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The Heart of a Duke #17.5
Defying the Duke
Defying the Duke
Bookish and spirited, Lady Lettie Brookfield is firmly on the shelf. The last thing she wants, however, is to spend the rest of her days as an unmarried sister, dependent upon her family’s charity. Accepting she won’t have a love match, she finds herself coming around to the idea of marrying the only suitor she’s ever had..that is until she's suddenly reunited with her brother's former best friend, the brooding, formally charming, Anthony, Duke of Granville.
Years earlier, in an unselfish act intended to save his friend, Anthony committed an unforgivable betrayal; one that severed his friendship. Now he’s a duke and must fulfill his obligations. The last woman he has any right to long for is his former best friend’s younger sister, Lettie.
All grown-up Lettie is passionate, quick-witted, and desirable, and it isn't long before Anthony falls for her, the very last woman he should consider marrying. Will past betrayals keep them apart? Or is there a path to a new beginning with Anthony and the only woman he truly loves?
Heart of a Duke Books
For Love of the Duke
More Than a Duke
The Love of a Rogue
Loved by a Duke
To Love a Lord
The Heart of a Scoundrel
To Wed His Christmas Lady
To Trust a Rogue
The Lure of a Rake
To Woo a Widow
To Redeem a Rake
One Winter With a Baron
To Enchant a Wicked Duke
Beguiled by a Baron
To Tempt a Scoundrel
To Hold a Lady's Secret
To Catch a Viscount (February 2022)
Defying the Duke (July 2022)
To Marry Her Marquess (August 2022)
The Devil and the Debutante (September 2022)
Devil by Daylight (November 2022)
Ten Things I Love About the Duke (January 2023)
Bookish and spirited, Lady Lettie Brookfield is firmly on the shelf. The last thing she wants, however, is to spend the rest of her days as an unmarried sister, dependent upon her family’s charity. Accepting she won’t have a love match, she finds herself coming around to the idea of marrying the only suitor she’s ever had..that is until she's suddenly reunited with her brother's former best friend, the brooding, formally charming, Anthony, Duke of Granville.
Years earlier, in an unselfish act intended to save his friend, Anthony committed an unforgivable betrayal; one that severed his friendship. Now he’s a duke and must fulfill his obligations. The last woman he has any right to long for is his former best friend’s younger sister, Lettie.
All grown-up Lettie is passionate, quick-witted, and desirable, and it isn't long before Anthony falls for her, the very last woman he should consider marrying. Will past betrayals keep them apart? Or is there a path to a new beginning with Anthony and the only woman he truly loves?
Heart of a Duke Books
For Love of the Duke
More Than a Duke
The Love of a Rogue
Loved by a Duke
To Love a Lord
The Heart of a Scoundrel
To Wed His Christmas Lady
To Trust a Rogue
The Lure of a Rake
To Woo a Widow
To Redeem a Rake
One Winter With a Baron
To Enchant a Wicked Duke
Beguiled by a Baron
To Tempt a Scoundrel
To Hold a Lady's Secret
To Catch a Viscount (February 2022)
Defying the Duke (July 2022)
To Marry Her Marquess (August 2022)
The Devil and the Debutante (September 2022)
Devil by Daylight (November 2022)
Ten Things I Love About the Duke (January 2023)
137 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 25, 2022
244 people are currently reading
212 people want to read
About the author
Christi Caldwell
136 books2,558 followersUSA TODAY Bestselling author CHRISTI CALDWELL blames Judith McNaught's "Whitney, My Love!" for luring her into the world of historical romance. While sitting in her graduate school apartment at the University of Connecticut, Christi decided to set aside her notes and pick up her laptop to try her hand at romance. She believes the most perfect heroes and heroines have imperfections, and she rather enjoys torturing them before crafting them a well deserved happily ever after!
Christi makes her home in Charlotte, North Carolina where she spends her time writing her own enchanting historical romances, and baking surprisingly good cakes (almost 2 years in lockdown will do that) with her courageous son and twin daughters, each who with their daily antics provides limitless source material.
