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The Secret Crusaders #1
Escaping the Duke
Ignore powerful dukes who sabotage your plans.
Welcome to book 1 in the debut series, The Secret Crusaders, from the talented Melanie Rose Clarke!
Priscilla Livingston has dedicated her life to social causes, fighting to right the cruel injustices the world ignores. Under the guise of a lord, she sends messages to Edmund Hawkins, the powerful Duke of Bradenton. He doesn’t know his informant is a lady, even as he investigates to uncover her identity. When her father demands she find a husband, she cannot choose Edmund, who would demand total surrender.
But when he catches her spying, she may not have a choice.
Edmund is intrigued by the beautiful lady caught snooping through a dangerous lord’s home. Lady Priscilla may act the perfect duke’s daughter, but fiery mystery burns beneath the flawless façade. He sees the passion she cannot hide, the spirited woman who would make the perfect duchess. He will discover her every secret.
Then, he will make her his.
Welcome to book 1 in the debut series, The Secret Crusaders, from the talented Melanie Rose Clarke!
Priscilla Livingston has dedicated her life to social causes, fighting to right the cruel injustices the world ignores. Under the guise of a lord, she sends messages to Edmund Hawkins, the powerful Duke of Bradenton. He doesn’t know his informant is a lady, even as he investigates to uncover her identity. When her father demands she find a husband, she cannot choose Edmund, who would demand total surrender.
But when he catches her spying, she may not have a choice.
Edmund is intrigued by the beautiful lady caught snooping through a dangerous lord’s home. Lady Priscilla may act the perfect duke’s daughter, but fiery mystery burns beneath the flawless façade. He sees the passion she cannot hide, the spirited woman who would make the perfect duchess. He will discover her every secret.
Then, he will make her his.
312 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 17, 2021
311 people are currently reading
727 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 199 reviews
October 15, 2021
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Plot/Storyline: 📖📖📖
Feels: 🦋🦋🦋
Emotional Depth: 💔💔💔
Sexual Tension: ⚡⚡⚡
Romance: 💞 💞💞
Sensuality: 💋💋💋
Sex Scene Length: 🍑
Steam Scale (Number of Sex Scenes): 🔥
Humor: Yes! Quite a bit.
(These are all personal preference on a scale of 1-5 (yours ratings may vary depending what gives you feels and how you prefer you sex scenes written, etc) except the Steam Scale which follows our chart from The Ton and the Tartans facebook group.)
Should I read in order?
This is book 1 of the series, but I wanted to note there is also a novella to begin this series, At the Duke’s Command. I haven’t read it yet to know how much it ties in to the series and characters, but I think it’s fine to skip if you wanted.
Basic plot
Human rights are very important to Priscilla. Being a woman, she has no vote in parliament, but she has found that she can influence others through research, investigation and conversation. She has created an alternate identity, Lord P, and is in communication with Edmund, the Duke of Bradenton.
Edmund has decided he’s ready to marry and Priscilla is one woman that has caught his eye. As he tries to get to know her, she pushes back at him, but it only intrigues him more, until she’s the only woman he wants.
Give this a try if you want:
- Regency time period – This book takes place in 1817
- Lots of London action – balls and social calls take precedence in the plot
- Hero does the chasing – he decides he is intrigued by her early on, and he’s known for getting what he wants
- You want humor! This book has quite a few light hearted scenes and plenty of funny one liners and running jokes throughout the story
- You prefer low steam – this book has 1 full scene that is not explicit, but there’s a decent amount of kisses :)
- You like letter writing to be a part of the story – Each chapter begins with a correspondence between Priscilla and Edmund
My thoughts:
There was a lot I really enjoyed about this story. The humor was welcome and I even snickered out lout a couple times, which doesn’t happen very often anymore.
I enjoyed Priscilla and that she was driven by purpose to help society. She uses her position as a duke’s daughter to help where she can. I like that she didn’t have a problem standing up to Edmund and she seemed like a great match for him. I do think she kind of made problems for herself that didn’t exist though, especially in regards to her relationship with Edmund. And I struggled a bit with her drawing a line between ‘being controlled’ and ‘being able to do whatever she wants’. I do get she fights for rights, and it’s hard for me, with all of my freedoms, to relate to the experience of a woman in the 1800s. But sometimes she came off to me like safety didn’t matter. I adore my husband and we have a partnership. But if he was like hey I’m going to go do this super dangerous and irresponsible thing I would tell him no! Because I care about him and don’t want him to die, not because I want to control him and treat him like he has no rights. So I found myself disagreeing with some of her mentality regarding that. I was also a touch confused on how her grandmother was such a strong person and set Priscilla up for how she has the power to change the world but then she doesn’t realize her own mother would embrace that side of her? I guess Priscilla just comes off a bit naive to me – which she does realize after getting herself into trouble towards the end of the book. That’s where she realizes there’s a safety aspect to giving guidance to what one is allowed to do.
