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Desperately Seeking Duke #2.5
How the Scot Was Won
Agnes St. James has no wealth, no status, and no suitors. Thankfully, she’s happy with her family, her friends, and her beloved shop, the place to buy fine silks in Edinburgh.
Felix Duncan has a thriving legal career, connections, and ambition. What he doesn’t have, despite his father’s prodding, is a wife. Fortunately, he’s content with that.
Until their paths cross, and suddenly both realize they want more. Agnes is astonished—and thrilled—that such a charming, handsome fellow is flirting with her. Felix is astonished—and bowled over—that his friend’s younger sister has grown into such a clever beauty. It looks like Fate—until a scandalous indiscretion and a shocking inheritance threaten to spoil any chance of happily-ever-after...
Felix Duncan has a thriving legal career, connections, and ambition. What he doesn’t have, despite his father’s prodding, is a wife. Fortunately, he’s content with that.
Until their paths cross, and suddenly both realize they want more. Agnes is astonished—and thrilled—that such a charming, handsome fellow is flirting with her. Felix is astonished—and bowled over—that his friend’s younger sister has grown into such a clever beauty. It looks like Fate—until a scandalous indiscretion and a shocking inheritance threaten to spoil any chance of happily-ever-after...
180 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 6, 2021
92 people are currently reading
354 people want to read
About the author
Caroline Linden
57 books1,702 followersCaroline Linden was born a reader, not a writer. She earned a degree in mathematics from Harvard University and worked as a programmer in the financial services industry before realizing writing fiction is much more exciting than writing code. Her books have won the NEC-RWA Readers' Choice Award, the JNRW Golden Leaf, the Daphne du Maurier Award, and RWA's RITA Award, and have been translated into seventeen languages around the world. She lives in New England.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews
August 7, 2021
Lovely leads, lovely romance. I thought it captured that heady feeling of early love well. This is a companion novel to book 2 of the series and there are some coincident events. Buddy read in the HRBC with Loriidae and Lisa — though I was not good at keeping up.
April 10, 2022
Agnes St. James is flattered when Felix Duncan hits on her and not the beautiful Ilsa Ramsey. After much flirting, they end up getting a little drunk and cross several bases together. But instead of proposing properly, a hungover / feverish Felix fumbles the question. Over the course of Agnes's brother's growing romance with Ilsa (covered in Linden's A Scot to the Heart), Felix and Agnes reconcile, and get feelings, and also bone in public.
1. This was cute, although the separation felt a little half-assed.
2. It also could have focused a little more on the specific relationship between Felix and Agnes, vs. the inclusion of all the overlap with A Scot to the Heart. It's been a few months since I read that one, and there's both not enough detail to make whatever's happening with Ilsa easy to follow, and too much detail about whatever's happening with Ilsa. I don't know if there's a clear path to fix this because Felix and Agnes are so closely tied to that other story.
3. Also the cover was clearly designed by someone who didn't get any sort of brief??? FELIX IS A REDHEAD???? I MEAN???
4. All my complaints aside: I really enjoyed this romance and it's lack of external dramas. It's the story of two individuals figuring out how to romance one another, and it's cute!
1. This was cute, although the separation felt a little half-assed.
2. It also could have focused a little more on the specific relationship between Felix and Agnes, vs. the inclusion of all the overlap with A Scot to the Heart. It's been a few months since I read that one, and there's both not enough detail to make whatever's happening with Ilsa easy to follow, and too much detail about whatever's happening with Ilsa. I don't know if there's a clear path to fix this because Felix and Agnes are so closely tied to that other story.
3. Also the cover was clearly designed by someone who didn't get any sort of brief??? FELIX IS A REDHEAD???? I MEAN???
4. All my complaints aside: I really enjoyed this romance and it's lack of external dramas. It's the story of two individuals figuring out how to romance one another, and it's cute!
May 17, 2023
This is meant to be a companion novel to "Scot to the Heart" (which I have not read), so it's possible that I would like this better if I read them in the proper order.
The 24 year old heroine's parents own a fabric shop that she's worked in for her whole life. The hero was good friends with her brother growing up and became a lawyer.
There's a lot of good going on in this book, but the story felt too drawn out and too short at the same time. And something stopped me from truly connecting with the story or the characters. But I'm still interested in reading the full length books in the series.
The 24 year old heroine's parents own a fabric shop that she's worked in for her whole life. The hero was good friends with her brother growing up and became a lawyer.
There's a lot of good going on in this book, but the story felt too drawn out and too short at the same time. And something stopped me from truly connecting with the story or the characters. But I'm still interested in reading the full length books in the series.
June 25, 2021
Series: Desperately Seeking Duke #2.5
Publication Date: 7/6/21
Period: Georgian, Edinburgh
Number of Pages:143
This was such a fun story! I loved Felix and Agnes in A Scot to the Heart and I’m so happy to see their story from their own point of view. We certainly saw the ebb and flow of their relationship in the previous book, but we didn’t know the underlying causes – and now we do. You’ll love the main characters, but you’ll also love the secondary characters who I wouldn’t mind seeing in their own stories.
Felix Duncan is a successful Edinburgh lawyer who also happens to be close friends with Andrew St James (newly discovered heir to the Duke of Carlyle). Felix and Drew were close from the time they were children when they were coached in golf and other sports by Drew’s father - back before Drew’s life fell apart. Drew’s sister Agnes had always caught his attention as children, but, as an adult, she mesmerizes him. He is totally smitten. Except, somehow, he seems to always put the wrong foot forward when it comes to her.