Christi makes her home in Charlotte, North Carolina where she spends her time writing her own enchanting historical romances, and baking surprisingly good cakes (almost 2 years in lockdown will do that) with her courageous son and twin daughters, each who with their daily antics provides limitless source material.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
July 26, 2022
Lady Lettice Brookfield and her brother Rhys were childhood friends
with Anthony, now the Duke of Granville. Anthony and Rhys had a falling out twenty years ago. When Anthony returns to London, Lettice sees only the man who makes her stomach flutter and the hope of mending the riff. Anthony tries to stay away from Lettice, but his heart won't let him. A short novella with the perfect couple.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book gifted by the author.L
with Anthony, now the Duke of Granville. Anthony and Rhys had a falling out twenty years ago. When Anthony returns to London, Lettice sees only the man who makes her stomach flutter and the hope of mending the riff. Anthony tries to stay away from Lettice, but his heart won't let him. A short novella with the perfect couple.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book gifted by the author.L
July 27, 2022
Wonderful, short story of Anthony, Duke of Granville and Lady Lettice Brookfield. Anthony was Lettie's brother Rhys' best friend growing up, but after a betrayal, the two have not seen each other for many years. Returning from his tour of the Continent he meets up with Lettie again and finds her all grown up. Loved how natural these two were with each other and felt for their pain from the betrayal and trying to deny their feelings now. Ms Caldwell's writing is superb. Couldn't put it down.
August 25, 2022
I loved Lettie, so feisty. Love a gutsy female. Enjoyable, but not my fave CC story of all. 4☆
July 24, 2022
Bookish and spirited, Lady Lettie Brookfield is firmly on the shelf. The last thing she wants, however, is to spend the rest of her days as an unmarried sister, dependent upon her family’s charity. Accepting she won’t have a love match, she finds herself coming around to the idea of marrying the only suitor she’s ever had until she's suddenly reunited with her brother's former best friend, the brooding, formally charming, Anthony, Duke of Granville. Years earlier, in an unselfish act intended to save his friend, Anthony committed an unforgivable betrayal; one that severed his friendship. Now he’s a duke and must fulfill his obligations. The last woman he has any right to long for is his former best friend’s younger sister, Lettie.
The eighteenth book in the series & it’s still as fresh as the first. I always start the author’s books early in the day as experience has taught me that once started I’m not going far until I've finished it. This book was no exception I was drawn in from the start & finished it with a smile on my face. I laughed, I cried & routed for Anthony & Lettie, I Loved the chemistry between them & was totally engrossed in their road to a HEA
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
The eighteenth book in the series & it’s still as fresh as the first. I always start the author’s books early in the day as experience has taught me that once started I’m not going far until I've finished it. This book was no exception I was drawn in from the start & finished it with a smile on my face. I laughed, I cried & routed for Anthony & Lettie, I Loved the chemistry between them & was totally engrossed in their road to a HEA
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
July 29, 2022
An engaging historical romance novella set in the 1820's with some fun scenes. 🙂 It's nicely written with a hint of steam. There's fast moving insta-love between two people that haven't seen each other for eighteen years - the heroine was eight and the hero sixteen. Hmm, so not really all that believable in that respect, but it's a novella, so expected. Also, I must mention the word 'partner' is a modern term - not used even when I was first married.
September 15, 2024
El final 🤣🤣🤣
June 24, 2023
H Anthony Duke of Granville and h Lettice Brookfield.
Anthony former best friend of Rhys Brookfield. They went to Eton and then Uni together. Rhys fell in love with an opera singer and was planning to marry her when he was 18. His mother the Marchioness of Guilford asked Anthony to invite Rhys’s fiancé to visit him and to kiss her showing Rhys what kind of lady his fiancé was. She did kiss Anthony and Rhys caught them in the act. Afterwards Anthony begged Rhys to let him explain but Rhys wouldn’t listen. He never knew until 15 years later that his mother was involved with this betrayal. Anthony comes back to London for the season as his younger sister is having her coming out. Lettice approaches Anthony at the first ball she sees him at. He tries to avoid the Brookfields as the rift is still there. Lettie followed Anthony and Rhys around and played swam and fished with them growing up. She just thought Anthony had gone traveling around the continent for years and just returned not knowing about their falling out. Once she learns of it she tries to intervene and help the two friends find forgiveness not only for their sake but hers too. She was falling in love with Anthony. He felt the same way but denied himself because of the rift with Rhys.
Lettie’s best friend Alice is married to her brother Rhys and they have 5 children.
Anthony and Lettie finally get together after the two old friends find forgiveness.
This was a short novella.
