was not there. There was 1 underwhelming, under written sex scene and that was it. was This was my first Jane Ashford Book and it was not the best first impression, even Rosalyn Landor's narrator was even bland.
August 27, 2021
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an advance review copy! It's out now (released Tuesday).
I have read all of the books in the two series by Jane Ashford and now the start of this one. It is a spin-off with some of the same characters. I have not read many of her standalone stories that she wrote before the series, but I understand why she might have had so many. Each one of her books is unique and feels totally different than another book in the same series. I do enjoy getting to know the secondary characters and, in some cases, introduced to future main characters. Since her books are so different, I absolutely love some and care for others less; but I definitely plan to continue reading all of her future releases.
This one had a hero who was completely self-absorbed. That is not my favorite hero, but he didn't ruin it for me. James Cantrell, the new Duke of Tereford, was handsome, a Corinthian who excelled at all sports, especially boxing, and he never lost. He could not stand to lose, so he just didn't participate in something he was not the best at. He used others to cover his weaknesses and was completely oblivious of that fact. His friends since childhood knew these things about him yet remained loyal. Although he had mistresses, he was discreet and didn't use and discard many women. He just didn't have empathy for others and was too selfish to be self-aware. Fortunately, throughout the course of the story, he grew a lot.
Cecelia managed all of her father's affairs, both the household and his business work. For this reason, she also managed James' business interests as her father was his guardian. Perhaps because James was so handsome and athletically inclined, she developed a crush on him at a young age and could not love anyone else. By this point, she has already been through a few seasons and could not consider marrying someone else. In spite of that fact, when James proposed a marriage of convenience so that she can manage his new dukal responsibilities, she declines. I liked Cecilia very much. She was pretty, kind, smart, and giving. She also grew throughout the story. With a prince in town showering her with attention and new friends, she gained a lot of experiences this season that she hadn't had before.
My main complaint is it ended too abruptly. I have said this before, but it was really quick this time. I think it needed another chapter in addition to the epilogue. I am sure Book 2 in the series will give some slight insight into what happens next. I look forward to reading on.
I have read all of the books in the two series by Jane Ashford and now the start of this one. It is a spin-off with some of the same characters. I have not read many of her standalone stories that she wrote before the series, but I understand why she might have had so many. Each one of her books is unique and feels totally different than another book in the same series. I do enjoy getting to know the secondary characters and, in some cases, introduced to future main characters. Since her books are so different, I absolutely love some and care for others less; but I definitely plan to continue reading all of her future releases.
This one had a hero who was completely self-absorbed. That is not my favorite hero, but he didn't ruin it for me. James Cantrell, the new Duke of Tereford, was handsome, a Corinthian who excelled at all sports, especially boxing, and he never lost. He could not stand to lose, so he just didn't participate in something he was not the best at. He used others to cover his weaknesses and was completely oblivious of that fact. His friends since childhood knew these things about him yet remained loyal. Although he had mistresses, he was discreet and didn't use and discard many women. He just didn't have empathy for others and was too selfish to be self-aware. Fortunately, throughout the course of the story, he grew a lot.
Cecelia managed all of her father's affairs, both the household and his business work. For this reason, she also managed James' business interests as her father was his guardian. Perhaps because James was so handsome and athletically inclined, she developed a crush on him at a young age and could not love anyone else. By this point, she has already been through a few seasons and could not consider marrying someone else. In spite of that fact, when James proposed a marriage of convenience so that she can manage his new dukal responsibilities, she declines. I liked Cecilia very much. She was pretty, kind, smart, and giving. She also grew throughout the story. With a prince in town showering her with attention and new friends, she gained a lot of experiences this season that she hadn't had before.
My main complaint is it ended too abruptly. I have said this before, but it was really quick this time. I think it needed another chapter in addition to the epilogue. I am sure Book 2 in the series will give some slight insight into what happens next. I look forward to reading on.
dnf
September 22, 2021DNF at 74%
I tried soooo hard to finish this, but it's been almost a month since I started and other than some delightful side characters, it's unfortunately quite boring. I might give the later books in the series a try, but with this one it's time to move on.
Thank you to Sourcebooks Casablanca via Netgalley for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review! All opinions expressed are my own.
I tried soooo hard to finish this, but it's been almost a month since I started and other than some delightful side characters, it's unfortunately quite boring. I might give the later books in the series a try, but with this one it's time to move on.
Thank you to Sourcebooks Casablanca via Netgalley for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review! All opinions expressed are my own.
August 30, 2021
Childhood friendships don’t necessarily marriages make! _____ 2.5
We have the rather irresponsible tear away James Cantrell, inheriting his dukedom and discovering it’s not as orderly as he supposed. Mind you his father and then his trustees did rather push James away.
The way forward is to marry his old chum and whizz at organising things, Cecelia Vainsmede. After all she’s helped him all his life. They’ve known each other since they were thirteen and fifteen respectively. Ideal! A marriage of convenience is not what Cecelia wants with a James. If she looks into the dark corners of her heart she wants more and is not prepared to settle for less.
Cecelia needs a distraction, and the advances of a rather handsome German prince seems just the ticket to add a bit of energy to the mix. There are some problems with this. Wires do get crossed. The least not being James realising that maybe Cecelia means more to him than the very helpful childhood friend.
Oh, and did I mention that Cecelia has taken under her wing not one but four young ladies looking to her for advice about all things to do with the season.
An untaxing read, an ending without verve, with a hero who really needs to just grow up. James is a bit of an unthinking fribble, not unkind—just thoughtless. Still maybe leopards can change their spots?!