Agnes St. James has been flirting with Felix Duncan over currant buns at Mr. Agnew’s coffee house for quite some time. She’s quite taken with him and always looks forward to those encounters. She thinks there could be a chance for romance – until… Well, I won’t spoil the story and tell you what happens – other than there are misunderstandings.
I loved this quick, short read and I loved watching Agnes and Felix find their own HEA among all of the stress, drama, and excitement that was popping around them. I hope you’ll give it a read and enjoy it as much as I did.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Publication Date: 7/6/21
Period: Georgian, Edinburgh
Number of Pages:143
This was such a fun story! I loved Felix and Agnes in A Scot to the Heart and I’m so happy to see their story from their own point of view. We certainly saw the ebb and flow of their relationship in the previous book, but we didn’t know the underlying causes – and now we do. You’ll love the main characters, but you’ll also love the secondary characters who I wouldn’t mind seeing in their own stories.
Felix Duncan is a successful Edinburgh lawyer who also happens to be close friends with Andrew St James (newly discovered heir to the Duke of Carlyle). Felix and Drew were close from the time they were children when they were coached in golf and other sports by Drew’s father - back before Drew’s life fell apart. Drew’s sister Agnes had always caught his attention as children, but, as an adult, she mesmerizes him. He is totally smitten. Except, somehow, he seems to always put the wrong foot forward when it comes to her.
Agnes St. James has been flirting with Felix Duncan over currant buns at Mr. Agnew’s coffee house for quite some time. She’s quite taken with him and always looks forward to those encounters. She thinks there could be a chance for romance – until… Well, I won’t spoil the story and tell you what happens – other than there are misunderstandings.
I loved this quick, short read and I loved watching Agnes and Felix find their own HEA among all of the stress, drama, and excitement that was popping around them. I hope you’ll give it a read and enjoy it as much as I did.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 19, 2021
Regency in Edinburgh. This short story had 2 romances.
The MCs were: Felix an attorney w/ a Judge for his sire
& Agnes who helped run her family's shop selling silks.
This had too many plots and sub-plots. Agnes' family
was low on funds, the eldest/ her brother military man
Drew learned he was a duke's heir (natch) and had to
return & learn estate mgt. MCs became bosky on whiskey,
got sexy, stopped before consummation, guilt ensued.
A theft ring hit the family's silk shop. Felix spent entirely
too much time away from his legal practice.
The MCs went in circles (in words & actions), when having
honest convos instead would've kept them on track. Both
needed to listen + stop avoiding/ ignoring each other.
Revised.
The MCs were: Felix an attorney w/ a Judge for his sire
& Agnes who helped run her family's shop selling silks.
This had too many plots and sub-plots. Agnes' family
was low on funds, the eldest/ her brother military man
Drew learned he was a duke's heir (natch) and had to
return & learn estate mgt. MCs became bosky on whiskey,
got sexy, stopped before consummation, guilt ensued.
A theft ring hit the family's silk shop. Felix spent entirely
too much time away from his legal practice.
The MCs went in circles (in words & actions), when having
honest convos instead would've kept them on track. Both
needed to listen + stop avoiding/ ignoring each other.
Revised.
July 13, 2021
4.25 stars
Agnes St. James and Felix Duncan stole my interest in A Scot to the Heart - there was this intense vibe between the two them, I KNEW there was a story behind it. But that book was Drew's and Ilsa's ... so no chapters dedicated to either Agnes and Felix (as younger sister and best friend of Drew, respectively).
So I was delighted when I realized there was a companion novella to that book, and it was ABOUT Agnes and Felix...
Felix has been smitten with Agnes even before Drew returns home. It was ADORABLE!! And yes, I finally found out what happened between the two ()
I loved these two, and I found their story more "grounded" than Drew and Ilsa (theirs involve a robbery!) despite the big misunderstanding plot device, which is not a particularly favorite of mine. I also liked Felix's father, who seemed intimidating at first but not really *lol*.
This is a wonderful companion novella! In fact, I loved it a bit better than the novels 😄
Agnes St. James and Felix Duncan stole my interest in A Scot to the Heart - there was this intense vibe between the two them, I KNEW there was a story behind it. But that book was Drew's and Ilsa's ... so no chapters dedicated to either Agnes and Felix (as younger sister and best friend of Drew, respectively).
So I was delighted when I realized there was a companion novella to that book, and it was ABOUT Agnes and Felix...
Felix has been smitten with Agnes even before Drew returns home. It was ADORABLE!! And yes, I finally found out what happened between the two ()
I loved these two, and I found their story more "grounded" than Drew and Ilsa (theirs involve a robbery!) despite the big misunderstanding plot device, which is not a particularly favorite of mine. I also liked Felix's father, who seemed intimidating at first but not really *lol*.
This is a wonderful companion novella! In fact, I loved it a bit better than the novels 😄
June 7, 2021
Agnes St. James has lived a simple life since her father died, helping her mother manage her beloved shop and survive. When Felix Duncan comes across Agnes years later, he's surprised by his attraction to his friend’s younger sister. But a scandalous interlude, a botched proposal, and a shocking inheritance threaten to spoil budding courtship.