Anthony former best friend of Rhys Brookfield. They went to Eton and then Uni together. Rhys fell in love with an opera singer and was planning to marry her when he was 18. His mother the Marchioness of Guilford asked Anthony to invite Rhys’s fiancé to visit him and to kiss her showing Rhys what kind of lady his fiancé was. She did kiss Anthony and Rhys caught them in the act. Afterwards Anthony begged Rhys to let him explain but Rhys wouldn’t listen. He never knew until 15 years later that his mother was involved with this betrayal. Anthony comes back to London for the season as his younger sister is having her coming out. Lettice approaches Anthony at the first ball she sees him at. He tries to avoid the Brookfields as the rift is still there. Lettie followed Anthony and Rhys around and played swam and fished with them growing up. She just thought Anthony had gone traveling around the continent for years and just returned not knowing about their falling out. Once she learns of it she tries to intervene and help the two friends find forgiveness not only for their sake but hers too. She was falling in love with Anthony. He felt the same way but denied himself because of the rift with Rhys.
Lettie’s best friend Alice is married to her brother Rhys and they have 5 children.
Anthony and Lettie finally get together after the two old friends find forgiveness.
This was a short novella.
July 22, 2022
A fantastic story from the talented Christi Caldwell. Every time I pick up one of her books whether it is dark (like I like them) or sweet (like this one) I am in awe of her wonderful talent to bring me into these stories. The writing is so crisp. Lettie and Anthony’s story is bittersweet but not in the way you might think. While I did feel for Anthony a great deal (Christi is good at pulling out all of the feels), I wanted him to tell someone his story and not let it fester. Enter Lettie who I found to be a wonderful bright light in Anthony’s world.
I received a complimentary copy from the author.
I received a complimentary copy from the author.
July 28, 2022
Feisty
A wonderful and fast moving story. Lettie is fast becoming a spinster on the marriage mart and is being pressured into marriage by her mother. Anthony is a Duke who dislikes all that is associated with the ton and parties. Lettie is a lively and feisty character. She is fun and not afraid to educate herself. Anthony is unable to stay away from Lettie despite what he tells himself. Getting to the happily ever after goes down to the wire.
A wonderful and fast moving story. Lettie is fast becoming a spinster on the marriage mart and is being pressured into marriage by her mother. Anthony is a Duke who dislikes all that is associated with the ton and parties. Lettie is a lively and feisty character. She is fun and not afraid to educate herself. Anthony is unable to stay away from Lettie despite what he tells himself. Getting to the happily ever after goes down to the wire.
September 6, 2022
Wonderful ❤️💖❤️
Another great by Christi Caldwell. Likable characters, great storylines, beautiful romance. A must read!
Another great by Christi Caldwell. Likable characters, great storylines, beautiful romance. A must read!
August 8, 2022
💔 Defying the Duke 👒
The Heart of a Duke Book 18
✒️ Christi Caldwell
https://www.facebook.com/AuthorChrist... Release Date 07/26/2022
➪ https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QJ1CS91/...
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
Defying the Duke
Bookish and spirited, Lady Lettie Brookfield is firmly on the shelf. The last thing she wants, however, is to spend the rest of her days as an unmarried sister, dependent upon her family’s charity. Accepting she won’t have a love match, she finds herself coming around to the idea of marrying the only suitor she’s ever had..that is until she's suddenly reunited with her brother's former best friend, the brooding, formally charming, Anthony, Duke of Granville.
Years earlier, in an unselfish act intended to save his friend, Anthony committed an unforgivable betrayal; one that severed his friendship. Now he’s a duke and must fulfill his obligations. The last woman he has any right to long for is his former best friend’s younger sister, Lettie.
All grown-up Lettie is passionate, quick-witted, and desirable, and it isn't long before Anthony falls for her, the very last woman he should consider marrying. Will past betrayals keep them apart? Or is there a path to a new beginning with Anthony and the only woman he truly loves?
𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
Will he loose his chance at love for being unable to forgive himself…
What a sweet tale of forgiveness and second chance.
Lettie is such a lovely lady, her faith in her childhood friend is unshakable and her view of life very cheering. She sees the good first even in sad situations.
Anthony spend close to two decades paying for one mistake, made believing he was helping his best friend at this time. Since, he punished himself in retiring to the country or exploring the world, everywhere except crossing path with the man who was once his friend.
