What do you think?
Rate this book
Gems of London #1
Deceiving the Duke
Hate brought them together. Will love tear them apart?
Welcome to book 1 in the exciting new series from USA Today Bestselling Author Elizabeth Ellen Carter.
William Musgrave, Duke of Auchen, is dying. When he goes to his grave, he will take with him the opportunity to right a wrong that has left Lady Ruby McAllister impoverished.
Ruby has the contract that pledged her father a one-third share in a successful Scottish textile mill. But Auchen never made good on his promise before Ruby's father died. Now Ruby has lost her beloved Strathaird, home to the McAllisters for centuries. Her only hope is to confront the duke before he dies. And her chance comes when a vacancy arises for a new night nurse in his London household.
Standing in her way is Seth Musgrave, the duke's estranged son, who despises his father for deriding him as an imbecile. In truth, Seth is the driving force behind his father's successful enterprise. William Musgrave has heeded no one in his life except for his wife. She died twenty years ago, but Ruby hears him call for her in his nightly delirium.
What if Ruby answered his call, pretending to be the only woman who could ever persuade the duke to do the right thing?
How long can Ruby keep her secret when Seth is trying to distract her with his kisses? And what if Seth learns the woman he’s falling in love with is deceiving the Duke?
Welcome to book 1 in the exciting new series from USA Today Bestselling Author Elizabeth Ellen Carter.
William Musgrave, Duke of Auchen, is dying. When he goes to his grave, he will take with him the opportunity to right a wrong that has left Lady Ruby McAllister impoverished.
Ruby has the contract that pledged her father a one-third share in a successful Scottish textile mill. But Auchen never made good on his promise before Ruby's father died. Now Ruby has lost her beloved Strathaird, home to the McAllisters for centuries. Her only hope is to confront the duke before he dies. And her chance comes when a vacancy arises for a new night nurse in his London household.
Standing in her way is Seth Musgrave, the duke's estranged son, who despises his father for deriding him as an imbecile. In truth, Seth is the driving force behind his father's successful enterprise. William Musgrave has heeded no one in his life except for his wife. She died twenty years ago, but Ruby hears him call for her in his nightly delirium.
What if Ruby answered his call, pretending to be the only woman who could ever persuade the duke to do the right thing?
How long can Ruby keep her secret when Seth is trying to distract her with his kisses? And what if Seth learns the woman he’s falling in love with is deceiving the Duke?
357 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 4, 2022
39 people are currently reading
63 people want to read
About the author
Elizabeth Ellen Carter
59 books354 followersUSA Today bestselling author Elizabeth Ellen Carter is an award-winning historical romance writer who pens richly detailed historical romantic adventures. A former newspaper journalist, Carter ran an award-winning PR agency for 12 years. She lives in Australia.
On the publication of her debut novel in 2013, Carter was heralded by critics as ‘a writer worth keeping an eye on’ with a style reminiscent of classic suspense novelist Daphne du Maurier. This impression has been borne out in her subsequent work.
Her full-length novels frequently feature psychologically complex relations between the central characters and often delve into dark themes.
Nonetheless, she also occasionally turns her hand to sweet romance (always with a touch of adventure) suitable for younger readers as well as older fans looking for a change of pace.
Elizabeth Ellen Carter’s full-length titles and several novellas have been published by Dragonblade Publishing since 2017. She also regularly contributes to various multi-author anthologies and is a member of The Bluestocking Belles group of Regency romance authors.
On the publication of her debut novel in 2013, Carter was heralded by critics as ‘a writer worth keeping an eye on’ with a style reminiscent of classic suspense novelist Daphne du Maurier. This impression has been borne out in her subsequent work.
Her full-length novels frequently feature psychologically complex relations between the central characters and often delve into dark themes.
Nonetheless, she also occasionally turns her hand to sweet romance (always with a touch of adventure) suitable for younger readers as well as older fans looking for a change of pace.
Elizabeth Ellen Carter’s full-length titles and several novellas have been published by Dragonblade Publishing since 2017. She also regularly contributes to various multi-author anthologies and is a member of The Bluestocking Belles group of Regency romance authors.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
February 5, 2022
❤️❤️❤️❤️
💋💋
Very enjoyable and entertaining read from Elizabeth, so nice to see her books again I’ve really missed them.
Love the premise for this story, a lady left with no home after the death of her father, broke and having to sell off the estate.
Moving in to care for the old Duke who she’s convinced swindled her father, and falls for the young Earl/ Dukes Heir, it really grabbed my attention.
Great attention to detail and writing, and a wonderful chemistry between the pair.
More soon please .