I definitely enjoyed Edmund. He’s my kind of hero. He is confident, yet kind. He knows what he wants and goes after it. I enjoyed his interactions with Priscilla, especially as he became more certain he wanted her as a wife. Seriously, WHERE are all the men that want to marry??? I was so so happy to see this in a plotline. I have been picking up too many lately that the hero is broken and he can never marry or love. I really enjoyed that he embraced that emotion. It may have taken him awhile to recognize it, but once he did he didn’t deny it or run from it.
I do think some of the story kind of felt like we were having the same conversation a few times, with Edmund and Priscilla. They were going in circles and it took awhile to get off that roundabout. Also, while funny, the vase joke was a touch overused. (The word vase is found over 60 times in the book!) Though it was all made right to me, when in fact, someone finally was beaned in the head with a vase. Lol.
So overall I definitely will be following this author’s work to see what she comes up with in the future! I think I’ll give the novella a read soon.
Here’s a few random parts that I wanted to note from the book
Content Warnings:
Locations of kisses/intimate scenes:
Plot/Storyline: 📖📖📖
Feels: 🦋🦋🦋
Emotional Depth: 💔💔💔
Sexual Tension: ⚡⚡⚡
Romance: 💞 💞💞
Sensuality: 💋💋💋
Sex Scene Length: 🍑
Steam Scale (Number of Sex Scenes): 🔥
Humor: Yes! Quite a bit.
(These are all personal preference on a scale of 1-5 (yours ratings may vary depending what gives you feels and how you prefer you sex scenes written, etc) except the Steam Scale which follows our chart from The Ton and the Tartans facebook group.)
Should I read in order?
This is book 1 of the series, but I wanted to note there is also a novella to begin this series, At the Duke’s Command. I haven’t read it yet to know how much it ties in to the series and characters, but I think it’s fine to skip if you wanted.
Basic plot
Human rights are very important to Priscilla. Being a woman, she has no vote in parliament, but she has found that she can influence others through research, investigation and conversation. She has created an alternate identity, Lord P, and is in communication with Edmund, the Duke of Bradenton.
Edmund has decided he’s ready to marry and Priscilla is one woman that has caught his eye. As he tries to get to know her, she pushes back at him, but it only intrigues him more, until she’s the only woman he wants.
Give this a try if you want:
- Regency time period – This book takes place in 1817
- Lots of London action – balls and social calls take precedence in the plot
- Hero does the chasing – he decides he is intrigued by her early on, and he’s known for getting what he wants
- You want humor! This book has quite a few light hearted scenes and plenty of funny one liners and running jokes throughout the story
- You prefer low steam – this book has 1 full scene that is not explicit, but there’s a decent amount of kisses :)
- You like letter writing to be a part of the story – Each chapter begins with a correspondence between Priscilla and Edmund
My thoughts:
There was a lot I really enjoyed about this story. The humor was welcome and I even snickered out lout a couple times, which doesn’t happen very often anymore.
I enjoyed Priscilla and that she was driven by purpose to help society. She uses her position as a duke’s daughter to help where she can. I like that she didn’t have a problem standing up to Edmund and she seemed like a great match for him. I do think she kind of made problems for herself that didn’t exist though, especially in regards to her relationship with Edmund. And I struggled a bit with her drawing a line between ‘being controlled’ and ‘being able to do whatever she wants’. I do get she fights for rights, and it’s hard for me, with all of my freedoms, to relate to the experience of a woman in the 1800s. But sometimes she came off to me like safety didn’t matter. I adore my husband and we have a partnership. But if he was like hey I’m going to go do this super dangerous and irresponsible thing I would tell him no! Because I care about him and don’t want him to die, not because I want to control him and treat him like he has no rights. So I found myself disagreeing with some of her mentality regarding that. I was also a touch confused on how her grandmother was such a strong person and set Priscilla up for how she has the power to change the world but then she doesn’t realize her own mother would embrace that side of her? I guess Priscilla just comes off a bit naive to me – which she does realize after getting herself into trouble towards the end of the book. That’s where she realizes there’s a safety aspect to giving guidance to what one is allowed to do.