I felt very sorry for Anthony and the drastic measures he went through to avoid his ex best friend and the harm the betrayal did to his faith and trust in others. Lettie is the breath of fresh air he needed but to think he paid for someone else fault and this person is left unscathed when he lived the life of a recluse, it is not fair. As like Lettie said “all’s well that ends well”, yet there should have been a retribution for the interferer in his friend’s affairs.
4 stars
𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 onscreen foreplays scene
I have been granted an advance copy by the author, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://fb.watch/evYb-A_ES0/
https://www.facebook.com/100048385306...
#bookstagram #historicalromance #romance #romancebookblog #romancebookblogger #bookblog #romanceauthor #bookblogger #2022read #bookstagrammer #bookreview #romancebookreviewer #arcreader #bookquote #romancestagram #readersofinstagram
The Heart of a Duke Book 18
✒️ Christi Caldwell
https://www.facebook.com/AuthorChrist... Release Date 07/26/2022
➪ https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QJ1CS91/...
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
Defying the Duke
Bookish and spirited, Lady Lettie Brookfield is firmly on the shelf. The last thing she wants, however, is to spend the rest of her days as an unmarried sister, dependent upon her family’s charity. Accepting she won’t have a love match, she finds herself coming around to the idea of marrying the only suitor she’s ever had..that is until she's suddenly reunited with her brother's former best friend, the brooding, formally charming, Anthony, Duke of Granville.
Years earlier, in an unselfish act intended to save his friend, Anthony committed an unforgivable betrayal; one that severed his friendship. Now he’s a duke and must fulfill his obligations. The last woman he has any right to long for is his former best friend’s younger sister, Lettie.
All grown-up Lettie is passionate, quick-witted, and desirable, and it isn't long before Anthony falls for her, the very last woman he should consider marrying. Will past betrayals keep them apart? Or is there a path to a new beginning with Anthony and the only woman he truly loves?
𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
Will he loose his chance at love for being unable to forgive himself…
What a sweet tale of forgiveness and second chance.
Lettie is such a lovely lady, her faith in her childhood friend is unshakable and her view of life very cheering. She sees the good first even in sad situations.
Anthony spend close to two decades paying for one mistake, made believing he was helping his best friend at this time. Since, he punished himself in retiring to the country or exploring the world, everywhere except crossing path with the man who was once his friend.
I felt very sorry for Anthony and the drastic measures he went through to avoid his ex best friend and the harm the betrayal did to his faith and trust in others. Lettie is the breath of fresh air he needed but to think he paid for someone else fault and this person is left unscathed when he lived the life of a recluse, it is not fair. As like Lettie said “all’s well that ends well”, yet there should have been a retribution for the interferer in his friend’s affairs.
4 stars
𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 onscreen foreplays scene
I have been granted an advance copy by the author, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://fb.watch/evYb-A_ES0/
https://www.facebook.com/100048385306...
#bookstagram #historicalromance #romance #romancebookblog #romancebookblogger #bookblog #romanceauthor #bookblogger #2022read #bookstagrammer #bookreview #romancebookreviewer #arcreader #bookquote #romancestagram #readersofinstagram
July 23, 2022
This is my first Christi Caldwell book but it won't be my last. Even though it was just less than 100 pages the story was so engaging I didn't want to put it down. I love friends to lovers. There's an old rift between the her love interest and her big brother just makes it more interesting. There is so much story packed into these pages. The story pulled at my heart and I was rooting for them to make it the whole way. There is much wisdom and forgiveness in here.
Lettie Brookfield's mother is desperate to get her middle daughter wed given she's 26 and essentially a spinster. Lettie wants to be loved like her older brother Rhys is with her best friend Alice. Rhys is Marquess of Guilford now, he and Alice have 4 children and another on the way. Lettie doesn't want to spend her life living with her cold, controlling mother and being a burden on her brother. Lord Exmoor has been quietly courting her but there is no chemistry between them. She would be settling if she married him with no passion.
Anthony Granville, now a Duke with the death of his father. HE is in London after almost 20 years absent, to see to his sister Eloise's first season. When he spies the Brookfields across a ballroom he seeks an escape. He and Rhys were best friends until he betrayed Rhys my coming on to Rhys' fiancé. He did it at the request of Rhys' mother who was desperate to breakup 18 year old Rhys and his actress love. Being only almost 17, Anthony thought he was helping his friend but in reality he was being manipulated by Rhys' mother.