This is best read as a companion novella to A Scot To The Heart, book two in the Desperately Seeking Duke series. I loved that book, but I was left with a question: what happened between secondary characters Agnes and Felix?!? I highly recommend reading the stories back to back, as this novella moves quite briskly through the events from the previous story from Agnes and Felix's perspective. I don't know that I would have appreciated this one as much if I hadn't read the other. I particularly loved the early part of their romance when they were meeting at the coffee shop. I'm so glad I was able to find out how Agnes and Felix made it to their HEA.
Tropes: Class Difference (sort of), Working Heroine, Brother's Best Friend, Compromised
Steam Rating: 2
* I received an ARC from the author and this is my honest review.
This is best read as a companion novella to A Scot To The Heart, book two in the Desperately Seeking Duke series. I loved that book, but I was left with a question: what happened between secondary characters Agnes and Felix?!? I highly recommend reading the stories back to back, as this novella moves quite briskly through the events from the previous story from Agnes and Felix's perspective. I don't know that I would have appreciated this one as much if I hadn't read the other. I particularly loved the early part of their romance when they were meeting at the coffee shop. I'm so glad I was able to find out how Agnes and Felix made it to their HEA.
Tropes: Class Difference (sort of), Working Heroine, Brother's Best Friend, Compromised
Steam Rating: 2
* I received an ARC from the author and this is my honest review.
July 10, 2021
Do yourself a favor, and DO NOT read this one shortly after
.
It is a rehashing of the previous book.
I would have enjoyed this more if I would I have given it more time in between books.
.It is a rehashing of the previous book.
I would have enjoyed this more if I would I have given it more time in between books.
July 2, 2021
If you read A Scot to the Heart then you have already met Agnes and Felix and are probably dying to know what happened to make her first dislike him and then apparently reconcile with him – Well the wait is over and the story is delicious! If you haven’t read the aforementioned book, no worries – this novella is their complete story and you will have no problems jumping right in.
Felix Duncan and Agnes St. James have a long history, one that goes back to their childhood, Felix was a friend of Agnes’ brother Andrew and was always kind to her, but it wasn’t until years later that Felix saw her again and realized that little girl that always tagged along was now a beautiful woman. One he wanted to get to know. Through “random” meetings at a coffeehouse, they formed a friendship and deeper feelings began to take root. But a night of revelry and a bit too much whiskey resulted in the world’s worst marriage proposal and the end to what had been a lovely friendship.
Things remained tense between them, and while they would have liked to avoid each other, that is not possible when her brother returns and Agnes ends up staying with her friend Ilsa who becomes romantically involved with her brother – who happens to be staying with Felix. When Andrew organizes a house party and invites Felix to join them, it appears that our lovers will finally talk and reconcile – a boon in Felix’s opinion and one he doesn’t plan on wasting, because, despite everything that has happened, he really has fallen for Agnes. But just as things seem to be falling into place for their HEA, things completely fall apart for Ilsa and Andrew, and any hope for a quick HEA is lost, but that doesn’t mean it will never happen – does it?
I really enjoyed this novella, it was well-written and never felt rushed or recycled as it was also its own story even though it is on the same timeline as A Scot to the Heart, this book is filled with emotion, angst, steamyish love scenes, a hero who works hard for redemption and finally a well-deserved HEA. This was written as a companion novella to the novel A Scot to the Heart which is Andrew and Ilsa’s story, and while you can read this story without reading that one with no problems, I wouldn’t recommend reading this one first as it will have spoilers.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.*
Felix Duncan and Agnes St. James have a long history, one that goes back to their childhood, Felix was a friend of Agnes’ brother Andrew and was always kind to her, but it wasn’t until years later that Felix saw her again and realized that little girl that always tagged along was now a beautiful woman. One he wanted to get to know. Through “random” meetings at a coffeehouse, they formed a friendship and deeper feelings began to take root. But a night of revelry and a bit too much whiskey resulted in the world’s worst marriage proposal and the end to what had been a lovely friendship.
Things remained tense between them, and while they would have liked to avoid each other, that is not possible when her brother returns and Agnes ends up staying with her friend Ilsa who becomes romantically involved with her brother – who happens to be staying with Felix. When Andrew organizes a house party and invites Felix to join them, it appears that our lovers will finally talk and reconcile – a boon in Felix’s opinion and one he doesn’t plan on wasting, because, despite everything that has happened, he really has fallen for Agnes. But just as things seem to be falling into place for their HEA, things completely fall apart for Ilsa and Andrew, and any hope for a quick HEA is lost, but that doesn’t mean it will never happen – does it?
I really enjoyed this novella, it was well-written and never felt rushed or recycled as it was also its own story even though it is on the same timeline as A Scot to the Heart, this book is filled with emotion, angst, steamyish love scenes, a hero who works hard for redemption and finally a well-deserved HEA. This was written as a companion novella to the novel A Scot to the Heart which is Andrew and Ilsa’s story, and while you can read this story without reading that one with no problems, I wouldn’t recommend reading this one first as it will have spoilers.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.*
July 1, 2023
I enjoyed this story, but didn't love it. Agnes was an interesting heroine who blew hot then cold regarding our hero, Felix. The story just wasn't that interesting, but I was glad Agnes got her HEA.
When Agnes St. James' father died the family was reduced from a comfortable middle-class existence to one of near poverty. They were able to hold on to their fine silks shop in Edinburgh, but the oldest brother, Andrew, was forced to enter the military in order to support them. Agnes has no social life and no prospects for a suitor.