A Sourcebooks Casablanca ARC via NetGalley
We have the rather irresponsible tear away James Cantrell, inheriting his dukedom and discovering it’s not as orderly as he supposed. Mind you his father and then his trustees did rather push James away.
The way forward is to marry his old chum and whizz at organising things, Cecelia Vainsmede. After all she’s helped him all his life. They’ve known each other since they were thirteen and fifteen respectively. Ideal! A marriage of convenience is not what Cecelia wants with a James. If she looks into the dark corners of her heart she wants more and is not prepared to settle for less.
Cecelia needs a distraction, and the advances of a rather handsome German prince seems just the ticket to add a bit of energy to the mix. There are some problems with this. Wires do get crossed. The least not being James realising that maybe Cecelia means more to him than the very helpful childhood friend.
Oh, and did I mention that Cecelia has taken under her wing not one but four young ladies looking to her for advice about all things to do with the season.
An untaxing read, an ending without verve, with a hero who really needs to just grow up. James is a bit of an unthinking fribble, not unkind—just thoughtless. Still maybe leopards can change their spots?!
A Sourcebooks Casablanca ARC via NetGalley
August 8, 2021
I received an Advance Reader Copy from the publisher. This in no way impacted on my view.
James Cantrell may now be the Duke of Tereford, but since he was 15, he was under the guardianship of his father's friend, Nigel Vainsmede. Both of them butted heads regularly, and it was only when the then nine year old, Cecelia, only daughter of Vainsmede, started to intercede in their quarrels, that anything was solved. And since then, Cecelia has always smoothed the troubles, and helped James, even when he didn't need the help. But now, as the newly inherited duke, he has a whole townhouse full of oddities, stuffed to the brim by his eccentric predecessor, and the rest of the ducal properties to boot. He needs Cecelia's help to bring the estate up to scratch, and soon gets it in his head that the perfect duchess for him, is in fact Cecelia. But when a German duke visits London, and seems to have his eye on Miss Vainsmede, James' work may be cut out for him. And for Cecelia, she's been in love with James since she was young, but now, she can't believe his proposal to be real, and it's breaking her hurt to turn him down. Will she see the real James hidden beneath his bluster and facade, or will she lose her heart completely.
This book was hands down, amazing! As soon as I had started it, I was gripped by the banter and chemistry between Cecelia and James, who had known each other for years, and had a relationship that was perfect. I loved seeing James' growth as well. He started off as a cocky rogue, who expected everyone to think the same as him, and anyone who thought different, was utter nonsense. He got it in his head that he and Cecelia should marry, and proposed in an abysmal way, so it was no real shock when she declined. I felt like he needed that, and the upset that occurred a little later with the prince, to fully grow. Seeing him in his home, digging through the rubbish, and caring for a homeless family who lived in the stables, we truly saw James as the caring person who was hidden beneath. And as for Cecelia, she had been in charge of her father's household since her mother died, mainly because her father only cared about food, or his philosophical work. She had had a few seasons, and proposals to boot, but had turned them all down, hoping for love - really, hoping for James. She gets a group of friends in the early pages of the books, and the four of them - Charlotte, Ada, Harriet, and Sarah - with Cecelia, were truly lovely to read. I've just read the synopsis for book 2, Earl on the Run, and am glad to see it will be Harriet's story. The friends, and James, all rally around Cecelia when the prince comes calling, and there's a scandal afoot. One of the only things I could say against this book would be that there was a lot of miscommunication between James and Cecelia, especially towards the end, and I felt like they should've definitely been open about their feelings for one another a lot earlier. Even so, I can't wait for Earl on the Run, and will be reading as a many of Jane's back catalogue as possible!
James Cantrell may now be the Duke of Tereford, but since he was 15, he was under the guardianship of his father's friend, Nigel Vainsmede. Both of them butted heads regularly, and it was only when the then nine year old, Cecelia, only daughter of Vainsmede, started to intercede in their quarrels, that anything was solved. And since then, Cecelia has always smoothed the troubles, and helped James, even when he didn't need the help. But now, as the newly inherited duke, he has a whole townhouse full of oddities, stuffed to the brim by his eccentric predecessor, and the rest of the ducal properties to boot. He needs Cecelia's help to bring the estate up to scratch, and soon gets it in his head that the perfect duchess for him, is in fact Cecelia. But when a German duke visits London, and seems to have his eye on Miss Vainsmede, James' work may be cut out for him. And for Cecelia, she's been in love with James since she was young, but now, she can't believe his proposal to be real, and it's breaking her hurt to turn him down. Will she see the real James hidden beneath his bluster and facade, or will she lose her heart completely.
This book was hands down, amazing! As soon as I had started it, I was gripped by the banter and chemistry between Cecelia and James, who had known each other for years, and had a relationship that was perfect. I loved seeing James' growth as well. He started off as a cocky rogue, who expected everyone to think the same as him, and anyone who thought different, was utter nonsense. He got it in his head that he and Cecelia should marry, and proposed in an abysmal way, so it was no real shock when she declined. I felt like he needed that, and the upset that occurred a little later with the prince, to fully grow. Seeing him in his home, digging through the rubbish, and caring for a homeless family who lived in the stables, we truly saw James as the caring person who was hidden beneath. And as for Cecelia, she had been in charge of her father's household since her mother died, mainly because her father only cared about food, or his philosophical work. She had had a few seasons, and proposals to boot, but had turned them all down, hoping for love - really, hoping for James. She gets a group of friends in the early pages of the books, and the four of them - Charlotte, Ada, Harriet, and Sarah - with Cecelia, were truly lovely to read. I've just read the synopsis for book 2, Earl on the Run, and am glad to see it will be Harriet's story. The friends, and James, all rally around Cecelia when the prince comes calling, and there's a scandal afoot. One of the only things I could say against this book would be that there was a lot of miscommunication between James and Cecelia, especially towards the end, and I felt like they should've definitely been open about their feelings for one another a lot earlier. Even so, I can't wait for Earl on the Run, and will be reading as a many of Jane's back catalogue as possible!