He and Lettie were friends in their youth and Lettie is overjoyed to be reunited with Anthony now that she's all grown up. Eventually Anthony tells her why they can't be together. They have so much chemistry they cannot manage to stay away from each other, finding ways to spend time together. Lettie is so wise for a young woman and she helps Anthony and Rhys talk things out after talking to them separately.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Lettie Brookfield's mother is desperate to get her middle daughter wed given she's 26 and essentially a spinster. Lettie wants to be loved like her older brother Rhys is with her best friend Alice. Rhys is Marquess of Guilford now, he and Alice have 4 children and another on the way. Lettie doesn't want to spend her life living with her cold, controlling mother and being a burden on her brother. Lord Exmoor has been quietly courting her but there is no chemistry between them. She would be settling if she married him with no passion.
Anthony Granville, now a Duke with the death of his father. HE is in London after almost 20 years absent, to see to his sister Eloise's first season. When he spies the Brookfields across a ballroom he seeks an escape. He and Rhys were best friends until he betrayed Rhys my coming on to Rhys' fiancé. He did it at the request of Rhys' mother who was desperate to breakup 18 year old Rhys and his actress love. Being only almost 17, Anthony thought he was helping his friend but in reality he was being manipulated by Rhys' mother.
He and Lettie were friends in their youth and Lettie is overjoyed to be reunited with Anthony now that she's all grown up. Eventually Anthony tells her why they can't be together. They have so much chemistry they cannot manage to stay away from each other, finding ways to spend time together. Lettie is so wise for a young woman and she helps Anthony and Rhys talk things out after talking to them separately.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 27, 2022
This book sees the fabulous Christi Caldwell return to her brilliant Heart of a Duke series, although reading previous titles is not necessary the reader will want to after finishing this book. Our heroine is Lettie, unmarried spinsterish sister to Rhys the former best friend of our hero Anthony. Lettie is tired of attending London season after season, she reluctantly agrees to consider Lord Exmoor at her mothers urging. He being the only one who considers her marriage worthy. The last thing see wants is to be dependent on her families kindness but she also doesn’t want to lose her voice and independence which is what she fears will happen when she marries Exmoor. Years ago Anthony betrayed his best friend and since then he has stayed away from events in London however his sister is on her first season and he must marry to continue the ducal line. Our couple meet and renew their friendship from years ago. Lettie soon discovers that Anthony is everything she wants in a husband. Although he has similar feelings he knows his past prevents him from pursuing Lettie. Not one to let things lie Lettie is determined to resolve things and get her man. Ultimately our couple find happiness and their HEA. I loved this book, as a series fan it was good to revisit previous characters and also it was fabulous to have Anthony redeemed and find love. Christi delivers a wonderful story as usual and I can’t recommend this book enough wether you are a fan or new to her you will enjoy this story.
I received and reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book and this is my honest opinions and review.
I received and reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book and this is my honest opinions and review.
August 4, 2022
Swoon...
Marriage minded mamas need to be given time outs!! While it is a duty for them, a modicum of respect for the daughters should be a requirement. It should also be said that manipulation, while often employed, is not good in any way. Too often people's lives are negatively affected. Too think that a manipulation 17 years ago could have broken yet another heart hurt my heart.
Thankfully, Lettie didn't let the manipulation affect her happiness. Thankfully she pursued what her heart wanted. She is a smart, loyal, joy filled woman who deserves someone who will enjoy her mind and appreciate her joy.
Anthony, now Duke of Granville, needs to get out of his own way. He needs to stand up for his own heart and stop his pity party. He needs to put the majority of the blame for his estrangement from a dear friend at the feet of the person truly responsible. It took another his mother to see what his heart knew. Finally a loving and open mama!!!
Ms. Caldwell's stories continue to bring joy and welcome respite from day-to-day concerns. The characters show deep emotion and are instantly likeable. I have been a fan of Ms. Caldwell's forever and she does not disappoint!
Marriage minded mamas need to be given time outs!! While it is a duty for them, a modicum of respect for the daughters should be a requirement. It should also be said that manipulation, while often employed, is not good in any way. Too often people's lives are negatively affected. Too think that a manipulation 17 years ago could have broken yet another heart hurt my heart.