I definitely enjoyed Edmund. He’s my kind of hero. He is confident, yet kind. He knows what he wants and goes after it. I enjoyed his interactions with Priscilla, especially as he became more certain he wanted her as a wife. Seriously, WHERE are all the men that want to marry??? I was so so happy to see this in a plotline. I have been picking up too many lately that the hero is broken and he can never marry or love. I really enjoyed that he embraced that emotion. It may have taken him awhile to recognize it, but once he did he didn’t deny it or run from it.
I do think some of the story kind of felt like we were having the same conversation a few times, with Edmund and Priscilla. They were going in circles and it took awhile to get off that roundabout. Also, while funny, the vase joke was a touch overused. (The word vase is found over 60 times in the book!) Though it was all made right to me, when in fact, someone finally was beaned in the head with a vase. Lol.
So overall I definitely will be following this author’s work to see what she comes up with in the future! I think I’ll give the novella a read soon.
Here’s a few random parts that I wanted to note from the book
Content Warnings:
Locations of kisses/intimate scenes:
February 8, 2023
Why would you want to escape him???
I really liked the hero and I just kind of liked the heroine. She was so stubborn and he was so lordly!! Lol. They were both fighting for social reform. Working together but not knowing that. The book dragged a little in parts but I did love the letters between each other when they didn't know who they were, and then those after they did in that last chapter. It was a very sweet scene. The heroine annoyed me a little bit and I just wanted her to accept him. She was so obstinate and I really couldn't believe that it took so long to get together. Until the end of the book actually. But it was still worth it and I look forward to reading her again.
I really liked the hero and I just kind of liked the heroine. She was so stubborn and he was so lordly!! Lol. They were both fighting for social reform. Working together but not knowing that. The book dragged a little in parts but I did love the letters between each other when they didn't know who they were, and then those after they did in that last chapter. It was a very sweet scene. The heroine annoyed me a little bit and I just wanted her to accept him. She was so obstinate and I really couldn't believe that it took so long to get together. Until the end of the book actually. But it was still worth it and I look forward to reading her again.
June 14, 2021
A delightfully witty romance, I found this novel entertaining and it had my undivided attention once I started reading. Driven by the memory of her grandmother reaching out to save a newborn baby, Lady Priscilla has devoted her life to changing the lives of the poor. In her quest to bring about social change, she discovers in the Duke of Bradenton a man who stands in Parliament as a beacon of hope. The letters she writes to him disguised as a man, result in a friendship born out of mutual respect. However, Priscilla is under no illusion that should she succumb to a marriage with him, her activities will be severely curtailed. The more Priscilla avoids Edmund, the more intrigued he becomes by the lady who is intent on hiding behind the facade of a vacuous society lady. His investigations into his anonymous correspondent and Lady Priscilla lead him on a merry chase and down some dark alleys tool, and as the truth emerges, Edmund realizes that if he wants to capture Priscilla as his bride, he will have to adjust his own way of thinking. When I came to the end of this enchanting novel, I found I was unable to pick up another book in my TBR pile, as it would have surely broken the spell I was under. This is the first book I have read by this author and I am looking forward to reading more of her work. I received a copy of this delightful romance through Dragonblade Publishing and NetGalley and this is my honest and voluntary review.
March 29, 2022
It had promise
I struggled to finish this book, yet forced myself. The book had promise but there was so much fodder and nonsense that it was hard to read. I would love to read about Emma and Hannah, but I think this will be my last and only book by this author. This didn’t read as a historical romance to me. A lot of the references towards specific items and such were preset day. Also some of the slang used did not match the period as well. Very hard to imagine the setting of a historical romance when one kept thinking of their high school experiences due to the verbiage used. AND the mention of vases was a constant eye sore. Yes, some references were cute but it would have been a blessing to have gone at least 1-3 chapters without having to read about them.
I struggled to finish this book, yet forced myself. The book had promise but there was so much fodder and nonsense that it was hard to read. I would love to read about Emma and Hannah, but I think this will be my last and only book by this author. This didn’t read as a historical romance to me. A lot of the references towards specific items and such were preset day. Also some of the slang used did not match the period as well. Very hard to imagine the setting of a historical romance when one kept thinking of their high school experiences due to the verbiage used. AND the mention of vases was a constant eye sore. Yes, some references were cute but it would have been a blessing to have gone at least 1-3 chapters without having to read about them.