Felix Duncan was Andrew's best friend when they were younger. Andrew went to the military and Felix went to university and became a lawyer with a successful law practice. When he sees a now grown-up Agnes he is instantly smitten and sets out to flirt with the shy woman. Unfortunately, things get out of hand and there are hurt feelings on both sides. But true love will always find a way.
3 1/2-Stars
When Agnes St. James' father died the family was reduced from a comfortable middle-class existence to one of near poverty. They were able to hold on to their fine silks shop in Edinburgh, but the oldest brother, Andrew, was forced to enter the military in order to support them. Agnes has no social life and no prospects for a suitor.
Felix Duncan was Andrew's best friend when they were younger. Andrew went to the military and Felix went to university and became a lawyer with a successful law practice. When he sees a now grown-up Agnes he is instantly smitten and sets out to flirt with the shy woman. Unfortunately, things get out of hand and there are hurt feelings on both sides. But true love will always find a way.
3 1/2-Stars
July 7, 2021
2.5/5 stars
This did too much rehashing of events that took place during A Scot to the Heart. I definitely wanted more from this.
This did too much rehashing of events that took place during A Scot to the Heart. I definitely wanted more from this.
July 3, 2021
Agnes St. James has no wealth, no status, and no suitors. Thankfully, she’s happy with her family, her friends, and her beloved shop, the place to buy fine silks in Edinburgh. Felix Duncan has a thriving legal career, connections, and ambition. Both are happy with their lives, until their paths cross, and suddenly both realize they want more. Agnes is astonished and thrilled that such a charming, handsome fellow is flirting with her. Felix is astonished and bowled over that his friend’s younger sister has grown into such a clever beauty. Things are progressing well until a scandalous indiscretion and a shocking inheritance threaten to spoil any chance of happily-ever-after.
I really liked both Felix & Agnes when we met them in the previous book & so glad they had their story from their point of view. A fun, entertaining novella, which is best read after the full length novel. I was enthralled by their journey to a HEA, which was put in jeopardy by misunderstandings.
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
I really liked both Felix & Agnes when we met them in the previous book & so glad they had their story from their point of view. A fun, entertaining novella, which is best read after the full length novel. I was enthralled by their journey to a HEA, which was put in jeopardy by misunderstandings.
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
July 12, 2021
A very enjoyable story. Loved Felix best. Good storyline and characters, although we did meet the same characters in the first book. Overall, I preferred this story to #1. 4☆
July 31, 2021
A sweet read. As a stand-alone novella I would rate it more like 3 stars, as it depends quite a bit on plot points established in the full-length novella about Drew and Ilsa. There are slightly awkward paragraphs that skim major events happening in the other story. As a companion I rate it higher; it’s fun to know the context of Agnes and Felix’s fraught interactions.
September 27, 2021
*2.5 stars ✨
I read this too close after reading the second book. There was too much rehashing of that book for me to enjoy this one. And I was expecting them to be more fun and angsty.
I read this too close after reading the second book. There was too much rehashing of that book for me to enjoy this one. And I was expecting them to be more fun and angsty.
September 30, 2021
I think because it was a novella, the pace was on point. Everything happening quickly but not too quick, and I really enjoyed not having to slog through a bunch of nonsense to get to the HEA. Agnes and Felix were funny, interesting and their connection together was strong. I appreciated that this book helped fill in the gaps of what book 2 alluded to. I very much enjoyed this.
July 5, 2021
An entertaining romance that runs concurrently with A Scot to the Heart, Agnes St. James has been attracted to Felix Duncan ever since she was a young girl. He is her brother's best friend and when their world imploded, Felix was there to give her brother Andrew his support. Years later, the paths in their lives keep crossing and Felix is totally smitten by Agnes. After an unfortunate incident, where they both made mistakes, they found it difficult to even look at each other. However, with her brother's impending inheritance, Felix and Agnes are once again thrown together and it takes a maze to force them to talk to one another again. As events unfold in her brother's life, Agnes depends more and more on Felix, bringing them to a place where they recognize they cannot live without each other. I found this novel sweet with just the right amount of tension and anxiety to make the plot interesting and I was glad that the couple resolved their differences. Although part of a series this romance is a standalone and comes to a good conclusion. I received a copy of this book as a gift and this is my honest and voluntary review.
May 10, 2021
Wonderful story of a misunderstanding that could keep Agnes St. James and Felix Duncan from finding their HEA. Felix is best friends with Agnes' brother, but is surprised to find her all grown up and everything he wants. Things between them start off great and then...This is a companion novella to A Scot to the Heart and often repeats parts of that story, but from Agnes and Duncan's point of view. Loved it.
July 8, 2021
Hat mir fast noch besser gefallen als die Hauptstory. Agnes und Felix sind einfach so sweet...
July 8, 2021
Cuuuuuute af
July 31, 2022
3.5*
Kindle e-book-own
180 pages-quick read
ties in w/book #2, A Scot to the Heart
Agnes and Felix
Kindle e-book-own
180 pages-quick read
ties in w/book #2, A Scot to the Heart
Agnes and Felix
July 5, 2021
Book: HOW THE SCOT WAS WON
By Caroline Linden
Series: Desperately Seeking Duke, Book #2.5
Release Date: July 6, 2021
Book Rating: 5/5 stars
Blog Rating: 5/5 Saltire Flags
1787, Edinburgh, Scotland
Agnes St. James had been living an acceptable life running her family’s silk shop in Edinburgh as she had her family, friends, and her new friend and widow Ilsa Ramsay. Of course she isn’t aware that her new friend and older brother are attracted to each other. Now Agnes has no money, title, and has never even courted or flirted with a lad. This all changes when her brother’s boyhood friend, Felix Duncan re-enters her life at a local coffee shop.