Thankfully, Lettie didn't let the manipulation affect her happiness. Thankfully she pursued what her heart wanted. She is a smart, loyal, joy filled woman who deserves someone who will enjoy her mind and appreciate her joy.
Anthony, now Duke of Granville, needs to get out of his own way. He needs to stand up for his own heart and stop his pity party. He needs to put the majority of the blame for his estrangement from a dear friend at the feet of the person truly responsible. It took another his mother to see what his heart knew. Finally a loving and open mama!!!
Ms. Caldwell's stories continue to bring joy and welcome respite from day-to-day concerns. The characters show deep emotion and are instantly likeable. I have been a fan of Ms. Caldwell's forever and she does not disappoint!
June 2, 2024
This story was SO good and it’s been a minute since I struggled to stay awake just to keep reading because I just HAD to know what happened! It was quickly becoming one of the best in the genre books I’ve read in a long time, and then it just…ended! It was over, so abruptly!! With so many loose ends! I NEED to know how Lord Exmoor reacted in that final moment (which, maybe we will learn in the next book, I haven’t read it yet). I need to know what Lettie’s mom had to say! I wanted someone to call her out and bring us some closure to address even “some” of the pain she was responsible for creating in her children’s lives. I was relieved to see who the next story is about so Caroline has a happy ending, and I knew I wanted a story for Exmoor since truly I was feeling bad for him. This book ended so fast though, and it just seemed entirely unexpected. But I absolutely loved it, otherwise! The connection between Lettie and Anthony felt so strong and I found myself grinning through so much of it! Especially about the sorry excuse for flowers 💐☺️ No really, what the hell ARE those?
July 26, 2022
Starring Lady Lettice “Lettie” Brookfield and Anthony Grafton, the Duke of Granville
Tropes: Childhood Friends to Lovers, Older Brother’s (ex) Best Friend, Forbidden Love, Age Gap (Hero older by 7yrs)
I absolutely adored Lettie and Anthony’s story. This has all my favorite tropes!! So much feels!! Ugly cry AF and Book hangover achieved!!
Oh Anthony! The backstory why he stayed away from Lettie’s family was a little heartbreaking. I just wanted to hug him. He was such a moody hero… which is totally my Kryptonite. His grand gesture at the end had me laughing and crying at the same time!! I just loved everything about him… so scrumptious!!
I love that Lettie kinda bulldozed her way back into Anthony’s life. Even after so many years apart, she just assumed that they would continue on with their friendship. She was a quiet storm that whirled around Anthony’s heart and he couldn’t resist her. She was exactly what he needed to put the spark back into his life. She was an amazing heroine.
Christi Caldwell’s stories are a guaranteed feels. She writes brilliantly and her characters are worth cheering for. Total keeper shelf author!!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I voluntarily review it and the comments are 100% my own.
My Star Rating: 5 stars
Ugly cried AF. Major book hangover. Characters and storyline were freaken amazeballs. Made me wanna hug the author for writing a book that gave me all the feels!! Will definitely be reading this story over and over and over again!!
Tropes: Childhood Friends to Lovers, Older Brother’s (ex) Best Friend, Forbidden Love, Age Gap (Hero older by 7yrs)
I absolutely adored Lettie and Anthony’s story. This has all my favorite tropes!! So much feels!! Ugly cry AF and Book hangover achieved!!
Oh Anthony! The backstory why he stayed away from Lettie’s family was a little heartbreaking. I just wanted to hug him. He was such a moody hero… which is totally my Kryptonite. His grand gesture at the end had me laughing and crying at the same time!! I just loved everything about him… so scrumptious!!
I love that Lettie kinda bulldozed her way back into Anthony’s life. Even after so many years apart, she just assumed that they would continue on with their friendship. She was a quiet storm that whirled around Anthony’s heart and he couldn’t resist her. She was exactly what he needed to put the spark back into his life. She was an amazing heroine.
Christi Caldwell’s stories are a guaranteed feels. She writes brilliantly and her characters are worth cheering for. Total keeper shelf author!!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I voluntarily review it and the comments are 100% my own.
My Star Rating: 5 stars
Ugly cried AF. Major book hangover. Characters and storyline were freaken amazeballs. Made me wanna hug the author for writing a book that gave me all the feels!! Will definitely be reading this story over and over and over again!!