I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review
💋💋
Very enjoyable and entertaining read from Elizabeth, so nice to see her books again I’ve really missed them.
Love the premise for this story, a lady left with no home after the death of her father, broke and having to sell off the estate.
Moving in to care for the old Duke who she’s convinced swindled her father, and falls for the young Earl/ Dukes Heir, it really grabbed my attention.
Great attention to detail and writing, and a wonderful chemistry between the pair.
More soon please .
I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review
December 31, 2023
4.5 stars ⭐️
I enjoyed this story, kept me interested and the H and h were nice characters. Set in Scotland and England.
I enjoyed this story, kept me interested and the H and h were nice characters. Set in Scotland and England.
February 1, 2022
London
Her home and father were now gone, and she was determined to persuade the duke to honor the contract that gave her one third share of his textile mill. Armed with the contract, she is able to
ingrate herself into the household by posing as his nurse.
He had come back home, due to his father dying. Having grown up being browbeaten and put down, he really wanted nothing to due with him. After all he was the one who had made their business
successful.
When they meet, he has no idea of why she is truly there.. But secrets and old grudges will come to light and they will have to see if they can have a future. Great start to a new series I look forward to!!
Her home and father were now gone, and she was determined to persuade the duke to honor the contract that gave her one third share of his textile mill. Armed with the contract, she is able to
ingrate herself into the household by posing as his nurse.
He had come back home, due to his father dying. Having grown up being browbeaten and put down, he really wanted nothing to due with him. After all he was the one who had made their business
successful.
When they meet, he has no idea of why she is truly there.. But secrets and old grudges will come to light and they will have to see if they can have a future. Great start to a new series I look forward to!!
February 21, 2022
Deceiving the Duke by Elizabeth Ellen Carter is the first book in the new series “Gems of London” and the first book I have read by this author. This story is a blend of tropes including deception to love, forced proximity, and damaged hero saved by love. It also strongly focuses on learning from mistakes, acceptance, forgiveness, letting go of hate, and embracing the future. This is a story full of impeccable world building, multifaceted characters, and a plot that moves forward in a realistic manner with a plausible pace. The story is told from alternating POV which allows the reader to better understand what each character is experiencing.
The MCs are Lady Ruby McAllister aka nurse Campbell and Seth Musgrave, heir to the current Duke of Auchen, William Musgrave. These three are brought together by terminal illness, deception, regret, and hate. The question is can Seth & Ruby have a chance at happiness when their beginning was so filled with sadness?
I enjoyed this story and felt like the author allowed the characters to guide the pacing versus trying to make the story wrap up quickly. There are some topics that can’t be rushed and I am glad the author didn’t try.
I did wish we were given a chapter from the POV of William Musgrave but some of his actions were revealed that shows there was more to the man than he allowed others to experience. I also didn’t much care for a certain countess that is featured in the last 30% of the story but I was happy with the eventual ending for Seth & Ruby.
There is not a lot of heat in this story and the sexual encounters are limited—so be warned if those aspects are a must have in your romance novels.
***Trigger Warnings: Mental abuse, terminal illness, death of prominent character, and death of a supporting character.
Overall 4 Stars ⭐️ | Level 3 Heat 🔥
The MCs are Lady Ruby McAllister aka nurse Campbell and Seth Musgrave, heir to the current Duke of Auchen, William Musgrave. These three are brought together by terminal illness, deception, regret, and hate. The question is can Seth & Ruby have a chance at happiness when their beginning was so filled with sadness?
I enjoyed this story and felt like the author allowed the characters to guide the pacing versus trying to make the story wrap up quickly. There are some topics that can’t be rushed and I am glad the author didn’t try.
I did wish we were given a chapter from the POV of William Musgrave but some of his actions were revealed that shows there was more to the man than he allowed others to experience. I also didn’t much care for a certain countess that is featured in the last 30% of the story but I was happy with the eventual ending for Seth & Ruby.
There is not a lot of heat in this story and the sexual encounters are limited—so be warned if those aspects are a must have in your romance novels.
***Trigger Warnings: Mental abuse, terminal illness, death of prominent character, and death of a supporting character.
Overall 4 Stars ⭐️ | Level 3 Heat 🔥
February 1, 2022
Ruby McAllister has been left in debt, after her father died, she’s lost her family home Strathaird. Whilst sorting her father’s papers she found an agreement between her father & the Duke of Auchen for one-third share in a successful Scottish textile mill. So Ruby travels from Glasgow to London & when arriving at the Duke’s home is mistaken for a nurse. William Musgrave, Duke of Auchen, is dying. Then Seth Musgrave, the duke's estranged son arrives, he despises his father for deriding him as an imbecile. In truth, Seth is the driving force behind his father's successful weaving enterprise.