May 16, 2021
This was a good book. It had a nice protagonist in the form of Cecelia who was a very competent woman and managed her father's estates. The MMC was a little harder to like but tried to redeem himself in the book.
The major problem for me was the lack of resolution. After the FMC and MMC get married, they had many fights and were having trouble adjusting with each other. Suddenly, the MMC
The major problem for me was the lack of resolution. After the FMC and MMC get married, they had many fights and were having trouble adjusting with each other. Suddenly, the MMC
August 30, 2021
I received an ARC of this book.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book--until the very last chapter. I usually do my best to review books without including spoilers, but I don't think I can in this case.
I loved the characters, I loved how they related to each other, I loved the dialogue and how their relationship developed. The secondary characters were great. The plot moved along nicely. Until I got to the very end. I felt completely let down.
Anyone who reads Regency Romance knows that in almost every book, there is a misunderstanding, disagreement, or wrong assumption between the two main characters, and that causes conflict. Once the issue has been resolved, the two characters can live "happily ever after." And anyone who has read Regency Romance for decades, as I have, knows that often the misunderstanding that has caused all the problems is just something kind of silly, like a misheard conversation or an interrupted conversation, and if the two characters would just take a minute and talk honestly about their feelings, everything would come out alright. In a good Regency, we are rooting for the characters to have the opportunity talk to each other and "have it out," and in a badly-written one, we are just frustrated with the characters, want to scream at them, and wonder why they are so dumb that they can't simply talk to each other. Well, in this book, about 2/3 of the way through, this "misunderstanding" happens when an important conversation between our two main characters doesn't quite go as it should. The thing that ruins this book for me is not the "misunderstanding" itself, but what happens after.
The ending was terribly underwhelming. I had really enjoyed this book up to that point. The last pages really disappointed me quite a bit. That is why I am taking away a star in my rating. So despite all the wonderful things that went on in this book up to that point, I cannot recommend this book.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book--until the very last chapter. I usually do my best to review books without including spoilers, but I don't think I can in this case.
I loved the characters, I loved how they related to each other, I loved the dialogue and how their relationship developed. The secondary characters were great. The plot moved along nicely. Until I got to the very end. I felt completely let down.
Anyone who reads Regency Romance knows that in almost every book, there is a misunderstanding, disagreement, or wrong assumption between the two main characters, and that causes conflict. Once the issue has been resolved, the two characters can live "happily ever after." And anyone who has read Regency Romance for decades, as I have, knows that often the misunderstanding that has caused all the problems is just something kind of silly, like a misheard conversation or an interrupted conversation, and if the two characters would just take a minute and talk honestly about their feelings, everything would come out alright. In a good Regency, we are rooting for the characters to have the opportunity talk to each other and "have it out," and in a badly-written one, we are just frustrated with the characters, want to scream at them, and wonder why they are so dumb that they can't simply talk to each other. Well, in this book, about 2/3 of the way through, this "misunderstanding" happens when an important conversation between our two main characters doesn't quite go as it should. The thing that ruins this book for me is not the "misunderstanding" itself, but what happens after.
The ending was terribly underwhelming. I had really enjoyed this book up to that point. The last pages really disappointed me quite a bit. That is why I am taking away a star in my rating. So despite all the wonderful things that went on in this book up to that point, I cannot recommend this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 2, 2022
I liked the lightly humorous moments in the romance story. I enjoyed reading and getting to know James and Cecelia’s character. The story did give good details and descriptions of the scenes, which let me visualize the story more. I thought that the writer did a wonderful job with the dialogue between the characters. Some of their conversations were casual, but other discussion brought the story back to the romance between Cecilia and James. I did find that some wording in the book was too flamboyant for the book. It took me a moment to understand the meaning to what the writer was conveying to that particular scene. The does feel like it’s a quick read. This a sweet romantic read for the readers who love happily ever afters.
December 11, 2021
The lazy H relied on the h to manage the tedious issues in his self indulgent life. He didn't value her as a person. For some odd reason, she believed she loved him. It had the makings of a good story and the while H did mature he was weak and self indulgent. She was an unpleasant person who thought herself better than others. I finished but it was not a satisfying read.
July 5, 2021
this was an arc i got at work, and it really feels like i only read half of a book? maybe 2/3 of one? anyway, i've read some decent romance novels, but i didn't really feel like this was one of them unfortunately!
August 29, 2024
First in a romance series...old friends become lovers ...fun.
July 3, 2024
2.5 stars. Ms Ashford is one of my auto-read authors, and I'm fairly sure I bought the Kindle version of this book at some point, but because of moving/Mount TBR still being in boxes, I just went to the library and decided to pick up the paper version.