July 20, 2022
It seems I always start my reviews from this author by saying I was hooked after a couple of pages, but it is always true! Christi Caldwell's characters have such substance; the dialogue and bountiful humor are well written with genuinely emotional scenes. Anthony and Lettie were childhood friends, and he was Lettie's older brother's best friend, but something happened, and Anthony left society. After years away he is back to escort his sister in her first season but the one thing he wasn't ready for was Lettie being a beautiful, grown lady. Their chemistry was off the charts but the past falling out with Lettie's brother would be difficult to overcome. This book had it all - I laughed, got teary-eyed and turned pages at warp speed to find out what happens next, and, in the end, I was rewarded with a romantic HEA and a smile on my face! I voluntarily read & reviewed an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book; all thoughts & opinions are my own.
July 9, 2022
I received an ARC of "Defying The Duke" from the amazing multi-faceted, multi-talented Christi Caldwell. Lady Lettie Brookfield is in her seventh season, with only one possible matrimonial proposition. She is a vibrant young lady who wants passion and love in her marriage which she doesn't aee happening with her present prospective pursuer. Anthony, the Duke of Granville, is an estranged friend of Lettie's older brother, Rhys, but someone whom Lettie very much enjoyed spending time with as a youngster. Now having met him again after an eon, she is drawn to him and feels a connection. Anthony is ashamed of how his friendship broke, and how he parted ways with Rhys. Yet seeing Lettie all grown up awakens feelings in him he never knew he possessed. This is a beautifully written, well visualized story. It was so good I read the whole book in one sitting.
July 20, 2022
Never met a Christi Caldwell book that I didn’t love, or want to give more than a five star rating. This one is no exception! It has all the feels! Impossible not to fall in love with the characters in her books, and to become personally involved in their relationships. Lady Lettie is a delight. She’s vibrant and outgoing, but suppressed under the thumb of a hideous mother, and now she’s nearly a spinster. But then Anthony returns, after years of being away. He was her brother’s best friend and her hero, but now he’s a brooding Duke, and estranged from her brother. She is determined to find out why. Drawn to one another, she longs for a future with him, but, because of his betrayal of her brother, he knows this can never be! A most enjoyable read and very difficult to put down !
July 23, 2022
Christi Caldwell never, ever lets me down. When I’m reading something that I don’t particularly like or I’m tired and I want to relax, I turn to one of Christi’s books and I’m never disappointed. I loved the romantic side of this tale and the emotional steamy bits. It’s a shorter book, but it’s perfect. It never drags on, it goes straight to the point, which is the gorgeous love story between the two characters. Lettie is a wonderful heroine, full of life and love to give and Anthony is exactly the type of hero I like, broody and with a slightly dark past. Perfection as always.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 26, 2022
A wonderful story of the heart that Christi Caldwell is the master of writing!
She was in her seventh season and her only prospect was a man she did not love. But what else was she to do? Then she spied him, after so many years and knew where he true heart lay.
He had been away after betraying his best friend, but needs to take his place as the Duke and aid his sister in her come out. When he sees her, he cannot believe how much she has grown up and how beautiful she has become. But knows they have no future.
A short, but so sweet story that I could not put down! Do not miss it!
She was in her seventh season and her only prospect was a man she did not love. But what else was she to do? Then she spied him, after so many years and knew where he true heart lay.
He had been away after betraying his best friend, but needs to take his place as the Duke and aid his sister in her come out. When he sees her, he cannot believe how much she has grown up and how beautiful she has become. But knows they have no future.
A short, but so sweet story that I could not put down! Do not miss it!
August 2, 2022
This was a great story. Christi is one of my favorite authors and this did not disappoint. It is a shorter story with two characters who have known each other since they were children. When they meet again it is immediate mutual attraction! However, the road to love is not easy or smooth. The dialogue between the two characters is great and the angst is not overdone. It was just the right level of past difficulties to offset the mutual attraction and love.
Highly recommend reading this for a quick, pleasurable story with some great romance.
Highly recommend reading this for a quick, pleasurable story with some great romance.
March 5, 2025
i really liked lettie. she wholeheartedly believed that her childhood playmate wasn’t the villain her brother made him out to be. her loyalty and unwavering faith in him made her such a compelling character.
while the romance developed quickly, it worked well within the novella’s length. i wasn’t expecting a slow burn, but i still enjoyed watching their relationship unfold. despite the shorter format, the emotional connection between them felt genuine and satisfying.