Felix Duncan has a successful legal career as a prominent lawyer, clients and a partner. The one thing he doesn’t have is a wife. Unfortunately his father wants him to make a match with a wealthy friend’s daughter he has no desire for. The one woman he does want - he has destroyed with a scandalous indiscretion, when they both had drank too many spirits, includinga boggled wedding proposal when he was ill with fever. Now the one woman he wants more than any other won’t even talk to him.
How can Felix smooth everything over and prove Agnes St. James is the only woman who owns his heart? Agnes and Felix are like a moth to a flame as their attraction is so strong but there are a few bumps on the road to love that needs to be smoothed out. Will Agnes forgive Felix for humiliating her and trying to rescue her with a horrible marriage proposal? Will Agnes ever give Felix a second chance? Read and find out!
A wonderful novella following “A Scot to the Heart” novel I definitely recommend reading that book first. Both are delightful stories that absolutely swept me away. I definitely recommend this book where both characters are introduced and are secondary characters in “A Scot to the Heart.” Again Ms. Linden draws me into both characters story in this book and I felt for both the hero and heroine and wondered how they would obtain a happily ever after. I loved that all the characters from “A Scot to the Heart” were in this book it. It also read more like a full length novel than a short story or novella as this book is one hundred and seventy-eight pages long . Caroline Linden is an extremely talented bestselling storyteller that I highly recommend. I absolutely loved this tale. A book not to be missed that historical romance readers will love!
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy from the author. I voluntarily agreed to do a fair review and blog. All thoughts, ideas and words are my own.
Buy Links:
https://www.amazon.com/How-Scot-Was-W...
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/how-...
https://books.apple.com/us/book/how-t...
https://play.google.com/store/books/d...
https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/how-...
By Caroline Linden
Series: Desperately Seeking Duke, Book #2.5
Release Date: July 6, 2021
Book Rating: 5/5 stars
Blog Rating: 5/5 Saltire Flags
1787, Edinburgh, Scotland
Agnes St. James had been living an acceptable life running her family’s silk shop in Edinburgh as she had her family, friends, and her new friend and widow Ilsa Ramsay. Of course she isn’t aware that her new friend and older brother are attracted to each other. Now Agnes has no money, title, and has never even courted or flirted with a lad. This all changes when her brother’s boyhood friend, Felix Duncan re-enters her life at a local coffee shop.
Felix Duncan has a successful legal career as a prominent lawyer, clients and a partner. The one thing he doesn’t have is a wife. Unfortunately his father wants him to make a match with a wealthy friend’s daughter he has no desire for. The one woman he does want - he has destroyed with a scandalous indiscretion, when they both had drank too many spirits, includinga boggled wedding proposal when he was ill with fever. Now the one woman he wants more than any other won’t even talk to him.
How can Felix smooth everything over and prove Agnes St. James is the only woman who owns his heart? Agnes and Felix are like a moth to a flame as their attraction is so strong but there are a few bumps on the road to love that needs to be smoothed out. Will Agnes forgive Felix for humiliating her and trying to rescue her with a horrible marriage proposal? Will Agnes ever give Felix a second chance? Read and find out!
A wonderful novella following “A Scot to the Heart” novel I definitely recommend reading that book first. Both are delightful stories that absolutely swept me away. I definitely recommend this book where both characters are introduced and are secondary characters in “A Scot to the Heart.” Again Ms. Linden draws me into both characters story in this book and I felt for both the hero and heroine and wondered how they would obtain a happily ever after. I loved that all the characters from “A Scot to the Heart” were in this book it. It also read more like a full length novel than a short story or novella as this book is one hundred and seventy-eight pages long . Caroline Linden is an extremely talented bestselling storyteller that I highly recommend. I absolutely loved this tale. A book not to be missed that historical romance readers will love!
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy from the author. I voluntarily agreed to do a fair review and blog. All thoughts, ideas and words are my own.
Buy Links:
https://www.amazon.com/How-Scot-Was-W...
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/how-...
https://books.apple.com/us/book/how-t...
https://play.google.com/store/books/d...
https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/how-...
June 30, 2021
I read this novella in an ARC copy.
It features the romance of the Best Friends of the hero and heroine of A Scot to the Heart. This romance actually begins a bit before the events of the main novel. Agnes is the sister of Drew St. James, the hero of A Scot to the Heart, she is as a child, acquainted with his best friend Felix Duncan, the only surviving son of a well-respected Edinburgh barrister. The St.Jameses are involved in the fabric trade and run a moderately successful shop selling fine silks and linens to ladies of the town.
When their father dies with a great deal of debt, Drew leaves to join the Army to send money back to help them keep the shop and support themselves. Before Drew leaves, Felix comes with an offer of help from his father, but is turned away by Drew, who doesn’t want to owe anyone anything. Agnes, the eldest girl of three, loves helping her mother with the shop and together they bring it back to solvency, though it is never hugely profitable.