Seth & Ruby are immediately attracted to each other but can love grow out of hatred.
The start of a new series & I found myself routing for Seth & Ruby all the way through. A well written book with strong characters & a story that flowed well. I loved both Seth & Ruby, he was sent to work in the family’s mill as a boy because his horrid father thought him an imbecile, where in fact Seth was anything but. Ruby was feisty, caring & believed her father’s invention had been used for years. Their road to a HEA wasn’t easy but it did make for an interesting, engrossing read. I look forward to the rest of the series
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
Seth & Ruby are immediately attracted to each other but can love grow out of hatred.
The start of a new series & I found myself routing for Seth & Ruby all the way through. A well written book with strong characters & a story that flowed well. I loved both Seth & Ruby, he was sent to work in the family’s mill as a boy because his horrid father thought him an imbecile, where in fact Seth was anything but. Ruby was feisty, caring & believed her father’s invention had been used for years. Their road to a HEA wasn’t easy but it did make for an interesting, engrossing read. I look forward to the rest of the series
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
February 4, 2022
Romantic and intriguing, this novel is a little different from many others from the same period. I found the Duke of Auchen's actions inconceivable and unexpected, making him a very complicated man. Nevertheless, they resulted in Ruby being hired on as his nurse and drew on Seth's inner reserves to hold onto his patience under the barrage of abuse, thus bringing the main characters together with a common goal. Sidelined and denigrated, Seth has earned the respect of all those who have come to know him, earning their loyalty and their love. Roddy McClane, his closest friend, and man of business brings light and humor into the plot, as well as perspective when Seth most needs it. Nursing his disgruntled father, Ruby has more patience and understanding than most women put in her situation, but that does not help her fulfill her own quest. The novel traverses the road between Glasgow and London as Ruby searches for clues regarding the contract between her father and the Duke, bringing a number of unexpected surprises. This romance is generally well written and comes to a sweet and successful conclusion. I received a copy of this book as a gift through Dragonblade Publishing and NetGalley and this is my honest and voluntary review.
May 6, 2023
With the spiciness of each turn of the page, the story draws the readers in as the relationship between Seth and Ruby intensifies. An addictive tale!
Read full review in the 2023 May issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2023 May issue of InD'tale Magazine.
January 31, 2022
Seth Musgrave is the new Duke of Auchen after the death of his estranged father. Throughout his life, Seth had been bullied and called an imbecile by his father and Seth had tried so hard to prove his father wrong. His father's final wish was to return to Scotland and against his better judgment, Seth indulges the old man. Lady Ruby McAllister believes the former duke cheated her father out of his share of the profitable mill and pretends to be the old man's nurse to try and get him to do the right thing. What she doesn't count on was falling for Seth, but can they have a loving relationship based on lies and deceit?
This was an interesting read and the first book I've read by Ms. Carter. I felt such empathy for Seth trying to reconcile his feelings for his dying father who was proving to be the monster Seth remembered from his childhood or was he? The calming presence of Nurse Ruby is something Seth never counted on and he found himself falling in love with her. Ruby was a strong character who receives a shock in her quest for revenge and compensation from the old duke. She does redeem herself by letting Seth travel to London alone to adjust to being the duke while she stays in Scotland and tries to forget him. The plot moves along well and I especially liked Roddy, Seth's friend. He added some much needed levity to the story. While it was a rocky road, Seth and Ruby finally find their own HEA.
I voluntarily read the advanced reader copy and all opinions are my own.
This was an interesting read and the first book I've read by Ms. Carter. I felt such empathy for Seth trying to reconcile his feelings for his dying father who was proving to be the monster Seth remembered from his childhood or was he? The calming presence of Nurse Ruby is something Seth never counted on and he found himself falling in love with her. Ruby was a strong character who receives a shock in her quest for revenge and compensation from the old duke. She does redeem herself by letting Seth travel to London alone to adjust to being the duke while she stays in Scotland and tries to forget him. The plot moves along well and I especially liked Roddy, Seth's friend. He added some much needed levity to the story. While it was a rocky road, Seth and Ruby finally find their own HEA.
I voluntarily read the advanced reader copy and all opinions are my own.
January 30, 2022
Lady Ruby McAllister is on her way to London to demand her father's share in a business transaction with the Duke of Auchen. Her father spent all their money on inventions. In debt, she had to sell her home, Strathaird. Once in London, she discovers the old Duke is dying and by mistaken identity becomes his nurse. This close to the Duke maybe the opportunity to convince him to make it right. The Duke's son, Seth Musgrave has a volatile relationship with his father. His only bright spot is Ruby and the growing attraction between them.