I wanted to like this more than I did. These are some of my favorite tropes: childhood friends to lovers, a proposed marriage of convenience, a rake who desperately needs to be reformed so that he can appreciate the whip-smart woman in front of him. The beats of the story are okay, if a bit draggy. Tereford is a petulant jerk for the first half of the book who can't see beyond the tip of his own nose. He proposes to Cecelia because she's been his de facto estate manager ever since his father's death, and what better way to tie her down to the role (so to speak) than to marry her? Cecelia has been in love with him for most of her girlhood, but she knows she deserves better than this. Some wooing wouldn't be misplaced, either. Just as Tereford is realizing this, another suitor comes calling: a minor German prince who's touring England and has taken a shine to Cecelia. Tereford gets stupidly jealous of this other man's attentions, challenges him to a public fencing bout, and is completely humiliated by the result. He takes off to hide in his just-inherited townhouse to nurse his wounds.
I was not in Tereford's corner for this long first half of the book, but once he starts busying himself with the project of getting on with his duties as the new duke, I was much more interested. His predecessor, an uncle, was a manic hoarder and stuffed the townhouse full of junk, which Tereford sets to sorting through. He brings in a family that's seeking refuge in the carriage house as his servants (the servants fled once his uncle died), and he finally starts realizing there is more to life than clothes and Society. He takes the Gardener family under his wing.
Meanwhile, Cecelia is fending off the prince's attentions; when she rejects his offer to be his mistress, the prince starts spreading rumors to ruin her reputation. This is what finally brings Tereford back to society; he's discovered that he cares about Cecelia as an actual woman and desires to protect her.
This is where Cecelia loses me. She can't give up the idea of Tereford as he was, instead of the person he's become. She treats him pretty horribly, even after proposing to him and marrying him. Their relationship gets worse after they marry, not better, and it's her that can't see past her own nose. She takes control of everything, cutting Tereford out of his own life, and then is amazed that he's upset. Really??
The tables eventually turn against the prince, Cecelia's reputation is redeemed, and attention turns to the long-lost earl of the next book. It's in the last chapter that these two admit their tender feelings for each other, but I am not convinced that they actually trust each other now, or that they will be able to communicate without fighting. That's not my idea of a good romance, sorry.
Cecelia's little group of friends are the sequel-bait here, and I'm sufficiently interested to read at least the next two books, one of which is about the lost earl and one of which is set in Cornwall. I hope the characters live up to the potential displayed in this book better than Cecelia and Tereford did here.
I wanted to like this more than I did. These are some of my favorite tropes: childhood friends to lovers, a proposed marriage of convenience, a rake who desperately needs to be reformed so that he can appreciate the whip-smart woman in front of him. The beats of the story are okay, if a bit draggy. Tereford is a petulant jerk for the first half of the book who can't see beyond the tip of his own nose. He proposes to Cecelia because she's been his de facto estate manager ever since his father's death, and what better way to tie her down to the role (so to speak) than to marry her? Cecelia has been in love with him for most of her girlhood, but she knows she deserves better than this. Some wooing wouldn't be misplaced, either. Just as Tereford is realizing this, another suitor comes calling: a minor German prince who's touring England and has taken a shine to Cecelia. Tereford gets stupidly jealous of this other man's attentions, challenges him to a public fencing bout, and is completely humiliated by the result. He takes off to hide in his just-inherited townhouse to nurse his wounds.
I was not in Tereford's corner for this long first half of the book, but once he starts busying himself with the project of getting on with his duties as the new duke, I was much more interested. His predecessor, an uncle, was a manic hoarder and stuffed the townhouse full of junk, which Tereford sets to sorting through. He brings in a family that's seeking refuge in the carriage house as his servants (the servants fled once his uncle died), and he finally starts realizing there is more to life than clothes and Society. He takes the Gardener family under his wing.
Meanwhile, Cecelia is fending off the prince's attentions; when she rejects his offer to be his mistress, the prince starts spreading rumors to ruin her reputation. This is what finally brings Tereford back to society; he's discovered that he cares about Cecelia as an actual woman and desires to protect her.
This is where Cecelia loses me. She can't give up the idea of Tereford as he was, instead of the person he's become. She treats him pretty horribly, even after proposing to him and marrying him. Their relationship gets worse after they marry, not better, and it's her that can't see past her own nose. She takes control of everything, cutting Tereford out of his own life, and then is amazed that he's upset. Really??
The tables eventually turn against the prince, Cecelia's reputation is redeemed, and attention turns to the long-lost earl of the next book. It's in the last chapter that these two admit their tender feelings for each other, but I am not convinced that they actually trust each other now, or that they will be able to communicate without fighting. That's not my idea of a good romance, sorry.
Cecelia's little group of friends are the sequel-bait here, and I'm sufficiently interested to read at least the next two books, one of which is about the lost earl and one of which is set in Cornwall. I hope the characters live up to the potential displayed in this book better than Cecelia and Tereford did here.
August 31, 2021
This is the first book in the Duke's Estates series.
James the new Duke of Tereford has inherited a dukedom from his Great Uncle who they discover may have been a hoarder.
James can't figure out the estate on his own. He wants to ask Cecilia who would be a mediator between himself and his father about business matters since they were younger to help him. He decides that she should be his partner/wife in this. How romantic!! He also gives this Darcy-ish practical business proposal to her. Unbeknownst to him she actually has feelings for him and would have said yes if he had not said she would be great at the business of his estate and maybe talked of love or romance lol. So like Elizabeth she says No.
Then of course a Prince shows interest in her so now he has competition and realizes that the feelings that he has for her and that she is his. Well she does not like any of that behavior from anyone.