June 20, 2021
"Some people will say you can't do amazing things, Priscilla, just because you are a female. Do not ever believe them. You can do whatever you wish to do. You can save the world." Her grandmother had looked in her eye as she said the words. It was to frame Priscilla's life.
I absolutely adored this story! Laugh out loud moments, especially Priscilla's thoughts, a tangled web of deceit, albet for a good cause, and a merry chase between she and Bradenton!
So very glad to have read this first in a series and cannot wait for more!! Simply delightful....
I absolutely adored this story! Laugh out loud moments, especially Priscilla's thoughts, a tangled web of deceit, albet for a good cause, and a merry chase between she and Bradenton!
So very glad to have read this first in a series and cannot wait for more!! Simply delightful....
June 17, 2021
❤️❤️❤️❤️
💋💋
Witty and fun, I was addicted to reading this book.
It had such fun in every conceivable area, from the dialogue to the characters it was so enjoyable.
Not only were the main characters good, but it had some wonderful side characters that I really hope get their own stories told.
In all, written well and very satisfying.
I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review
💋💋
Witty and fun, I was addicted to reading this book.
It had such fun in every conceivable area, from the dialogue to the characters it was so enjoyable.
Not only were the main characters good, but it had some wonderful side characters that I really hope get their own stories told.
In all, written well and very satisfying.
I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review
March 7, 2022
Fighting for what’s right
I absolutely loved the story. Priscilla and Edmund were so much fun to read about. Her stubbornness and him wanting to be in command and protect what’s his. Pricilla has an alter ego as Lord P, the person who investigates and gathers I tell for Edmund so they can get unscrupulous Lords to change their votes for the great good. But how would Edmund feel when he finds out who Lord P really is. A beautiful story with a wonderful ending.
I absolutely loved the story. Priscilla and Edmund were so much fun to read about. Her stubbornness and him wanting to be in command and protect what’s his. Pricilla has an alter ego as Lord P, the person who investigates and gathers I tell for Edmund so they can get unscrupulous Lords to change their votes for the great good. But how would Edmund feel when he finds out who Lord P really is. A beautiful story with a wonderful ending.
November 6, 2021
Rating: 4.5/5.0
“Escaping the Duke” is a fun romp through the end of the Regency period. While women aren’t given a lot of liberty, if you are smart enough, you can champion your causes.
Read full review in the 2021 November issue of InD'tale Magazine.
“Escaping the Duke” is a fun romp through the end of the Regency period. While women aren’t given a lot of liberty, if you are smart enough, you can champion your causes.
Read full review in the 2021 November issue of InD'tale Magazine.
June 4, 2022
Current day political correct characters might suit some readers, but their perfectly perfect perfection was tedious and boring. While the story flowed well enough, I didn't enjoy these socially aware and oh so smugly righteous couple. Just not for me.
June 20, 2021
This novel was absolutely wonderful! Pricilla is a young lady with huge dreams - she wants to save the world and she's not afraid to get her hands dirty to achieve her goals. This season she is supposed to be courting eligible bachelors in hopes of finding a husband, except her aspirations lie elsewhere. Under the pen name Lord P, she has been secretly assisting and advising the Duke of Bradenton, Edmund, on social issues. Edmund spends the majority of this novel trying to unmask the notorious Lord P while also falling madly in love with Pricilla, not realizing they are one in the same.
This book was a glorious blend of mischief, passion, and comedy. I found myself laughing out loud whilst reading many of Pricilla's inner monologues. She was hilarious! The continuous joke regarding vases between our two lovers was one of my favorite parts of the novel. What I really appreciated above all else was Pricilla's promise to herself - she would not marry and sacrifice her dreams of making the world a better place. Although she loved Edmund, she didn't want to be selfish in that affection. She was constantly fighting an inner battle with herself regarding her feelings for him and who she would choose for a husband. Edmund never gave up on her, though. He fought for her until the very end, constantly proving himself in every way. He needed her to know what kind of man he was. That he was not the cruel and demanding Duke she believed him to be.
If you're looking for a comedic, sweet love story with low angst - this is the perfect novel for you! This historical romance brings us some of our favorite tropes: forced proximity, enemies to lovers, and many more. There are no explicit sex scenes, and although I do prefer a little more detail, I did not feel that anything was lost from our story. I loved the sweet stolen kisses and longing glances more than I thought I would. The passion between these two was evident. I am so excited for book 2 to release! Melanie Rose Clarke has found a new fan in me. 5 stars!