Agnes becomes best friends with Ilsa Ramsay, the heroine of A Scot to the Heart, and the two of them often take tea at a local shop together. It is there that she becomes reacquainted with Felix, when he buys currant buns for her and her friend to go with their tea. Ilsa is tremendously beautiful, so Agnes is certain she is the one who has caught Felix’s interest, but he is actually flirting with Agnes. They encounter one another at the tea shop often and their interest blossoms.
Agnes and Felix run into each other at a party and drunken hijinx ensue leading to mutually desired sexual encounter that goes too far for a well brought up girl like Agnes, and which Felix is too drunk to clearly remember, though he knows he should offer for her. Their budding relationship is soured leading to the events that unfold in A Scot to the Heart and the rest of this novella.
There is a legitimate misunderstanding here and completely wonderful character-driven conflict. This absolutely arises out of people knowing their own worth and thinking the other person doesn’t value them. Watching them clear it up and realize they truly belong together is very entertaining and you feel their HEA is earned. In some ways, I liked this pairing even more than Ilsa and Drew’s romance. It’s a very strong companion to the main novel and well-worth reading.
It features the romance of the Best Friends of the hero and heroine of A Scot to the Heart. This romance actually begins a bit before the events of the main novel. Agnes is the sister of Drew St. James, the hero of A Scot to the Heart, she is as a child, acquainted with his best friend Felix Duncan, the only surviving son of a well-respected Edinburgh barrister. The St.Jameses are involved in the fabric trade and run a moderately successful shop selling fine silks and linens to ladies of the town.
When their father dies with a great deal of debt, Drew leaves to join the Army to send money back to help them keep the shop and support themselves. Before Drew leaves, Felix comes with an offer of help from his father, but is turned away by Drew, who doesn’t want to owe anyone anything. Agnes, the eldest girl of three, loves helping her mother with the shop and together they bring it back to solvency, though it is never hugely profitable.
Agnes becomes best friends with Ilsa Ramsay, the heroine of A Scot to the Heart, and the two of them often take tea at a local shop together. It is there that she becomes reacquainted with Felix, when he buys currant buns for her and her friend to go with their tea. Ilsa is tremendously beautiful, so Agnes is certain she is the one who has caught Felix’s interest, but he is actually flirting with Agnes. They encounter one another at the tea shop often and their interest blossoms.
Agnes and Felix run into each other at a party and drunken hijinx ensue leading to mutually desired sexual encounter that goes too far for a well brought up girl like Agnes, and which Felix is too drunk to clearly remember, though he knows he should offer for her. Their budding relationship is soured leading to the events that unfold in A Scot to the Heart and the rest of this novella.
There is a legitimate misunderstanding here and completely wonderful character-driven conflict. This absolutely arises out of people knowing their own worth and thinking the other person doesn’t value them. Watching them clear it up and realize they truly belong together is very entertaining and you feel their HEA is earned. In some ways, I liked this pairing even more than Ilsa and Drew’s romance. It’s a very strong companion to the main novel and well-worth reading.
July 14, 2021
Agnes St. James loves her family’s silk shop, and it’s basically what has supported herself, her two sisters, and her mother. When Agnes’ father died, the family found out that they were in very poor financial shape. Her older brother, Andrew, enlisted immediately, and sends them whatever money he can. When Agnes encounters Felix Duncan, a childhood friend of her brother’s, she’s very impressed by the man he has become. Felix is now an attorney, and is equally charmed by his old friend’s younger sister. The couple begins to casually meet, liking each other more with every encounter. It appears they are on a steady road to courtship, until “the incident” happens.
Felix and Agnes meet at the Assembly Rooms, where Agnes has already had a couple glasses of wine and some spiked punch. When Felix is about to join his friends for some clandestine whisky drinking, Agnes asks to come along. They both show really poor judgment, as Agnes also asks to take part in the drinking, and Felix allows it. Both of them become more than a little soused, and sneak off to indulge in some sensual activity neither would have done if they were sober.
The next day brings guilt, remorse, regrets, a dutiful proposal, and an angry refusal. The fledgling romance which seemed so promising has now crumbled. HOW THE SCOT WAS WON is a novella which is really a companion to A SCOT TO THE HEART, which is the story of Agnes’ brother Andrew, and his ascension to becoming a duke’s heir. I found that as I finished this novella, I was eager to read Andrew’s story. I believe the two can be read in any order, as they happen at the same time. Both Felix and Agnes made mistakes in their actions, but their affection and attraction was genuine. Felix had some work to do to get back in Agnes’ good graces, while she had to admit that she wasn’t blameless in their disastrous evening, as well as the following day. I enjoyed how they reconciled, especially how Felix didn’t judge Agnes harshly, as most men would have done. Their reconciliation was sweet, and HOW THE SCOT WAS WON made for an entertaining, somewhat unusual, but enjoyable read.
Felix and Agnes meet at the Assembly Rooms, where Agnes has already had a couple glasses of wine and some spiked punch. When Felix is about to join his friends for some clandestine whisky drinking, Agnes asks to come along. They both show really poor judgment, as Agnes also asks to take part in the drinking, and Felix allows it. Both of them become more than a little soused, and sneak off to indulge in some sensual activity neither would have done if they were sober.