I just love Cecilia, she just wants to stop being used for what she can do and what she is good for. She wants to find that HEA and she was hoping it would be with her life long friend but he's proving to be quite dense. He's the most handsome man but just can't seem to tell her what he wants to say.
This was definitely Sweet since I am seeing this book in the bundle that was sent out and it does fall into that category. I never watched hoarders but I like American Pickers so the cleaning and sorting through this mansion for treasures was fun!
This ends on a story beginning for an Earl's story. Can't wait!
Add this to your TBR!
Thank you sourcebookscasa and net galley for the e-ARC for my honest and voluntary review.
James the new Duke of Tereford has inherited a dukedom from his Great Uncle who they discover may have been a hoarder.
James can't figure out the estate on his own. He wants to ask Cecilia who would be a mediator between himself and his father about business matters since they were younger to help him. He decides that she should be his partner/wife in this. How romantic!! He also gives this Darcy-ish practical business proposal to her. Unbeknownst to him she actually has feelings for him and would have said yes if he had not said she would be great at the business of his estate and maybe talked of love or romance lol. So like Elizabeth she says No.
Then of course a Prince shows interest in her so now he has competition and realizes that the feelings that he has for her and that she is his. Well she does not like any of that behavior from anyone.
I just love Cecilia, she just wants to stop being used for what she can do and what she is good for. She wants to find that HEA and she was hoping it would be with her life long friend but he's proving to be quite dense. He's the most handsome man but just can't seem to tell her what he wants to say.
This was definitely Sweet since I am seeing this book in the bundle that was sent out and it does fall into that category. I never watched hoarders but I like American Pickers so the cleaning and sorting through this mansion for treasures was fun!
This ends on a story beginning for an Earl's story. Can't wait!
Add this to your TBR!
Thank you sourcebookscasa and net galley for the e-ARC for my honest and voluntary review.
January 28, 2023
This book was a bit dull.
June 10, 2023
Just because you had a crush on each other when you were younger, doesn’t mean y’all are soulmates. I get why some people don’t care for friends to lovers tripe. Bleh.
Every time I read the title I was reminded of “The duke and I” and “the viscount who loved me”. Those books were my favorite but they were better than this. Also, just like the title, this book kept reminding me of other *better* stories.
Our leading man is whiny and boring. Our leading is witty and has a spine but *SPOILER* she chooses this piece of white Sara Lee soft bread over a PRINCE.
Overall, nothing new and just wanted more.
Every time I read the title I was reminded of “The duke and I” and “the viscount who loved me”. Those books were my favorite but they were better than this. Also, just like the title, this book kept reminding me of other *better* stories.
Our leading man is whiny and boring. Our leading is witty and has a spine but *SPOILER* she chooses this piece of white Sara Lee soft bread over a PRINCE.
Overall, nothing new and just wanted more.
August 5, 2025
This let me down ngl!! Boring
July 12, 2021
This book frustrated me immensely. While there were many aspects of it that I enjoyed, the alleged hero was absolutely infuriating for most of the book, and the central relationship really did not work for me.
My full review will appear on Smart Bitches, Trashy Books.
My full review will appear on Smart Bitches, Trashy Books.
April 8, 2022
https://songedunenuitdete.com/2022/04...
Eh bien, tout était là pour me plaire, des personnages hauts en couleur aux réparties piquantes, des confrontations en société lors de bals et autres diners mondains entre Cécilia et James, mais…
Maiiiiiiiiis….
La sauce n’a pas pris et j’en suis trop attristée !
James et Cécilia se connaissent depuis longtemps, et je m’attendais à quelque chose de plus… épique, je ne sais pas. Je n’ai pas ressenti d’alchimie entre eux. Si Cécilia a des sentiments pour James depuis qu’elle est jeune, elle fait tout pour le rembarrer dès qu’elle le peut (histoire de se protéger), parce qu’elle ne croit pas en lui. Bon, après, ce n’est pas comme si lui-même avait montré un quelconque intérêt pour elle.
S’il la demande en mariage, c’est par esprit pratique et clairement, au début s’il la trouve mignonne, il n’est pas attiré par elle. Ça viendra bien plus tard.
Ce qui sauve ce roman, enfin dans mon cas, ce sont tous les à côté et l’ambiance générale de la bonne société londonienne. Il y a même des moments franchement drôles notamment avec un rival, le prince Karl qui s’intéresse un peu de trop près à Cécilia.
Toutefois, c’est drôle, ça se lit bien… donc oui, ça vient peut-être de moi, quoi qu’il en soit, je crains que ce roman ne me laisse pas une impression indélébile et c’est bien dommage.
On retrouve ce qui fait le charme de ce genre de romance historique dans le plus pur style « régence anglaise » qui correspondra certainement aux attentes des fans de la série Netflix des Bridgerton. Dans mon cas, soit ce n’était pas le bon moment, soit, vraiment, je n’ai pas ressenti d’émotion pour le couple ou même la relation naissante entre James et Cécilia.
C’est un coup d’épée dans l’eau me concernant, je le crains.
Eh bien, tout était là pour me plaire, des personnages hauts en couleur aux réparties piquantes, des confrontations en société lors de bals et autres diners mondains entre Cécilia et James, mais…
Maiiiiiiiiis….
La sauce n’a pas pris et j’en suis trop attristée !
James et Cécilia se connaissent depuis longtemps, et je m’attendais à quelque chose de plus… épique, je ne sais pas. Je n’ai pas ressenti d’alchimie entre eux. Si Cécilia a des sentiments pour James depuis qu’elle est jeune, elle fait tout pour le rembarrer dès qu’elle le peut (histoire de se protéger), parce qu’elle ne croit pas en lui. Bon, après, ce n’est pas comme si lui-même avait montré un quelconque intérêt pour elle.