I received this ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This book was a glorious blend of mischief, passion, and comedy. I found myself laughing out loud whilst reading many of Pricilla's inner monologues. She was hilarious! The continuous joke regarding vases between our two lovers was one of my favorite parts of the novel. What I really appreciated above all else was Pricilla's promise to herself - she would not marry and sacrifice her dreams of making the world a better place. Although she loved Edmund, she didn't want to be selfish in that affection. She was constantly fighting an inner battle with herself regarding her feelings for him and who she would choose for a husband. Edmund never gave up on her, though. He fought for her until the very end, constantly proving himself in every way. He needed her to know what kind of man he was. That he was not the cruel and demanding Duke she believed him to be.
If you're looking for a comedic, sweet love story with low angst - this is the perfect novel for you! This historical romance brings us some of our favorite tropes: forced proximity, enemies to lovers, and many more. There are no explicit sex scenes, and although I do prefer a little more detail, I did not feel that anything was lost from our story. I loved the sweet stolen kisses and longing glances more than I thought I would. The passion between these two was evident. I am so excited for book 2 to release! Melanie Rose Clarke has found a new fan in me. 5 stars!
I received this ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
June 19, 2021
I received an Advance Reader Copy from the publisher. This in no way impacted on my view.
Ever since she witnessed her grandmother save a child's life, Lady Priscilla Livingston has done everything she could to help those in life who are ignored. But, as a woman, her choices are limited, so she creates the persona of 'Lord P', and acts as informant to Edmund Hawkins, the powerful Duke of Bradenton, who uses the information she discovers to help pass laws and enact change. However, her father has said she needs to marry, and when she thinks her plan to find a boring, and more importantly, busy, husband, here enters Edmund, who sets his sights on Priscilla, and won't be discouraged. Not even when he discovers that she's keeping secrets, and is potentially in danger; in fact, it spurs him on further. Will Priscilla be able to stick to her morals, and continue her good work, or will all be revealed?
I really enjoyed this book, and flew through it once I started it. Both Priscilla and Edmund were interesting characters, who we learnt more about as the book progressed. Both were from lofty and highly privileged backgrounds, as the daughter of a duke, and a duke himself, respectively, but cared about those most in society deem as 'lower' or 'unworthy'. They can see the world is changing, and society needs to be reformed to make it a better place, and even if they have to go to dangerous lengths to manage it, they will do. Their chemistry was unreal, and I loved the banter between them, and especially how conflicted Priscilla was about lying to Edmund about 'Lord P'. Their relationship was fantastic, and I can definitely see how Melanie is setting the scene for the following books in the series - hopefully about our couple's friends. I look forward to continuing the series!
Ever since she witnessed her grandmother save a child's life, Lady Priscilla Livingston has done everything she could to help those in life who are ignored. But, as a woman, her choices are limited, so she creates the persona of 'Lord P', and acts as informant to Edmund Hawkins, the powerful Duke of Bradenton, who uses the information she discovers to help pass laws and enact change. However, her father has said she needs to marry, and when she thinks her plan to find a boring, and more importantly, busy, husband, here enters Edmund, who sets his sights on Priscilla, and won't be discouraged. Not even when he discovers that she's keeping secrets, and is potentially in danger; in fact, it spurs him on further. Will Priscilla be able to stick to her morals, and continue her good work, or will all be revealed?
I really enjoyed this book, and flew through it once I started it. Both Priscilla and Edmund were interesting characters, who we learnt more about as the book progressed. Both were from lofty and highly privileged backgrounds, as the daughter of a duke, and a duke himself, respectively, but cared about those most in society deem as 'lower' or 'unworthy'. They can see the world is changing, and society needs to be reformed to make it a better place, and even if they have to go to dangerous lengths to manage it, they will do. Their chemistry was unreal, and I loved the banter between them, and especially how conflicted Priscilla was about lying to Edmund about 'Lord P'. Their relationship was fantastic, and I can definitely see how Melanie is setting the scene for the following books in the series - hopefully about our couple's friends. I look forward to continuing the series!
February 21, 2022
Beautiful
This is my first book from Melanie and I can only say that this story is simply devine. A determined duke and a unwilling Duke's daughter because she has a secret side that she hides from that same determined yet handsome aggravating duke. I laughed til I cried. I cried along with the characters. I loved each one of the characters. I definitely look forward to book 2.