"Love, joy and contentment" have a long way to go from "bitterness, enmity and hatred."
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
"Love, joy and contentment" have a long way to go from "bitterness, enmity and hatred."
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
February 4, 2022
This book has the best of both worlds, Scotland and a London season! Of course a bunch of fashion too, from making fabric to dress designs.
I liked how both Ruby and Seth found their romance in a somewhat unconventional way. Seth spent time trying to understand his unkind dying father while Ruby posed as his father's nurse to right a wrong against her late father and family. Both of their humble beginnings made navigating society quite entertaining.
The fabric making/engineering, ribbon, and dresses was what gave this book that little bit extra! A wonderful historical romance!
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for providing a copy of this ARC for an honest review.
I liked how both Ruby and Seth found their romance in a somewhat unconventional way. Seth spent time trying to understand his unkind dying father while Ruby posed as his father's nurse to right a wrong against her late father and family. Both of their humble beginnings made navigating society quite entertaining.
The fabric making/engineering, ribbon, and dresses was what gave this book that little bit extra! A wonderful historical romance!
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for providing a copy of this ARC for an honest review.
September 1, 2022
The Heroine
Ruby McAllister, Lady Straithaird, discovered, upon her fathers death, a contract that he owned one third of a thriving loom business! Unfortunately, the owner of said business is none other than the Duke of Auchen who is known as a cruel man. Ruby is determined to get what is hers, but when she shows up at this doorstep, she ends up pretending to be the dying Dukes nurse! She is desperate to get the money from the contract as she has nothing left and has had to sell her beloved family estate.
The Hero
Seth Musgrave, son of the Duke of Auchen, has long despised his father. Poor eye sight as a child caused his father to determine he was a waste of an heir and sent him to work in his factory’s instead of to school like most heirs. Now a grown man, he was opening his own textile mill to compete with his fathers…and he just happens to purchase Ruby’s family’s estate!
The Plot
Over the course of caring for the dying Duke of Auchen, Seth and Ruby come to love each other. But, in the end, neither knows who they are meant to be going forward...Seth is thrown into the deep end of being the Duke and Ruby isn't sure what do now that her dreams of her father's invention have crumbled. Seth persisted, but Ruby sent him away so he could discover who he was now that he was the Duke and had everything he wanted.
**SPOILER**
I found it infuriating that Seth was not faithful while he was in London; I understand Ruby’s point that they were not together, but it was still so frustrating! And that he kept pretending with the other woman while Ruby was right there!
Overall, I was totally enthralled with this book and the love these two had before and after their separation was just...everything! I can't wait to read more in this series and from Ms. Carter!
Tropes
Historical Romance, Regency Romance, Beta Hero, Damaged Hero, Self-Made Hero, Titled Hero, Nurse/Doctor Heroine, Virgin Heroine, Angst Romance, Friends to Lovers, Forced Proximity, Revenge Trope, Secrets & Lies, Secret Identity
Ruby McAllister, Lady Straithaird, discovered, upon her fathers death, a contract that he owned one third of a thriving loom business! Unfortunately, the owner of said business is none other than the Duke of Auchen who is known as a cruel man. Ruby is determined to get what is hers, but when she shows up at this doorstep, she ends up pretending to be the dying Dukes nurse! She is desperate to get the money from the contract as she has nothing left and has had to sell her beloved family estate.
The Hero
Seth Musgrave, son of the Duke of Auchen, has long despised his father. Poor eye sight as a child caused his father to determine he was a waste of an heir and sent him to work in his factory’s instead of to school like most heirs. Now a grown man, he was opening his own textile mill to compete with his fathers…and he just happens to purchase Ruby’s family’s estate!
The Plot
Over the course of caring for the dying Duke of Auchen, Seth and Ruby come to love each other. But, in the end, neither knows who they are meant to be going forward...Seth is thrown into the deep end of being the Duke and Ruby isn't sure what do now that her dreams of her father's invention have crumbled. Seth persisted, but Ruby sent him away so he could discover who he was now that he was the Duke and had everything he wanted.
**SPOILER**
I found it infuriating that Seth was not faithful while he was in London; I understand Ruby’s point that they were not together, but it was still so frustrating! And that he kept pretending with the other woman while Ruby was right there!
Overall, I was totally enthralled with this book and the love these two had before and after their separation was just...everything! I can't wait to read more in this series and from Ms. Carter!