S’il la demande en mariage, c’est par esprit pratique et clairement, au début s’il la trouve mignonne, il n’est pas attiré par elle. Ça viendra bien plus tard.
Ce qui sauve ce roman, enfin dans mon cas, ce sont tous les à côté et l’ambiance générale de la bonne société londonienne. Il y a même des moments franchement drôles notamment avec un rival, le prince Karl qui s’intéresse un peu de trop près à Cécilia.
Toutefois, c’est drôle, ça se lit bien… donc oui, ça vient peut-être de moi, quoi qu’il en soit, je crains que ce roman ne me laisse pas une impression indélébile et c’est bien dommage.
On retrouve ce qui fait le charme de ce genre de romance historique dans le plus pur style « régence anglaise » qui correspondra certainement aux attentes des fans de la série Netflix des Bridgerton. Dans mon cas, soit ce n’était pas le bon moment, soit, vraiment, je n’ai pas ressenti d’émotion pour le couple ou même la relation naissante entre James et Cécilia.
C’est un coup d’épée dans l’eau me concernant, je le crains.
September 3, 2021
James Cantrell is now the seventh Duke of Tereford, a title he inherited from his great uncle. He now must investigate the home his uncle had lived in. Oh, what a dire mess. It’s musty, filled with all sorts of collections, and perhaps a rat or two. In addition, there is no staff to clean it up.
James’s old friend, Cecelia Vainsmede, is the daughter of Nigel Vainsmede who had been designated as his trustee when his father passed away. James and Nigel have never gotten along so Cecelia acts as their go-between. At age 22, Cecelia has taken over the duties her father is no longer interested in. As James is not sure where to start to get his life in order, he asks Cecelia to marry him and suggesting a marriage of convenience. She promptly turns him down. Now, he is determined to pursue and woo her hoping he can convince her to marry him. So, when he starts showing up at some of the events she is attending, he is peeved to find Karl, a foreign prince trying to woo her for himself.
This book is a crazy mixture that left me frowning through most of it. I have read many of this author’s books and know she writes with humor, but many of these characters are unlikeable. The prince needed to be checked out long before. James is a man who just doesn’t know how to step up and take responsibility for his life and everything that goes with it. It’s hard to believe that Cecelia has spent most of her life taking care of things for everyone. It’s a good thing though since she is surrounded by people who are so lazy. An OK read here, but not something I would care to read again.
Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
James’s old friend, Cecelia Vainsmede, is the daughter of Nigel Vainsmede who had been designated as his trustee when his father passed away. James and Nigel have never gotten along so Cecelia acts as their go-between. At age 22, Cecelia has taken over the duties her father is no longer interested in. As James is not sure where to start to get his life in order, he asks Cecelia to marry him and suggesting a marriage of convenience. She promptly turns him down. Now, he is determined to pursue and woo her hoping he can convince her to marry him. So, when he starts showing up at some of the events she is attending, he is peeved to find Karl, a foreign prince trying to woo her for himself.
This book is a crazy mixture that left me frowning through most of it. I have read many of this author’s books and know she writes with humor, but many of these characters are unlikeable. The prince needed to be checked out long before. James is a man who just doesn’t know how to step up and take responsibility for his life and everything that goes with it. It’s hard to believe that Cecelia has spent most of her life taking care of things for everyone. It’s a good thing though since she is surrounded by people who are so lazy. An OK read here, but not something I would care to read again.
Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
February 6, 2022
The Duke who Loved me by Jane Ashford is the first book in the Duke’s Estate Series. I accidentally read book number two first so I needed to go back and catch up. I am glad I did. I found this novel humorous in a tongue in cheek way. The new Duke of Tereford was so sure he was all that, he thought Cecelia would love to jump in and help him out for the privilege of being his duchess. Shockingly, she is not interested!!!!
James has to figure out how to start to find his own way through the mess of his dukedom. His uncle threw NOTHING away and James has to start room by room to find his way through the miasma of his uncle’s life. Cecelia has always had to take care of ‘business’. She has taken care of her father and their business and then ended up helping James out until he came of age. Cecelia wants to be loved for herself, not because she is really good at organizing and balancing a number of properties and business interests. James needs to figure that out before it is too late.
The book was humorous in different ways. Some of the characters and situations were fun. I loved how Cecelia ‘brought James up to snuff’ without him even realizing it. I enjoyed the book and would recommend The Duke Who Loved Me by Jane Ashford.
James has to figure out how to start to find his own way through the mess of his dukedom. His uncle threw NOTHING away and James has to start room by room to find his way through the miasma of his uncle’s life. Cecelia has always had to take care of ‘business’. She has taken care of her father and their business and then ended up helping James out until he came of age. Cecelia wants to be loved for herself, not because she is really good at organizing and balancing a number of properties and business interests. James needs to figure that out before it is too late.
The book was humorous in different ways. Some of the characters and situations were fun. I loved how Cecelia ‘brought James up to snuff’ without him even realizing it. I enjoyed the book and would recommend The Duke Who Loved Me by Jane Ashford.
August 31, 2021
This book reads a bit like a historical romance mixed with a rom-com and the results are fantastic.
James and Cecelia are total opposites who have been butting heads since children because Cecelia thinks James is too superficial and James thinks Cecelia is too uptight and organized. They are the epitome of opposites attract!