Those poor vases
This is my first book from Melanie and I can only say that this story is simply devine. A determined duke and a unwilling Duke's daughter because she has a secret side that she hides from that same determined yet handsome aggravating duke. I laughed til I cried. I cried along with the characters. I loved each one of the characters. I definitely look forward to book 2.
Those poor vases
January 26, 2023
The first 2/3 of the book were actually good with a lot of chuckle-worthy situations and banter that was actually funny. The last part turned repetitive. The "secret" was so obvious yet the author kept dragging it out. Plus the last big scene was so absurd with the sudden villain and the words used made me doubt that part was written by the same author. It was farcical. Hence 3 stars.
March 3, 2024
Loved it
It was so hard to put the book down once I started. It is a page turner with all the feels. I even laugh out loud
It was so hard to put the book down once I started. It is a page turner with all the feels. I even laugh out loud
February 17, 2022
It’s a decent story line and very well written.
I struggled with the Edmund a lot as he claimed he didn’t want to lock her up or restrict/control her and implied he would give her choices but then pursued her relentlessly and wouldn’t give her the choice and wouldn’t listen to her at all. Almost felt like he was bullying her into marriage by threatening to expose a few things she’d done) He was just a bit too much of a contradiction and not that likeable in the end despite being sweet at times (like when he threatens the shop keeper for attacking the little boy) and championing good causes (wanting better working conditions for all)
He does relent and let her continue working to an extent with restrictions in the end, but the last chapter seemed a little rushed trying to explain the small change of heart.
I struggled with the Edmund a lot as he claimed he didn’t want to lock her up or restrict/control her and implied he would give her choices but then pursued her relentlessly and wouldn’t give her the choice and wouldn’t listen to her at all. Almost felt like he was bullying her into marriage by threatening to expose a few things she’d done) He was just a bit too much of a contradiction and not that likeable in the end despite being sweet at times (like when he threatens the shop keeper for attacking the little boy) and championing good causes (wanting better working conditions for all)
He does relent and let her continue working to an extent with restrictions in the end, but the last chapter seemed a little rushed trying to explain the small change of heart.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 1, 2021
An OK read
I did enjoy the Story, but some parts were aggravating. & repetitive, especially when she kept thinking about a vase. The H was so used to getting his way that he was obsessed with having to know everything that it was kinda off putting. In the end, I understood his opinion on the h sneaking around Lord's homes was dangerous for the h & let her know he was not happy about it.
I did enjoy the Story, but some parts were aggravating. & repetitive, especially when she kept thinking about a vase. The H was so used to getting his way that he was obsessed with having to know everything that it was kinda off putting. In the end, I understood his opinion on the h sneaking around Lord's homes was dangerous for the h & let her know he was not happy about it.
October 31, 2021
Took too long to come to her senses
I would have done a 4 star review if it wasn’t for how long the heroine takes to come to her senses. What she was asking from the beginning was impossible she has a way better chance of accomplishing her goals as a duchess than as she was or with her other suitors. It just seems that for the time for a lady to be that clueless is really bordering on TSTL
I would have done a 4 star review if it wasn’t for how long the heroine takes to come to her senses. What she was asking from the beginning was impossible she has a way better chance of accomplishing her goals as a duchess than as she was or with her other suitors. It just seems that for the time for a lady to be that clueless is really bordering on TSTL
June 15, 2021
4.5 Stars
Priscilla Livingston has dedicated her life to social causes ever since her Grandmother rescued a baby, Priscilla fights to right the cruel injustices the world ignores, under the guise of Lord P, she sends messages to Edmund Hawkins, the powerful Duke of Bradenton. He doesn’t know his informant is a lady, even as he investigates to uncover her identity. When her father demands she find a husband, she cannot choose Edmund, who would demand total surrender. Edmund is intrigued by the beautiful lady caught snooping through a dangerous lord’s home. Lady Priscilla may act the perfect duke’s daughter, but fiery mystery burns beneath the flawless façade. He sees the passion she cannot hide, the spirited woman who would make the perfect duchess. He will discover her every secret.