*defying the duke* was a charming, heartfelt read, and i had a great time with it!
while the romance developed quickly, it worked well within the novella’s length. i wasn’t expecting a slow burn, but i still enjoyed watching their relationship unfold. despite the shorter format, the emotional connection between them felt genuine and satisfying.
*defying the duke* was a charming, heartfelt read, and i had a great time with it!
July 27, 2022
This is my 74th book by Christi Caldwell. I read 2 of her books in 2013 but didn’t pick her up again to read faithfully until 2015.
She is a great writer, has great stories and well written sex scenes.
I really enjoyed this book. I enjoyed reading about Lettie and Anthony. Such a great couple. I hate that their story was such a short read because I finished it so quickly and would have liked to have read about them.
I would definitely recommend this book.
She is a great writer, has great stories and well written sex scenes.
I really enjoyed this book. I enjoyed reading about Lettie and Anthony. Such a great couple. I hate that their story was such a short read because I finished it so quickly and would have liked to have read about them.
I would definitely recommend this book.
August 10, 2022
The Heart of a Duke series is one of the best!
Anthony and Rhys were best friends. Rhys thought Anthony betrayed him. Now years later Anthony is back and Rhys sister Lettie is everything he has ever wanted. But Rhys hates him still. Lettie finds Anthony is the only man she wants. But Her brother hates him. But when the heart of a Duke is involved, miracles still happen. One more great story in a long line of great stories!
Anthony and Rhys were best friends. Rhys thought Anthony betrayed him. Now years later Anthony is back and Rhys sister Lettie is everything he has ever wanted. But Rhys hates him still. Lettie finds Anthony is the only man she wants. But Her brother hates him. But when the heart of a Duke is involved, miracles still happen. One more great story in a long line of great stories!
July 13, 2022
I really loved Ms Christi’s development of these characters. I truly loved Lettie’s ‘ take no prisoners’ attitude and her charming disregard of the ton’s rules, being herself in spite of a decidedly nasty mother. Anthony’s attempt to help his friend in the past only gets him in trouble, causing grief for his future. I would have loved to have smacked Lettie’s mom and hugged Anthony’s mom. When one writes characters that create such emotion, you’ve done a good job! Can’t wait to see Caroline’s story.
July 13, 2022
This is an absolutely delightful read. The chemistry between Letty and Anthony is wonderful. There were some misunderstandings between Letty and Anthony and her brother had a problem with Anthony from the past, but the resolution is wonderful. I highly recommend reading this book. Ms. Caldwell has done it again.
August 9, 2022
A great read
I enjoyed reading about Anthony and Lettie, how they knew each and how they would fall in love. She a spinster and him a Duke, he had been her brothers best friend till they had a falling out. His family was all for him marrying Lettie. I can't wait to find out what happens next. I highly recommend this book! 👍👍👍👍❤❤❤❤
I enjoyed reading about Anthony and Lettie, how they knew each and how they would fall in love. She a spinster and him a Duke, he had been her brothers best friend till they had a falling out. His family was all for him marrying Lettie. I can't wait to find out what happens next. I highly recommend this book! 👍👍👍👍❤❤❤❤
December 19, 2022
Okay…but not one of my favorites by Caldwell
I really enjoy Caldwell’s books, but this one felt sort of perfunctory…like she had to write a book to meet a deadline and so she came up with something short, sweet, and simple. I didn’t dislike the book, but if I had to leave the room while listening to the audio, I just kept it playing.
I really enjoy Caldwell’s books, but this one felt sort of perfunctory…like she had to write a book to meet a deadline and so she came up with something short, sweet, and simple. I didn’t dislike the book, but if I had to leave the room while listening to the audio, I just kept it playing.
April 5, 2023
Loved it!
I loved this book and the characters. Lettie was a headstrong blue stocking that was full of life when her mother didn't tamp it down. Anthony was her brother's ex best friend. As soon as they reunited, the underlying passion began. Getting down to a few kisses and the truth made this book interesting. I look forward to the next book in the series.
I loved this book and the characters. Lettie was a headstrong blue stocking that was full of life when her mother didn't tamp it down. Anthony was her brother's ex best friend. As soon as they reunited, the underlying passion began. Getting down to a few kisses and the truth made this book interesting. I look forward to the next book in the series.
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