The next day brings guilt, remorse, regrets, a dutiful proposal, and an angry refusal. The fledgling romance which seemed so promising has now crumbled. HOW THE SCOT WAS WON is a novella which is really a companion to A SCOT TO THE HEART, which is the story of Agnes’ brother Andrew, and his ascension to becoming a duke’s heir. I found that as I finished this novella, I was eager to read Andrew’s story. I believe the two can be read in any order, as they happen at the same time. Both Felix and Agnes made mistakes in their actions, but their affection and attraction was genuine. Felix had some work to do to get back in Agnes’ good graces, while she had to admit that she wasn’t blameless in their disastrous evening, as well as the following day. I enjoyed how they reconciled, especially how Felix didn’t judge Agnes harshly, as most men would have done. Their reconciliation was sweet, and HOW THE SCOT WAS WON made for an entertaining, somewhat unusual, but enjoyable read.
July 15, 2021
How the Scot was Won is a companion novella to A Scot the Heart. It’s about ASTTH’s secondary character, Agnes St. James (hero’s sister) & Felix Duncan (hero’s friend).
I fell in love with Agnes & Felix in Scot to the Heart, and was so excited to see them get their own story — especially since I didn’t have too long for it! They started off as side characters, both of them kind of feel like the underdog (especially Agnes who thinks herself plain compared to her sisters or beautiful and charming friend, Isla), plus they’re a little awkward, and all of that makes them that much more endearing and relatable. They definitely got their signals crossed a lot, but I really loved their sweet, almost shy attraction. And Felix is an adorable cinnamon roll and beta hero. He’s an attorney so instead of using his fists (or his sexy broad shoulders) to fight for his friends, he uses the law and his intellect. Yep. Nerds are hot.
The fact that their story takes place at the same time as Drew & Isla’s is really my only issue. You’ll want to read Scot to the Heart to fill in the (small) gaps this book leaves out, but I also found myself skimming over the scenes and plot points that were already familiar. But it’s a novella, so a quick read, and just the right length to let you know what all Agnes & Felix were up to (in the maze) while Drew & Isla were figuring their stuff out.
I fell in love with Agnes & Felix in Scot to the Heart, and was so excited to see them get their own story — especially since I didn’t have too long for it! They started off as side characters, both of them kind of feel like the underdog (especially Agnes who thinks herself plain compared to her sisters or beautiful and charming friend, Isla), plus they’re a little awkward, and all of that makes them that much more endearing and relatable. They definitely got their signals crossed a lot, but I really loved their sweet, almost shy attraction. And Felix is an adorable cinnamon roll and beta hero. He’s an attorney so instead of using his fists (or his sexy broad shoulders) to fight for his friends, he uses the law and his intellect. Yep. Nerds are hot.
The fact that their story takes place at the same time as Drew & Isla’s is really my only issue. You’ll want to read Scot to the Heart to fill in the (small) gaps this book leaves out, but I also found myself skimming over the scenes and plot points that were already familiar. But it’s a novella, so a quick read, and just the right length to let you know what all Agnes & Felix were up to (in the maze) while Drew & Isla were figuring their stuff out.
April 17, 2022
Reasons for a five star review:
1. since I am an academic who was faculty for 8 years at Yale, to encourage the author (alumnae of rival Harvard;
2. to encourage dedicated audiobook consumers to make the effort to do this book, for which there is no professionally performed audiobook (sighhhhhh....), so use you screen reading app or Kindle read aloud and do this book;
3. To encourage readers to do do this book now, so they are ready for #3 in the series, to be released in a fortnight (April 2022)
4. good story with the right amount of sex, plot, etc.
I recommend this series be done in order since story continues throughout series with a bit of overlap, as each entry in the series shifts perspective from one character to another.
This series follows the issues of a dukedom which needs functional heirs. While each installment in the series contains a complete romance, some duke seat related threads bind the entire series; hopefully, to be resolved in #3 All the Duke I Need to be released April 26, 2022.
Notes to author:
1. Good job!
2. I like more history in my historic romances, i.e. Gabaldon
3. Don't forget to nudge your publishers to do audio versions of you ×.5 entries in your series. Some audiobook consumers won't start a series where only some of the series are available in audiobook form.
1. since I am an academic who was faculty for 8 years at Yale, to encourage the author (alumnae of rival Harvard;
2. to encourage dedicated audiobook consumers to make the effort to do this book, for which there is no professionally performed audiobook (sighhhhhh....), so use you screen reading app or Kindle read aloud and do this book;
3. To encourage readers to do do this book now, so they are ready for #3 in the series, to be released in a fortnight (April 2022)
4. good story with the right amount of sex, plot, etc.
I recommend this series be done in order since story continues throughout series with a bit of overlap, as each entry in the series shifts perspective from one character to another.
This series follows the issues of a dukedom which needs functional heirs. While each installment in the series contains a complete romance, some duke seat related threads bind the entire series; hopefully, to be resolved in #3 All the Duke I Need to be released April 26, 2022.
Notes to author:
1. Good job!
2. I like more history in my historic romances, i.e. Gabaldon
3. Don't forget to nudge your publishers to do audio versions of you ×.5 entries in your series. Some audiobook consumers won't start a series where only some of the series are available in audiobook form.