When James inherits a Dukedom in horrid disarray, he decides that the easiest way to deal with it is by marrying a woman he knows is good at fixing messes. So he proceeds to give Cecelia the worst marriage proposal ever uttered, which of course gets him immediately rejected and starts a domino effect that sees both their lives changed forever. Along the way, we meet interesting characters, get to experience the Ton gossip mill all a flutter, and see two people perfect for each other grow and realize that a little bit of compromise, acceptance, and communication can lead to a very happily ever after.
It's a fast-paced, fun, romantic read that I couldn't put down. Ashford's writing creates both fun and slightly outlandish situations for the characters to go through that kept me turning pages and enjoying every step of the way.
Many very happy thanks to NetGalley and SOURCEBOOKS Casablanca for the early read!
James and Cecelia are total opposites who have been butting heads since children because Cecelia thinks James is too superficial and James thinks Cecelia is too uptight and organized. They are the epitome of opposites attract!
When James inherits a Dukedom in horrid disarray, he decides that the easiest way to deal with it is by marrying a woman he knows is good at fixing messes. So he proceeds to give Cecelia the worst marriage proposal ever uttered, which of course gets him immediately rejected and starts a domino effect that sees both their lives changed forever. Along the way, we meet interesting characters, get to experience the Ton gossip mill all a flutter, and see two people perfect for each other grow and realize that a little bit of compromise, acceptance, and communication can lead to a very happily ever after.
It's a fast-paced, fun, romantic read that I couldn't put down. Ashford's writing creates both fun and slightly outlandish situations for the characters to go through that kept me turning pages and enjoying every step of the way.
Many very happy thanks to NetGalley and SOURCEBOOKS Casablanca for the early read!
February 23, 2022
James Cantrell, the new Duke of Tereford, James Cantrell, is quite taken aback at how much work it is to step up to the responsibilities of being a duke. Particularly since he has inherited a "dukedom in disarray." He needs his childhood friend Cecelia Vainsmede to take up the reins and make sure everything is taken care of--business matters and organization is really her thing so what's the problem? She's helped him out forever in the past...
The problem is that James takes Cecelia for granted and she's not here for that. Set adrift, James is more competent than he expected at figuring out how to "duke." Of course the two are meant for each other so why is a European princeling mucking up the works? One of the sweetest things about The Duke Who Loved Me is how capable Cecelia is at taking care of herself. At times James is quite the blustering idjit.
When it comes to character development, this is James's story. Cecelia very sensibly stands aside and lets him work out just how much he loves her and what he'll need to do to win her hand.
As a bonus, past readers of Jane Ashford's connected series will enjoy re-meeting faves from earlier books.
The problem is that James takes Cecelia for granted and she's not here for that. Set adrift, James is more competent than he expected at figuring out how to "duke." Of course the two are meant for each other so why is a European princeling mucking up the works? One of the sweetest things about The Duke Who Loved Me is how capable Cecelia is at taking care of herself. At times James is quite the blustering idjit.
When it comes to character development, this is James's story. Cecelia very sensibly stands aside and lets him work out just how much he loves her and what he'll need to do to win her hand.
As a bonus, past readers of Jane Ashford's connected series will enjoy re-meeting faves from earlier books.
August 31, 2021
An enjoyable read
This was a new author for me and I’m happy to say that I liked her writing very much. The thing I enjoyed most are the dialogues, in particular the banter between the main characters, and I also took great pleasure in reading the internal workings of the hero and the heroine’s minds. But while Cecelia is an awesome character from the very start, witty, competent and with a sharp mind, James is not as lovable at the beginning. He’s spoiled, lazy, selfish and he doesn’t know how to lose… But it’s really wonderful to see him grow and change during the book and see his true nature brought to the surface, that of a caring, young man who is capable of good deeds, love and compassion.
I would have preferred that the “real” HEA occurred a little before the last pages, though. But I’m sure we’ll see more of Cecelia and James in the following books of the series.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This was a new author for me and I’m happy to say that I liked her writing very much. The thing I enjoyed most are the dialogues, in particular the banter between the main characters, and I also took great pleasure in reading the internal workings of the hero and the heroine’s minds. But while Cecelia is an awesome character from the very start, witty, competent and with a sharp mind, James is not as lovable at the beginning. He’s spoiled, lazy, selfish and he doesn’t know how to lose… But it’s really wonderful to see him grow and change during the book and see his true nature brought to the surface, that of a caring, young man who is capable of good deeds, love and compassion.
I would have preferred that the “real” HEA occurred a little before the last pages, though. But I’m sure we’ll see more of Cecelia and James in the following books of the series.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 22, 2021
James Cantrell, the new Duke of Tereford, has inherited a dukedom in disarray and is overwhelmed by his unaccustomed responsibilities. Then he gets an idea. Cecelia Vainsmede served as liaison between James and her father, and she knows a great deal about business matters, his own in particular. She's also quite pretty. Ever the pragmatist, he suggests a marriage of convenience. Cecelia has always been good at working with James, but she doesn't understand how he can be so obtuse. He clearly doesn't realize that he's the duke she's always wished for, or that his offer is an insult. But when a German prince arrives in London and immediately sets out to woo Cecelia, James will have to come to terms with what he really feels for her.