A new author & I thoroughly enjoyed what I believe is her debut novel. A well written book with strong characters. I loved both Edmund & Priscilla, he’s the powerful duke who is fiercely in favour of social reform but who is also very protective of those he cares for. Priscilla is also determined to continue to help those in need so when her father says she must marry she decides to choose a lord who has his own interests whether rocks, flowers or horses. I loved the banter between Edmund & Priscilla & also their attraction, which simmered & then sizzled. I also loved Priscilla’s two friends & Edmund's two friends & his sister so I hope they feature in future books. An engrossing read which I found very hard to put down
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
Priscilla Livingston has dedicated her life to social causes ever since her Grandmother rescued a baby, Priscilla fights to right the cruel injustices the world ignores, under the guise of Lord P, she sends messages to Edmund Hawkins, the powerful Duke of Bradenton. He doesn’t know his informant is a lady, even as he investigates to uncover her identity. When her father demands she find a husband, she cannot choose Edmund, who would demand total surrender. Edmund is intrigued by the beautiful lady caught snooping through a dangerous lord’s home. Lady Priscilla may act the perfect duke’s daughter, but fiery mystery burns beneath the flawless façade. He sees the passion she cannot hide, the spirited woman who would make the perfect duchess. He will discover her every secret.
A new author & I thoroughly enjoyed what I believe is her debut novel. A well written book with strong characters. I loved both Edmund & Priscilla, he’s the powerful duke who is fiercely in favour of social reform but who is also very protective of those he cares for. Priscilla is also determined to continue to help those in need so when her father says she must marry she decides to choose a lord who has his own interests whether rocks, flowers or horses. I loved the banter between Edmund & Priscilla & also their attraction, which simmered & then sizzled. I also loved Priscilla’s two friends & Edmund's two friends & his sister so I hope they feature in future books. An engrossing read which I found very hard to put down
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
June 14, 2021
-I received a copy of the book from NetGalley.
~My Thoughts
Escaping the Duke was certainly an interesting book. I was hooked throughout, and couldn't put down the book. The book was not only well-written, but also had a put that I personally enjoy very much.
Edmund and Priscilla had all the qualities that I like in the main leads. I loved the fact that Priscilla was adamant to support her dreams/goal, even if she had to give up her love. And the fact that she was not ready to surrender to Duke.
Edmund may have come off as high-handed, but in reality he is definitely a man that females would fall in love with. The ine thing that I really enjoyed about his character was the fact that he had a heart and was compassionate to all, rather than being a regular character that needs fixing.
The side charcaters were interesting in their own rights. I love Priscilla's friends alot.
The mention of the letters exchanged between Priscilla and Edmund was also a nice touch. However, I did find the ending a little abrupt.
All in all the book was very interesting, and I would recommend it to anybody who wants to read about soft hearted lords and stubborn ladies who will stop at nothing.
~My Thoughts
Escaping the Duke was certainly an interesting book. I was hooked throughout, and couldn't put down the book. The book was not only well-written, but also had a put that I personally enjoy very much.
Edmund and Priscilla had all the qualities that I like in the main leads. I loved the fact that Priscilla was adamant to support her dreams/goal, even if she had to give up her love. And the fact that she was not ready to surrender to Duke.
Edmund may have come off as high-handed, but in reality he is definitely a man that females would fall in love with. The ine thing that I really enjoyed about his character was the fact that he had a heart and was compassionate to all, rather than being a regular character that needs fixing.
The side charcaters were interesting in their own rights. I love Priscilla's friends alot.
The mention of the letters exchanged between Priscilla and Edmund was also a nice touch. However, I did find the ending a little abrupt.
All in all the book was very interesting, and I would recommend it to anybody who wants to read about soft hearted lords and stubborn ladies who will stop at nothing.
June 17, 2021
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This read was incredibly fun!
Priscilla Livingston is an awkward situation. She is looking for for a husband that will be too preoccupied with their hobbies to notice her social justice activities. Unfortunately (or rather very fortunately) one of her suitors is the handsome Edmund Hawkins. But he's off limits - because if he gets too close her secret will be in danger of being revealed... she's his informant who he only knows as Lord P.
The banter between Priscilla and Edmund is electric. They are both constantly in a tug and pull relationship. Though Priscilla tries to make him not like her it backfires as it reveals how much of a hilarious and charming person she is. And Edmund... he is caring and kind while also being so protective and its wonderful!
The author also really has a way with words. Within the first chapter alone I felt myself falling into the world. Clarke's writing style gives just enough description but leaves an opening for your own imagination. I also know I already mentioned it... but the banter. Clarke writes wonderful three dimensional characters that work off each other effortlessly.