Tropes
Historical Romance, Regency Romance, Beta Hero, Damaged Hero, Self-Made Hero, Titled Hero, Nurse/Doctor Heroine, Virgin Heroine, Angst Romance, Friends to Lovers, Forced Proximity, Revenge Trope, Secrets & Lies, Secret Identity
August 9, 2023
I received an Advance Reader Copy from the publisher via NetGalley. This in no way impacted on my view.
Lady Ruby McAllister needs to get the ageing Duke of Auchen to right the wrong he has done against her family. Because of Auchen's actions, Ruby's family have lost their ancestral home, and she is out for revenge. However, arriving at his home in London, she sees a duke on the verge of death, and works her way into becoming his night nurse. Thinking she can convince him to right his wrongs before his death, perhaps even using the memory of his late wife against him, Ruby sees no way for her plan to fail. That is, until the duke's estranged son, Seth, arrives and catches her eye.
I found this to be an okay book, but not a favourite of mine. Ruby was an alright main character, but she made some questionable choices at times. I did like how much she cared about her family, and wanted to help them and reclaim her ancestral home. Seth was very much similar to Ruby. Though an Earl, and heir to the dukedom, his father had thrown him out, and Seth spent most of his time with his workers at the textile mill. He only returned home to speak with his father before his death, but meeting Nurse Campbell (Ruby, in disguise), he finds himself softening to his father's actions, and wanting to reconcile before it's too late. I wish there wasn't as much secret keeping in the book as there was, but it was somewhat understandable. I think I'll likely continue with the series, but it's not going to be high on my TBR.
Lady Ruby McAllister needs to get the ageing Duke of Auchen to right the wrong he has done against her family. Because of Auchen's actions, Ruby's family have lost their ancestral home, and she is out for revenge. However, arriving at his home in London, she sees a duke on the verge of death, and works her way into becoming his night nurse. Thinking she can convince him to right his wrongs before his death, perhaps even using the memory of his late wife against him, Ruby sees no way for her plan to fail. That is, until the duke's estranged son, Seth, arrives and catches her eye.
I found this to be an okay book, but not a favourite of mine. Ruby was an alright main character, but she made some questionable choices at times. I did like how much she cared about her family, and wanted to help them and reclaim her ancestral home. Seth was very much similar to Ruby. Though an Earl, and heir to the dukedom, his father had thrown him out, and Seth spent most of his time with his workers at the textile mill. He only returned home to speak with his father before his death, but meeting Nurse Campbell (Ruby, in disguise), he finds himself softening to his father's actions, and wanting to reconcile before it's too late. I wish there wasn't as much secret keeping in the book as there was, but it was somewhat understandable. I think I'll likely continue with the series, but it's not going to be high on my TBR.
February 12, 2022
Deceiving the Duke by Elizabeth Ellen Carter is the opening book in a new series: Gems of London. Ruby McAllister was listening as he father's solicitor told her she was almost destitute. Her father had been a dreamer, not a manager, and now she was to pay the price. She had to sell her home, Strathaird, and now was looking at spending the rest of her days in a cottage . . . until she found the contract between her father and Skye-Heath Linens, giving him 30% of the business in exchange for his design of a loom that would revolutionize the making of fabric. This was her salvation! The solicitor told her it was worthless but Ruby determined to go to London and confront the man. When she got there, she was mistaken for the nurse. It was there her adventure began. He was a horrible old man, but as she got to know him she could see he hadn't always been this horrible. And his son, Seth, was far from horrible.
This was an interesting plot with plenty of twists and turns, some realistic, some not. Seth was a good guy. He had been demeaned and despised by his father his whole life but it had not turned him sour, it had made him strong. Plenty happened here before Seth and Ruby got together. Ruby was able to see her father's loom put into action, and built the business he should have lived to see built. Seth got to experience being a duke before he returned to Scotland to live his life, and the old Duke of Auchen got to be with his beloved wife in the end. It was a romantic and lovely story of tow people coming of age and finding one another, after they thought they had lost each other. I loved it. It was different. It was real. It was romantic.
I was invited to read a free e-ARC of Deceiving the Duke by Dragonblade, through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #netgalley #dragonblade #deceivingtheduke #elizabethellencarter
This was an interesting plot with plenty of twists and turns, some realistic, some not. Seth was a good guy. He had been demeaned and despised by his father his whole life but it had not turned him sour, it had made him strong. Plenty happened here before Seth and Ruby got together. Ruby was able to see her father's loom put into action, and built the business he should have lived to see built. Seth got to experience being a duke before he returned to Scotland to live his life, and the old Duke of Auchen got to be with his beloved wife in the end. It was a romantic and lovely story of tow people coming of age and finding one another, after they thought they had lost each other. I loved it. It was different. It was real. It was romantic.