July 8, 2021
This is the story of Felix Duncan and Agnes St. James. We met Felix and Agnes in A Scot to the Heart. Felix is Drew’s (hero of A Scot to the Heart) best friend and Agnes is Drew’s sister. He renews his acquaintance with the St. James Family when Drew returns to town with unexpected news. Before long it was obvious that Felix and Agnes were attracted to each other. Then, after a night of fun at the Assembly Rooms (a bit of whiskey and time alone), everything changed. They didn’t speak; they wouldn’t even look at each other. Now everyone is trying to discover what happened. Well, it seems Felix isn’t as good at romance as he is at law. It wasn’t what he said to Agnes that broke her heart, but the way he said it. How is he supposed to fix the mess he’s made?
This is a fun story. It puts most of the stress and drama of A Scot to the Heart in the background and lets the reader get to know Felix and Agnes better. He is a successful lawyer. She is independent and wishes to become a successful businesswoman. They have wonderful chemistry and are a fantastic pair. Even when they don’t think things and make mistakes, they still want to be together. A cute story with likeable characters. HEA? You bet. I enjoyed and recommend How the Scot Was Won.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
This is a fun story. It puts most of the stress and drama of A Scot to the Heart in the background and lets the reader get to know Felix and Agnes better. He is a successful lawyer. She is independent and wishes to become a successful businesswoman. They have wonderful chemistry and are a fantastic pair. Even when they don’t think things and make mistakes, they still want to be together. A cute story with likeable characters. HEA? You bet. I enjoyed and recommend How the Scot Was Won.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
July 10, 2021
Felix Duncan is a successful Edinburgh lawyer who also happens to be close friends with Andrew St James (newly discovered heir to the Duke of Carlyle). Felix and Drew were close from the time they were children when they were coached in golf and other sports by Drew’s father - back before Drew’s life fell apart. Drew’s sister Agnes had always caught his attention as children, but, as an adult, she mesmerizes him. He is totally smitten. Except, somehow, he seems to always put the wrong foot forward when it comes.
Meeting Agnes at a local coffeehouse, Felix is completely smitten.
Meeting Agnes at the assembly rooms and enjoying a night of drinking and flirting. Felix ends up compromising Agnes.
The next morning he visits Agnes and makes the worse marriage proposal ever. Agnes rejects him and tells him she no longer wants anything to do him.
After a series of mishaps, Felix realizes he has to work on regaining Agnes trust.
During a visit to a local manor Agnes' family and few friends spend a couple weeks together exploring the area. Felix uses this time to find away back in good graces.
A great companion novella with characters introduced in A Scot to the Heart.
Meeting Agnes at a local coffeehouse, Felix is completely smitten.
Meeting Agnes at the assembly rooms and enjoying a night of drinking and flirting. Felix ends up compromising Agnes.
The next morning he visits Agnes and makes the worse marriage proposal ever. Agnes rejects him and tells him she no longer wants anything to do him.
After a series of mishaps, Felix realizes he has to work on regaining Agnes trust.
During a visit to a local manor Agnes' family and few friends spend a couple weeks together exploring the area. Felix uses this time to find away back in good graces.
A great companion novella with characters introduced in A Scot to the Heart.
June 21, 2021
Oh my goodness, Agnes and her beau, Felix, are a lot of trouble. People around them can see the attraction and in general approve of them as a couple. These two have a terrific evening together, drunk, and them bumble it. Felix needs a lesson in what a girl wants, needs it so much. Agnes gets her back up, justified completely. Felix's idea of a proposal is, well it's bad. Having a coherent conversation is sooo not happening here. I wanted to smack their heads together. This is all good because it means I became invested in their story. When I got to their HEA All I could have jumped for joy. They are perfect for each other and the smokin' hot love scenes are delightful. I'm giving you a little tidbit, The Scot to be won is Agnes. Topsy truvy from our usual storyline. Will there be HEA's for the other sisters? The mother really needs one, please let her be happy.
#CarolineLinden #HowTheScotWasWon #DesperatelySeelingDuke #BookFunnel #ScotRomance #HistoricalRomance #Romance
#CarolineLinden #HowTheScotWasWon #DesperatelySeelingDuke #BookFunnel #ScotRomance #HistoricalRomance #Romance
June 21, 2021
This is a novella that goes along with the previous (second) book in the series. It basically tells the same story as its predecessor but from a different couple’s (Agnes’s & Felix’s) perspective/lives.
Felix is a friend of Agnes’s older brother that she’s known since childhood. As adults they are attracted to each other, but one night of uncharacteristic behavior on both their parts causes a rift/misunderstanding that both must overcome for their HEA.
While yes, this was a retelling of “A Scot to the Heart”, it was interesting to approach it from this couple’s view and through their own burgeoning relationship. They were both likable, passionate characters, and their love story was sweet and somehow (at least to me) a bit old fashioned, which I found refreshing.
Cute couple, lovely story, enjoyable read.
Much thanks to the author for providing me the free early arc for review. The opinions are strictly my own.
Felix is a friend of Agnes’s older brother that she’s known since childhood. As adults they are attracted to each other, but one night of uncharacteristic behavior on both their parts causes a rift/misunderstanding that both must overcome for their HEA.
While yes, this was a retelling of “A Scot to the Heart”, it was interesting to approach it from this couple’s view and through their own burgeoning relationship. They were both likable, passionate characters, and their love story was sweet and somehow (at least to me) a bit old fashioned, which I found refreshing.
Cute couple, lovely story, enjoyable read.
Much thanks to the author for providing me the free early arc for review. The opinions are strictly my own.
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