The start of a new series & it started with so much promise. I liked James but found him inflexible & wanted to shake him at times. I liked Cecelia & I loved their verbal banter, the chemistry between them also grew throughout the book. However I couldn’t believe the ending, saying three little words doesn't set the world to rights & there was so much unresolved. I really felt that there should have been at least one more chapter & probably quite a few more for everything to be worked out. It was if the author had reached her word count & that was it with much of the end of the novel unused. So I was left totally unsatisfied & disappointed
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
The start of a new series & it started with so much promise. I liked James but found him inflexible & wanted to shake him at times. I liked Cecelia & I loved their verbal banter, the chemistry between them also grew throughout the book. However I couldn’t believe the ending, saying three little words doesn't set the world to rights & there was so much unresolved. I really felt that there should have been at least one more chapter & probably quite a few more for everything to be worked out. It was if the author had reached her word count & that was it with much of the end of the novel unused. So I was left totally unsatisfied & disappointed
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
August 8, 2021
This is a first book in a new series by Jane Ashford. I received a free copy from NetGalley.
I generally find Jane Ashford novels enjoyable as nice, light romances. This one was interesting; I think I may have been dissatisfied if this was a stand alone novel, but as a first of a series, I am rather intrigued.
First, I found the hero to be a rather selfish, arrogant bit of a twat. But it was rather nice to see that he became a bit more self aware as the novel went on. It seemed like he grew and became less self absorbed with his own self and more aware of others, including the heroine. Nice to see. The heroine is a childhood acquaintance that he seemed to be used to using but overlooking for years, and she put up with it, while hiding her own affections, or at least being aware that he doesn't regard her as anything more as someone who could be useful to him, but annoying. Enter another romantic interest who sets up a competition between the two men, for the heroine's attention. This other man acts as a catalyst to make the hero realize that maybe she is more than just a useful convenience, but also to make him realize what a spoiled and self-absorbed ass he has been - to an extent anyways. It was nice to see them both blossoming as characters and in a relationship. It seemed like a nice beginning; but I would have liked a bit more of an idea of if they ended up being a couple that learned to work around each other strengths or not.
The real charm of the story for me is the secondary characters that were introduced, and whom we shall see in other books in the series, I presume. There is a lot of discussion of the Earl of Ferrington, who does not even show up in this book, but is frequently mentioned, and I see shall be the hero of the second book. With all the build of that story line, I am looking forward to the second book. The characters of Ned, the "deaf" aunt with the bee obsession, the overbearing grandmother, the rather cryptic friend of the hero, and the 4 female friends of the the heroine are intriguing and I would like to know more about them. I am also very curious about how Tereford House turns out and if there are other hidden treasures (and if the prior Duke's hoarding was a result of years of thieving or not?!), or mysteries in that basket of unread letters. If there is not further mention of them in the future, then I would be disappointed, because it would be several things that were unresolved, and merely initiated or alluded to in this book, that had an unsatisfactory ending.
I generally find Jane Ashford novels enjoyable as nice, light romances. This one was interesting; I think I may have been dissatisfied if this was a stand alone novel, but as a first of a series, I am rather intrigued.
First, I found the hero to be a rather selfish, arrogant bit of a twat. But it was rather nice to see that he became a bit more self aware as the novel went on. It seemed like he grew and became less self absorbed with his own self and more aware of others, including the heroine. Nice to see. The heroine is a childhood acquaintance that he seemed to be used to using but overlooking for years, and she put up with it, while hiding her own affections, or at least being aware that he doesn't regard her as anything more as someone who could be useful to him, but annoying. Enter another romantic interest who sets up a competition between the two men, for the heroine's attention. This other man acts as a catalyst to make the hero realize that maybe she is more than just a useful convenience, but also to make him realize what a spoiled and self-absorbed ass he has been - to an extent anyways. It was nice to see them both blossoming as characters and in a relationship. It seemed like a nice beginning; but I would have liked a bit more of an idea of if they ended up being a couple that learned to work around each other strengths or not.
The real charm of the story for me is the secondary characters that were introduced, and whom we shall see in other books in the series, I presume. There is a lot of discussion of the Earl of Ferrington, who does not even show up in this book, but is frequently mentioned, and I see shall be the hero of the second book. With all the build of that story line, I am looking forward to the second book. The characters of Ned, the "deaf" aunt with the bee obsession, the overbearing grandmother, the rather cryptic friend of the hero, and the 4 female friends of the the heroine are intriguing and I would like to know more about them. I am also very curious about how Tereford House turns out and if there are other hidden treasures (and if the prior Duke's hoarding was a result of years of thieving or not?!), or mysteries in that basket of unread letters. If there is not further mention of them in the future, then I would be disappointed, because it would be several things that were unresolved, and merely initiated or alluded to in this book, that had an unsatisfactory ending.
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August 29, 2021The Duke Who Loved Me is the first book in The Duke's Estates series by Jane Ashford. A steamy historical romance that sweeps you away to another time, another place. The characters are well-written with intriguing backstories that pull you into the story making it read like a movie. I was not a fan of the ending and would like another chapter or two to tie up loose ends. I do look forward to reading the next book in The Duke's Estates series/
November 4, 2021
An interesting beginning to a new series. Moves slow in a few places but overall not a bad read
August 27, 2025
The language is well written, although it reads more like a georgette heyer than a Jane Austen. Had me in the first half to three quarters and the last bit just kinda became a denouement and slightly boring. It dragged out a bit and could have had a snappier ending.
February 25, 2023
The ending…get REAL. Ban all men named James until we figure out what’s going on
February 16, 2023
Very well done. A true regency romance. The characters are fascinating. The dialogue intelligent and funny. The ending is a little odd, but quite fitting with the rest of the story. Beautifully written. I’ll be reading more by this author.
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