I was invited to read a free e-ARC of Deceiving the Duke by Dragonblade, through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #netgalley #dragonblade #deceivingtheduke #elizabethellencarter
February 1, 2022
“The greatest of these is love.” If you love something, set it free. If it comes back to you it is meant to be. This story reminds me of how true that statement can be. It takes tremendous faith and indeed, love to set someone free so that they can grow. The journey that Ruby embarks on to right the wrong she believes was done to her father, takes her from Scotland to London and back again. Along the way she helps a hateful old man find some measure of peace and acceptance before he passes. Allowing his son, Seth to rise to the status of Duke. Being raised in contempt, he worked to prove his fathers assumptions wrong. He builds himself into a man of character, but he has never lived that life of privilege. Ruby sees that he needs to know that world on his own. While doing so, she builds for the future having the faith to see them together again.
I truly loved Ruby’s determination of spirit, her selfless nature and her unfailing love. I also loved the relationship between Roddy & Seth. Roddy never failed to tell Seth when he was being stupid, but he was loyal to the core. I especially enjoyed the love Roddy grew to have Ruby as well. I love a good right-hand man who bonds with the heroine as well. The way he took care of her in all the little things was a beautiful testament to their friendship. Seth & Ruby’s love was truly meant to be! A fantastic story of heart, loyalty & faith!
I truly loved Ruby’s determination of spirit, her selfless nature and her unfailing love. I also loved the relationship between Roddy & Seth. Roddy never failed to tell Seth when he was being stupid, but he was loyal to the core. I especially enjoyed the love Roddy grew to have Ruby as well. I love a good right-hand man who bonds with the heroine as well. The way he took care of her in all the little things was a beautiful testament to their friendship. Seth & Ruby’s love was truly meant to be! A fantastic story of heart, loyalty & faith!
February 6, 2022
Ruby McAllister has had to leave her home, Strathaird, when her father dies leaving her with little funds. When she decides to force William Musgrave, the Duke of Auchen into recognising the contract he had with her father, she is unprepared to find him sick and dying. When circumstances find her lying to his son, Seth Musgrave, when she pretends to be a nurse, she is instantly thrust into the household. Seth soon finds himself befriending Ruby, who manages to put up with his father’s bullying. As they spend more time together, caring for the duke, Seth feels that his relationship with his father is changing. Could the man who once derided him as an imbecile now see him for the successful man, who has grown the family empire.
A good start to what will be an interesting series. I found Seth to be such a noble man, who loved his mother but tolerated his father, who treated him with little feeling. Ruby is a strong character, who despite the situation she has found herself in, maintained such admirable qualities. When she had an opportunity to benefit herself, she did the opposite and helped Seth to regain his relationship with his father before his death. Whilst their relationship had many obstacles, it was the journey that they had to traverse, that made them a better couple.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
A good start to what will be an interesting series. I found Seth to be such a noble man, who loved his mother but tolerated his father, who treated him with little feeling. Ruby is a strong character, who despite the situation she has found herself in, maintained such admirable qualities. When she had an opportunity to benefit herself, she did the opposite and helped Seth to regain his relationship with his father before his death. Whilst their relationship had many obstacles, it was the journey that they had to traverse, that made them a better couple.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 10, 2022
What a lovely historic romance novel! Other authors in this genre should watch out and learn from it.
Many historic romance writers seem to run out of things to write about, focus on physical attraction too much and fill up pages with sex scenes, forget the heroine's and hero's development or showing of their growing love. Many writers tend to throw random events or subplots just to keep the book going. This book was nothing like that. It was naturally transitioning, the events were very believable, the clear growth and development of characters, the self-less love especially the part of when you love someone, you set them free. I have enjoyed reading dialogues with the Scottish slang and poems in between. I liked the part where the "evil" character gets developed and redeemed or at least makes a reader see that nothing is black and white. People do selfish and terrible things out of pain, people can grow old and bitter for a good reason.
I highly recommend it and one of the best parts is that thanks to Netgalley and the free copy in exchange of the honest review, I get to discover great authors that I didn't know to exist.
p.s. I would only change the book cover. The girl and the red / black colors are too dark, too sensual, they are more fit on a book that has a character of a window or a more sexually experienced woman.