This book was honestly a treat and I am very excited to read more by this author.
This read was incredibly fun!
Priscilla Livingston is an awkward situation. She is looking for for a husband that will be too preoccupied with their hobbies to notice her social justice activities. Unfortunately (or rather very fortunately) one of her suitors is the handsome Edmund Hawkins. But he's off limits - because if he gets too close her secret will be in danger of being revealed... she's his informant who he only knows as Lord P.
The banter between Priscilla and Edmund is electric. They are both constantly in a tug and pull relationship. Though Priscilla tries to make him not like her it backfires as it reveals how much of a hilarious and charming person she is. And Edmund... he is caring and kind while also being so protective and its wonderful!
The author also really has a way with words. Within the first chapter alone I felt myself falling into the world. Clarke's writing style gives just enough description but leaves an opening for your own imagination. I also know I already mentioned it... but the banter. Clarke writes wonderful three dimensional characters that work off each other effortlessly.
This book was honestly a treat and I am very excited to read more by this author.
June 19, 2021
Lady Priscilla Livingston works for social reform and helping those in need. She wants to change the world. That includes freedom to investigate men in power to turn them to vote in Parliament for reform. Sewing Guild Meetings that are not for sewing, but social action. Marriage is not for her, but one man does not understand the word "NO."
Edmund, Duke of Bradenton is ready for a wife. There is only one woman who holds his interest. Priscilla. The more he pursues, the more she tries to hold off his interest. Priscilla fears once he discovers she wrote him letters under a fake name, Edmund would surely break off his pursuit. If only they can say three words to each other it would resolve most of their problem.
Couldn't stop laughing over thoughts of throwing vases.
The first book I've read by Melanie Rose Clark is a winner!!!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
Edmund, Duke of Bradenton is ready for a wife. There is only one woman who holds his interest. Priscilla. The more he pursues, the more she tries to hold off his interest. Priscilla fears once he discovers she wrote him letters under a fake name, Edmund would surely break off his pursuit. If only they can say three words to each other it would resolve most of their problem.
Couldn't stop laughing over thoughts of throwing vases.
The first book I've read by Melanie Rose Clark is a winner!!!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
March 6, 2022
Great story
I enjoyed how Priscilla worked so hard on her efforts to save others that did not have her advantages. Her Duke was also working along the same lines. It took her a while to understand that she could have love and continue her work. Lovely story.
I enjoyed how Priscilla worked so hard on her efforts to save others that did not have her advantages. Her Duke was also working along the same lines. It took her a while to understand that she could have love and continue her work. Lovely story.
May 12, 2022
Sweet story if predictable. I liked the characters and the concept yet unfortunately was too often taken out of the scene by jarring anachronisms, words or phrases not fitting the era.
June 19, 2021
Lovely, well-written story :) Looking forward to more in this series!
January 17, 2022
Inspiring
From the first words I was captured. I could not put it down. Inspiring and awesome. Loved it. Want to keep reading
From the first words I was captured. I could not put it down. Inspiring and awesome. Loved it. Want to keep reading
Read
March 4, 2022Engaging
Witty and fun, independent stubborn Lady Priscilla leads an adventurous life for her social causes. Due to societal rules most of her adventures are secret.
Witty and fun, independent stubborn Lady Priscilla leads an adventurous life for her social causes. Due to societal rules most of her adventures are secret.
March 3, 2022
Love, laughter and vases
Good strong characters. Exciting storyline and bringing social issues to light.
Likeable, lovable families. Plenty of fun and scary mischief included. Reliable friends.
Good strong characters. Exciting storyline and bringing social issues to light.
Likeable, lovable families. Plenty of fun and scary mischief included. Reliable friends.
January 15, 2022
Funny with wit
I so much enjoyed reading with the banter and situations that brought them together. I laughed so many times. You have got to read this!!
I so much enjoyed reading with the banter and situations that brought them together. I laughed so many times. You have got to read this!!
January 13, 2022
good book witty dialogue
This book is a delight. The hero a little too good to be true. Needs a vice or two. His friends also seem that way but we will see
This book is a delight. The hero a little too good to be true. Needs a vice or two. His friends also seem that way but we will see
March 2, 2022
escaping the Duke
A thoroughly entertaining love story with moments of suspense and moments of beauty. An enjoyable read, I recommend reading this book.
A thoroughly entertaining love story with moments of suspense and moments of beauty. An enjoyable read, I recommend reading this book.
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