Many historic romance writers seem to run out of things to write about, focus on physical attraction too much and fill up pages with sex scenes, forget the heroine's and hero's development or showing of their growing love. Many writers tend to throw random events or subplots just to keep the book going. This book was nothing like that. It was naturally transitioning, the events were very believable, the clear growth and development of characters, the self-less love especially the part of when you love someone, you set them free. I have enjoyed reading dialogues with the Scottish slang and poems in between. I liked the part where the "evil" character gets developed and redeemed or at least makes a reader see that nothing is black and white. People do selfish and terrible things out of pain, people can grow old and bitter for a good reason.
I highly recommend it and one of the best parts is that thanks to Netgalley and the free copy in exchange of the honest review, I get to discover great authors that I didn't know to exist.
p.s. I would only change the book cover. The girl and the red / black colors are too dark, too sensual, they are more fit on a book that has a character of a window or a more sexually experienced woman.
February 17, 2022
I have not had the opportunity to read anything by this author before and I was excited to try this book out. I was not disappointed! This is the first installment of Gems of London series and what a delightful start! Ruby has lost her home after her father died and is left with a mountain of debt. She finds a contract within her father's documents that just may give her the boost she needs and it lies with the ailing Duke of Auchen. She sets out to retrieve what she is due and arrives at the Duke's home only to be mistaken for a nurse. Seth despises his father and has been estranged from him but now that he is dying, Seth returns home. Ruby and Seth have an immediate attraction, but they are challenged with secrets and old grudges they must face before they have a chance at happiness. I found this to be a very entertaining and enjoyable read and the story captured my attention from the start. The characters were nicely developed and there was no question as to how strong their chemistry was. A very well-written story and great start to what looks to be a very entertaining series!
I received a complimentary copy from Dragonblade Publishing via Netgalley and am voluntarily leaving my review.
I received a complimentary copy from Dragonblade Publishing via Netgalley and am voluntarily leaving my review.
March 17, 2025
Will Ruby’s need for justice blight her chance for love?
Ruby believes that William Musgrave, Duke of Auchen has failed to make good on a promise she believes he made to her late father.
When she arrives at his London home it is to discover he is gravely ill, without thinking she claims to be a new nurse (all the others have been driven away by the man’s behaviour).
Seth Musgrave is the heir but his father had belittled him all his childhood due to Seth’s need for spectacles.
Ruby somehow manages to cope with the old duke’s gruff ways and she and Seth fall in love.
However, the truth comes out and Ruby decides she can not allow the relationship to continue as it was built on deception.
On returning to Scotland after the old duke’s death she discovers more information about the apparent failure of support from the old duke.
Eventually things come right.
I very much enjoyed the character development and the way the relationships were shown.
Ruby believes that William Musgrave, Duke of Auchen has failed to make good on a promise she believes he made to her late father.
When she arrives at his London home it is to discover he is gravely ill, without thinking she claims to be a new nurse (all the others have been driven away by the man’s behaviour).
Seth Musgrave is the heir but his father had belittled him all his childhood due to Seth’s need for spectacles.
Ruby somehow manages to cope with the old duke’s gruff ways and she and Seth fall in love.
However, the truth comes out and Ruby decides she can not allow the relationship to continue as it was built on deception.
On returning to Scotland after the old duke’s death she discovers more information about the apparent failure of support from the old duke.
Eventually things come right.
I very much enjoyed the character development and the way the relationships were shown.
February 7, 2022
Some good things and some missing key things
The positives:
- Interesting plot.
- Fair world-building.
- Best use of words from that era that I've seen in any Regency romance: I had to look most of them up and they exactly identified the item or concept.
- Ruby, Seth, Seth's father, and Roddy are believable main characters, as are Frances, Jeanette, and the Countess believable supporting characters.
- The personal growth of Ruby, Seth, and his father make sense.
The drawbacks:
- I had to read about two-thirds of the book before Ruby and Seth became real to me.
- Like many Regency novels, only a few characters are part of the plot as individuals.
- The story didn't make me feel like I was living it.
The positives:
- Interesting plot.
- Fair world-building.
- Best use of words from that era that I've seen in any Regency romance: I had to look most of them up and they exactly identified the item or concept.
- Ruby, Seth, Seth's father, and Roddy are believable main characters, as are Frances, Jeanette, and the Countess believable supporting characters.
- The personal growth of Ruby, Seth, and his father make sense.
The drawbacks:
- I had to read about two-thirds of the book before Ruby and Seth became real to me.
- Like many Regency novels, only a few characters are part of the plot as individuals.
- The story didn't make me feel like I was living it.
January 30, 2022
Lady Ruby McAllister is disappointed with the remains of her inheritance after the death of her father. There may be a way to save her home if the papers she holds are what they seem.
Seth Musgrave has been belittled and insulted by his father the Duke of Auchen nearly all his life, because of his weakness. He has struggled to prove himself as a man of worth. Now there's not much time left.
This is a very unusual historical romance. It starts with lies, hate and a bitter lonely old man. It turns into an emotional journey where all our characters learn what is really important and who they really are.
Our heroine definitely has a lot of common sense.
A very good read.
Seth Musgrave has been belittled and insulted by his father the Duke of Auchen nearly all his life, because of his weakness. He has struggled to prove himself as a man of worth. Now there's not much time left.
This is a very unusual historical romance. It starts with lies, hate and a bitter lonely old man. It turns into an emotional journey where all our characters learn what is really important and who they really are.
Our heroine definitely has a lot of common sense.
A very good read.
February 8, 2022
Lady Ruby McAllister has lost her father her money and her home. She finds in her dad's papers an agreement between her father and the Duke of Auchen for one-third share in a successful Scottish textile mill. She goes to confront the duke and finds a duke dying his son Seth mistake's her for a nurse so she's start's taking care of the duke. Seth has grown up be called a simpleton by his father but as his father lays dying he comes to try to bring closer with his father. Seth and Ruby are attracted to each other Seth has keep the mill running all the while his father has been in england. He's the reason that the textile mill is successful not his father.
January 30, 2022
After the death of her father she had to sold out their house so she could pay the deptors . One Duke has not paid her father the money he owned him and she goes to London to make him pay . When she arrives the Duke is very ill and she pretents to be his nurse so she will be close to him . While she is there his son arrives from Scotland . Father and son have a bad relationship . Will she succeed or her love for him win ?
I received this book from net galley and the publisher as an ARC. Thank you! All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I received this book from net galley and the publisher as an ARC. Thank you! All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 25, 2024
There is a happy ending but only after the duke who loved Ruby so well yet thought nothing of lying with a countess widow for a year…yet still loved her?
Ruby meanwhile lets him take his time separating from the countess, who insists on it and then thanks the countess…really?
Meanwhile the duke lets the countess lead him around and calls all the shots…yet in the beginning of this story he was his own man and he called his own shots….really?
Enough said…to each their own
Ruby meanwhile lets him take his time separating from the countess, who insists on it and then thanks the countess…really?
Meanwhile the duke lets the countess lead him around and calls all the shots…yet in the beginning of this story he was his own man and he called his own shots….really?
Enough said…to each their own
February 20, 2022
Exciting
Such a marvel of imagination from Ms. Carter. This book has a little of everything. Gives one an insight into manufacturing in the 1800's, some of what's involved when caring for a dieing loved one, as well as more inside into the "rules of the ton". Fascinating story.
Such a marvel of imagination from Ms. Carter. This book has a little of everything. Gives one an insight into manufacturing in the 1800's, some of what's involved when caring for a dieing loved one, as well as more inside into the "rules of the ton". Fascinating story.
February 14, 2022
Enchanting
I very wonderful love story with exceptional characters! Also a great storyline of wealth, privilege, and true love! I will recommend this book to friends and family. Thank you
Elizabeth Ellen Carter!
I very wonderful love story with exceptional characters! Also a great storyline of wealth, privilege, and true love! I will recommend this book to friends and family. Thank you
Elizabeth Ellen Carter!
July 18, 2022
Nurse Campbell
I loved this book filled with love and hate. Ruby all alone wanted revenge, but Seth taught her to love. They had finally learned their lesson of leaving hate and bitterness behind, because Love is the greatest gift!
I loved this book filled with love and hate. Ruby all alone wanted revenge, but Seth taught her to love. They had finally learned their lesson of leaving hate and bitterness behind, because Love is the greatest gift!
February 2, 2023
Fabulous
Excellently crafted characters with great backstories, courage, intelligence, and belief in love! The storylines are well written, with great attention to the details, and careful intertwining of the stories of the characters! Well Done Ms. carter!
Excellently crafted characters with great backstories, courage, intelligence, and belief in love! The storylines are well written, with great attention to the details, and careful intertwining of the stories of the characters! Well Done Ms. carter!
February 5, 2022
Loved it
What a lovely start to a new series. I could not put it down it kept my interest from the beginning to the end.
What a lovely start to a new series. I could not put it down it kept my interest from the beginning to the end.
April 6, 2022
Not bad, though there’s a space in the middle where they’re both idiots.
June 21, 2022
Awesome read
Just enough intrigue and romance. I enjoyed the characters.
It was nice to see a hero that has humility and heart.
Just enough intrigue and romance. I enjoyed the characters.
It was nice to see a hero that has humility and heart.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews