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The Vault Collection #1
Duquesa do Meu Coração
Romance histórico irresistível da autora bestseller Maya Banks.
O amor de Jillian e Justin é um escândalo inevitável.
Autora bestseller do New York Times e do USA Today
O casamento de Jillian era um autêntico pesadelo. Por isso, quando ela recebeu a notícia da morte do marido, foi como se tivessem atendido às suas preces. Agora, ela está desejosa de experimentar o sabor da liberdade, mesmo que, para isso, tenha de desafiar as regras da sociedade. Jillian não está disposta a fazer o luto pelo marido, às mãos de quem sofreu as mais terríveis perversidades. Para tal, contará com o apoio do seu melhor amigo, Case.
Justin, o oitavo duque de Whittington, está determinado a salvar o nome da sua família do escândalo que o seu irmão Case está a criar. Porém, a adorável Jillian não é o inimigo que ele esperava. Tão irritante quanto vulnerável, ele nunca conheceu uma mulher como ela — escandalosa, imprevisível e completamente inadequada, mas absolutamente irresistível. À medida que o amor acontece entre ambos, Justin percebe que, antes de poderem pensar num futuro em conjunto, ele tem de salvar Jillian do seu passado.
Elogios da crí
«Os livros de Maya Banks arrastam-nos num turbilhão de emoções.» - USA Today
O amor de Jillian e Justin é um escândalo inevitável.
Autora bestseller do New York Times e do USA Today
O casamento de Jillian era um autêntico pesadelo. Por isso, quando ela recebeu a notícia da morte do marido, foi como se tivessem atendido às suas preces. Agora, ela está desejosa de experimentar o sabor da liberdade, mesmo que, para isso, tenha de desafiar as regras da sociedade. Jillian não está disposta a fazer o luto pelo marido, às mãos de quem sofreu as mais terríveis perversidades. Para tal, contará com o apoio do seu melhor amigo, Case.
Justin, o oitavo duque de Whittington, está determinado a salvar o nome da sua família do escândalo que o seu irmão Case está a criar. Porém, a adorável Jillian não é o inimigo que ele esperava. Tão irritante quanto vulnerável, ele nunca conheceu uma mulher como ela — escandalosa, imprevisível e completamente inadequada, mas absolutamente irresistível. À medida que o amor acontece entre ambos, Justin percebe que, antes de poderem pensar num futuro em conjunto, ele tem de salvar Jillian do seu passado.
Elogios da crí
«Os livros de Maya Banks arrastam-nos num turbilhão de emoções.» - USA Today
305 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 20, 2019
228 people are currently reading
1546 people want to read
About the author
Maya Banks
244 books21.5k followersMaya Banks is the #1 New York Times, #1 USA Today and international bestselling author of over 50 novels. A wife and mother of three, she lives in Texas.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 161 reviews
January 8, 2021
8th Jan 2021 - This remains a really good read I always enjoy. Review below stands.
4.5 Delighted Stars
I adored this read, and found myself trying to sneak in a read of it throughout what turned into a very busy day. Definitely going in my re-read pile!
Lady Jillian has found herself blessedly free from her vicious and repugnant husband, his death giving her a freedom she never hoped to have, and so she refuses to play to society’s dictate and pretend to mourn the monster she was wed to. Helping her in her quest to ensure her husband is squirming in his grave (metaphorically speaking since the ship he was on sank), is her dearest friend Case, the problem is society cannot accept that they are simply dear friends and so whispers abound and scandal erupts. When the Duke of Whittington – Justin, reads about his brother and Jillian in the scandal sheets, he hightails it to London, determined to protect his brother and remove him from the grasping clutches of an improper woman.
When Jillian and Justin first meet there is a connection that neither seem to understand, but once Justin realises who Jillian is, or who he thinks she is, well the tension erupts. Watching these two verbally spare was such fun, and when Justin finally realises the truth about Jillian and his feelings for her, well the HEA is threatened by Jillian’s fears of revoking control and by an unknown assailant who wants her dead.
I did wish the author had depicted the consequences of Jillian’s trauma during her marriage more explicitly earlier on, and that the book was a little longer. Also at times the language used felt a tad too modern, and I wish we had seen one lord get more than a punch from Justin, but these are very small complaints.
Overall, this was a delightful little morsel, found myself engaged by the main characters and smiling a fair bit through the first half, and then keeping my fingers crossed everything would work out in the latter half of the book.
Triggers:
4.5 Delighted Stars
I adored this read, and found myself trying to sneak in a read of it throughout what turned into a very busy day. Definitely going in my re-read pile!
Lady Jillian has found herself blessedly free from her vicious and repugnant husband, his death giving her a freedom she never hoped to have, and so she refuses to play to society’s dictate and pretend to mourn the monster she was wed to. Helping her in her quest to ensure her husband is squirming in his grave (metaphorically speaking since the ship he was on sank), is her dearest friend Case, the problem is society cannot accept that they are simply dear friends and so whispers abound and scandal erupts. When the Duke of Whittington – Justin, reads about his brother and Jillian in the scandal sheets, he hightails it to London, determined to protect his brother and remove him from the grasping clutches of an improper woman.
When Jillian and Justin first meet there is a connection that neither seem to understand, but once Justin realises who Jillian is, or who he thinks she is, well the tension erupts. Watching these two verbally spare was such fun, and when Justin finally realises the truth about Jillian and his feelings for her, well the HEA is threatened by Jillian’s fears of revoking control and by an unknown assailant who wants her dead.
I did wish the author had depicted the consequences of Jillian’s trauma during her marriage more explicitly earlier on, and that the book was a little longer. Also at times the language used felt a tad too modern, and I wish we had seen one lord get more than a punch from Justin, but these are very small complaints.
Overall, this was a delightful little morsel, found myself engaged by the main characters and smiling a fair bit through the first half, and then keeping my fingers crossed everything would work out in the latter half of the book.
Triggers:
April 10, 2021
TW for abuse.
4.5 Stars.
WE LOVE A HATE TO LOVE ROMANCE. This book was so good. From the start, my heart went out to Jillian. She was in an abusive relationship and the book starts with her finding out her husband is dead. She does not grieve for him and causes as scandal in society, but she does not care. She does what she wants and is thriving as a widow. She's best friend's with Case and Case's brother Justin is a duke who absolutely detests Jillian and her behavior in society. Jillian expresses interest in having an affair and I really loved her exploration of her own freedom and sexuality and actually enjoying intimacy as opposed to what she had in her marriage. It was hard reading about what Jillian had gone through and why she hated her husband so much. But she is such a strong character and does not care what society or Justin thinks about her behavior. The romance was everything in here and I really enjoyed how Justin and Jillian fell for each other. Also, we had an added mystery of someone who was trying to kill Jillian, which always spices up a plot. I can't wait to continue on in this series!
4.5 Stars.
WE LOVE A HATE TO LOVE ROMANCE. This book was so good. From the start, my heart went out to Jillian. She was in an abusive relationship and the book starts with her finding out her husband is dead. She does not grieve for him and causes as scandal in society, but she does not care. She does what she wants and is thriving as a widow. She's best friend's with Case and Case's brother Justin is a duke who absolutely detests Jillian and her behavior in society. Jillian expresses interest in having an affair and I really loved her exploration of her own freedom and sexuality and actually enjoying intimacy as opposed to what she had in her marriage. It was hard reading about what Jillian had gone through and why she hated her husband so much. But she is such a strong character and does not care what society or Justin thinks about her behavior. The romance was everything in here and I really enjoyed how Justin and Jillian fell for each other. Also, we had an added mystery of someone who was trying to kill Jillian, which always spices up a plot. I can't wait to continue on in this series!
June 6, 2019
Perfect
I loved this book. I loved Justin the hero I loved Case his brother and Hawk the cousin. But the truly wonderful part of the book was the heroine Jillian. And she was a honest to God, absolutely awesome heroine and she saved herself. She was strong, and after all she had been through still triumphed. I don't want to give the plot away but someone is trying to kill her and she has three men doing all they can to save her. Justin was the perfect hero and I loved how much he loved her. She deserved love even though she fought it. Just a wonderful story. There are some hard topics in here, marital rape and vile abuse from her past. It was hard to read about. But she overcame it and the ending was perfect. I can't wAit to read the other books in the series. Especially Case's. I felt so bad for him. I hope she gives him an amazing heroine.
I loved this book. I loved Justin the hero I loved Case his brother and Hawk the cousin. But the truly wonderful part of the book was the heroine Jillian. And she was a honest to God, absolutely awesome heroine and she saved herself. She was strong, and after all she had been through still triumphed. I don't want to give the plot away but someone is trying to kill her and she has three men doing all they can to save her. Justin was the perfect hero and I loved how much he loved her. She deserved love even though she fought it. Just a wonderful story. There are some hard topics in here, marital rape and vile abuse from her past. It was hard to read about. But she overcame it and the ending was perfect. I can't wAit to read the other books in the series. Especially Case's. I felt so bad for him. I hope she gives him an amazing heroine.
August 17, 2019
I was left completely satisfied...
***4.5 Stars***
Duchess of My Heart is my kind of historical romance. I don't usually compare authors, but I was reminded of Kerrigan Byrne's style (which is a very high compliment) while reading. Just that hint of darkness mixed with ball gowns, calling cards and plenty of pomp and ceremony. This story made my heart beat faster and the smile of delight and discovery was on my face from the beginning to the end.
There are so many parts of historical romance that I adore and I can admit to always putting myself in the heroine's shoes. I love the idea of a maid preparing me for a ball. What I wouldn't do for someone to style my hair, iron my clothes and clean the aftermath of getting ready. I want tea and cakes brought to me on a tray. I want to be twirled around a dance floor with my beautiful dress flowing around me. I want to step back in time and be the lady at the ball.
Duchess of My Heart does have a teeny bit of a modern feel to it but to be honest, that made me enjoy it a wee bit more. I can sometimes get disheartened and depressed for the women and what they suffered through back in the day. I would hate to marry for anything but love and I would hate to have to stay married to an abusive husband because you are their property. So, if the heroine wants to flout the rules and wear a pretty dress when she's supposed to be in mourning...well hoorah for her.
Justin and Jillian's love story left me completely satisfied. There was an instant attraction between these two but it was hampered from progressing because of Jillian's past. For her, she was not at all keen to be vulnerable again as she has only just gained back her freedom. For him, he was brought up to believe that strictly following societies rules is the only way. The fact that Jillian has been flouting the rules with Justin's brother Case, means that Justin is already thinking the worst of Jillian. Not everything is as it seems, though and soon enough Justin has to reassess his original opinion of the beautiful woman. When Jillian's life is in danger, nothing will stop Justin from finding her enemy.
I think Maya Banks does a fantastic job of bringing these characters to life. I couldn't help but fall in love with Justin and Jillian. Justin is definitely, what I like to call a 'Darcy'. Slightly pompous at the beginning but ultimately shows his true feelings and emotions once his heart is engaged. He is protective of those he loves and will do anything to see to their happiness. Jillian is a woman who decides to find a new and happy path after surviving abuse. Unfortunately, that happy path does have a few cracks but now she has friends to help her over them. The additional characters are well developed and I hope to encounter them again in future books.
By the end of Duchess of My Heart, I was experiencing a historical romance high. The storyline kept me entertained from start to finish and I was never bored or bogged down in the descriptions. The love story was sweet with just the right amount of heat to show that these characters were feeling more than just lust. The despicable things that Jillian faced and survived were described in a way that broke my heart but was never too much. I loved that Justin blamed the right people when it came time for Jillian to recount the past events that nearly destroyed her. Justin's patience, support and gentleness showed his love and commitment to Jillian's happiness.
I am so excited that this is the first instalment of The Vault Collection and I can't wait for more in the series.
***4.5 Stars***
Duchess of My Heart is my kind of historical romance. I don't usually compare authors, but I was reminded of Kerrigan Byrne's style (which is a very high compliment) while reading. Just that hint of darkness mixed with ball gowns, calling cards and plenty of pomp and ceremony. This story made my heart beat faster and the smile of delight and discovery was on my face from the beginning to the end.
There are so many parts of historical romance that I adore and I can admit to always putting myself in the heroine's shoes. I love the idea of a maid preparing me for a ball. What I wouldn't do for someone to style my hair, iron my clothes and clean the aftermath of getting ready. I want tea and cakes brought to me on a tray. I want to be twirled around a dance floor with my beautiful dress flowing around me. I want to step back in time and be the lady at the ball.
Duchess of My Heart does have a teeny bit of a modern feel to it but to be honest, that made me enjoy it a wee bit more. I can sometimes get disheartened and depressed for the women and what they suffered through back in the day. I would hate to marry for anything but love and I would hate to have to stay married to an abusive husband because you are their property. So, if the heroine wants to flout the rules and wear a pretty dress when she's supposed to be in mourning...well hoorah for her.
Justin and Jillian's love story left me completely satisfied. There was an instant attraction between these two but it was hampered from progressing because of Jillian's past. For her, she was not at all keen to be vulnerable again as she has only just gained back her freedom. For him, he was brought up to believe that strictly following societies rules is the only way. The fact that Jillian has been flouting the rules with Justin's brother Case, means that Justin is already thinking the worst of Jillian. Not everything is as it seems, though and soon enough Justin has to reassess his original opinion of the beautiful woman. When Jillian's life is in danger, nothing will stop Justin from finding her enemy.
I think Maya Banks does a fantastic job of bringing these characters to life. I couldn't help but fall in love with Justin and Jillian. Justin is definitely, what I like to call a 'Darcy'. Slightly pompous at the beginning but ultimately shows his true feelings and emotions once his heart is engaged. He is protective of those he loves and will do anything to see to their happiness. Jillian is a woman who decides to find a new and happy path after surviving abuse. Unfortunately, that happy path does have a few cracks but now she has friends to help her over them. The additional characters are well developed and I hope to encounter them again in future books.
By the end of Duchess of My Heart, I was experiencing a historical romance high. The storyline kept me entertained from start to finish and I was never bored or bogged down in the descriptions. The love story was sweet with just the right amount of heat to show that these characters were feeling more than just lust. The despicable things that Jillian faced and survived were described in a way that broke my heart but was never too much. I loved that Justin blamed the right people when it came time for Jillian to recount the past events that nearly destroyed her. Justin's patience, support and gentleness showed his love and commitment to Jillian's happiness.
I am so excited that this is the first instalment of The Vault Collection and I can't wait for more in the series.
April 28, 2021
You know this book looks like it was the draft, just a lot of ideas thrown here and there, everything happening fast. The skeleton was there, but it just didn't have any meat.
I did not like how the heroine acted in the beginning and I did not like how the Duke acted in the end just running away...
A lot of my friends have good reviews about this book, but it definitely dint work for me.
I did not like how the heroine acted in the beginning and I did not like how the Duke acted in the end just running away...
A lot of my friends have good reviews about this book, but it definitely dint work for me.
September 23, 2021
It has been a while since I read historical romance by Miss Banks. Miss Banks is well known for her erotic romance.
In Duchess of My Heart, thd BDSM is tame down and replaced with cheesy romance.
Even it is cheesy, Miss Banks done a good job bringing the story alive. I enjoy the book more than I expected.
3 stars
In Duchess of My Heart, thd BDSM is tame down and replaced with cheesy romance.
Even it is cheesy, Miss Banks done a good job bringing the story alive. I enjoy the book more than I expected.
3 stars
October 28, 2020
.
I quite enjoyed the first 3/4 but it kinda got too OTT during the last quarter.
Justin doesn't want his brother Case hanging around that uncouth tart, Jillian.
But over a few months he gets to know her better, and then it becomes clear that someone is trying to kill Jillian. Honestly don't read this for intrigue cause it was pretty obvious who was out to kill her.
But I did like the slow steady way that Justin and Jillian fell in love with each other.
So it wasn't as good as some of the author's classic HRs but it was entertaining.
The villain was ridiculously OTT evil and keeps turning up like a bad penny.
Romantic safety is all good
Violent safety is iffy
I quite enjoyed the first 3/4 but it kinda got too OTT during the last quarter.
Justin doesn't want his brother Case hanging around that uncouth tart, Jillian.
But over a few months he gets to know her better, and then it becomes clear that someone is trying to kill Jillian. Honestly don't read this for intrigue cause it was pretty obvious who was out to kill her.
But I did like the slow steady way that Justin and Jillian fell in love with each other.
So it wasn't as good as some of the author's classic HRs but it was entertaining.
The villain was ridiculously OTT evil and keeps turning up like a bad penny.
Romantic safety is all good
Violent safety is iffy
July 5, 2021
Reread: 4 stars. I must have been in a shitty mood the first time I read this book. This time, I really did love it. I hated the heroine’s past - but only because it was so brutal and we didn’t get full retaliation against everyone who wronged her. The hero is perfect, everything a romance book hero should be. The ending of this book is really lovely, the HEA was perfect and I even shed a few tears.
Safe for me; H&h are only with each other, OM drama. MAJOR spoiler:
——
3 stars. This book wasn’t great, but it wasn’t bad either. I was disappointed by the half way point, thinking it was too predictable and a bit rushed. It did pick up though, and the story became more interesting. Not bad for a quick read. I found the most fault with how quickly the heroine seemed to get over her issues once she met the hero. I don’t really think that this author did any credit to the severe trauma that the heroine experienced.
Probably safe for most
Safe for me; H&h are only with each other, OM drama. MAJOR spoiler:
——
3 stars. This book wasn’t great, but it wasn’t bad either. I was disappointed by the half way point, thinking it was too predictable and a bit rushed. It did pick up though, and the story became more interesting. Not bad for a quick read. I found the most fault with how quickly the heroine seemed to get over her issues once she met the hero. I don’t really think that this author did any credit to the severe trauma that the heroine experienced.
Probably safe for most
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 21, 2019
This is a case where I continue to read an author who has in the past written some books I really liked, but in looking over them collectively, I realize I disliked a lot more than the two or three I really liked. So I am thinking this is not an author for me any longer.
This book felt unrealistic and the writing and situations felt too modern in tone. The characters did not feel logical either in action, motivations or conversation. There were too many dramatic and public confrontations. Everything about this felt simplistic and ridiculous.
This book felt unrealistic and the writing and situations felt too modern in tone. The characters did not feel logical either in action, motivations or conversation. There were too many dramatic and public confrontations. Everything about this felt simplistic and ridiculous.
March 18, 2022
Is there a book 2 ?
But my goodness this book !!!
I can’t find the words to express how much this book angst-i-fied meeeee!
Ngl, the hero was a bit useless in his attempt to protect the heroine, she still received all her beating and abuse from her ex-husband whilst under the hero’s protection.
The heroine was so strong bless her!
The starts are for her 💞💞
But my goodness this book !!!
I can’t find the words to express how much this book angst-i-fied meeeee!
Ngl, the hero was a bit useless in his attempt to protect the heroine, she still received all her beating and abuse from her ex-husband whilst under the hero’s protection.
The heroine was so strong bless her!
The starts are for her 💞💞
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 11, 2025
This book was wobbling on thin ice... then shot itself on the foot
And instead of properly tending to the non-life-threatening wound, it decided to go take a swim in the Thames.
Spoiler-y rant ahead. Proceed with caution.
・
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・
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━
🕮⋆˚࿔✎𓂃 𝐣𝐨𝐢𝐧 𝐦𝐲 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐲 𝐟𝐮𝐥𝐥 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━
And instead of properly tending to the non-life-threatening wound, it decided to go take a swim in the Thames.
Spoiler-y rant ahead. Proceed with caution.
・
・
・
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━
🕮⋆˚࿔✎𓂃 𝐣𝐨𝐢𝐧 𝐦𝐲 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐲 𝐟𝐮𝐥𝐥 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━
September 5, 2020
The book should have ended around chapter 20 instead of 30. Lots of anachronisms. (Not sure if I’m using that term correctly).
June 14, 2021
This book is so sweet 😀 !
This story is the normal enemies to lovers romance. However, this book had interesting twists that I wasn’t expecting.
There’s a disclaimer for violence.
Easy read perfect for a summer vacations.
This story is the normal enemies to lovers romance. However, this book had interesting twists that I wasn’t expecting.
There’s a disclaimer for violence.
Easy read perfect for a summer vacations.
April 24, 2021
⭐⭐⭐⭐,5
Londra, novembre 1818
Justin Devlin, ottavo duca di Whittington, appena rientrato dall’India si ritrova a che fare con le beghe di famiglia: mettere a tacere le chiacchiere che riguardano il fratello minore.
A quanto pare, Case si è impelagato in una turbinosa – ma soprattutto presunta – relazione con una vedova ben più che allegra. Tale situazione rischia di mettere in serio pericolo il nome della famiglia e futura unione del maggiore dei fratelli; sebbene Justin aspiri a un matrimonio d’amore come quello dei suoi genitori – anche se non ve n’è ancora traccia – non vorrebbe che un’eventuale scelta futura gli venga preclusa da certi comportamenti sconsiderati… d’altronde è un Duca, perdiana!
Tuttavia, per qualche istante, i cattivi pensieri si infrangono di fronte a una celestiale visione…
“Sedeva lì e guardava i cigni, la posa malinconica, il mento poggiato sul palmo della mano. […] Neppure il più talentuoso dei pittori sarebbe stato in grado di catturare appieno la sua grazie. Quei capelli corvini, quegli occhi di smeraldo, quelle labbra piene e sensuali: chi era?”
Già, chi era colei che in pochi istanti di risa, spavento e passione repressa, gli si è stampata nella testa, scordando ciò che era andato a dimenticare lì – in un attimo di divagazione –, a Hyde Park?
Ma la Londra dei salotti, del ton è estremamente piccola e ignobile quando si prefigge di scagliare tiri mancini… e durante il primo ballo dal rientro in città, il sogno e l’incubo, per Justin, si incarnano in una sola persona: la contessa di Penroth.
Giovane e bellissima, non è come si immaginava una vedova; ma soprattutto così sfacciata, nel vestire e nell’ostentare la sua condizione… La particolare amicizia di Case e quell’insensata attrazione che egli stesso prova per la contessa non possono giovare al bene della famiglia, continua a ripetersi il duca! Tra insulti, battibecchi e l’irresistibile voglia di baciarla, Justin si trova sempre più spesso in contatto con la donna, grazie alle disavventure in cui è incappata e dalle quali Case sente di doverla proteggere.
Due fratelli che in maniera diversa amano la stessa donna; una lady in continua fuga dal passato, che lotta con un fantasma che non sembra più tale. Sappiamo già a chi Jillian è destinata, ma non conosciamo a quali compromessi dovrà sottostare, quanti patimenti ancora le aspettano per il tanto agognato lieto fine. Vi consiglio di mettervi comodi per questo viaggio intenso, in un intreccio di inganni, malintesi e amore.
Nel breve riassunto ho nominato appena la protagonista, dandole solo una stereotipata descrizione in una giornata triste a Hyde Park. Ma Jillian è davvero tanto altro oltre l’apparenza che la condanna, che le ha appiccicato addosso un’etichetta che non le appartiene; se da un verso è stata la vendetta a spingerla verso certe decisioni, dall’altro vorrebbe essere, in qualche modo, compresa per le stesse. La contessa, perlopiù, indossa una maschera, scalfita solo da tre eccezionali personaggi: i fratelli Devlin e la contessa madre di Winthtrop. Con l’esempio di lady Bea abbiamo la conferma di quanto conti di più il buon nome di chi ti spalleggia che il comportamento tenuto; basteranno poche parole a rinfrancare il buon nome di Jillian.
La forza, la complicità e l’affetto di due donne. La temerarietà di Justin e Case dei quali abbiamo ampliamente parlato; anche questi ultimi sono ben costruiti e agiranno, a un certo punto, seguendo il cuore. Il Duca, infine, potrà davvero vantare di aver seguito l’esempio dei genitori!
A dei personaggi positivi si antepone l’antagonista che farà penare il lettore all’infinito, ma di cui non posso dirvi altro. Tuttavia vi troverete a riflettere, per l’ennesima volta, sulle condizioni della donna e su quali stratagemmi era costretta ad adattarsi per avere il rispetto dovuto. È vero che adoriamo immergersi in queste finzioni, ma dietro c’è la storia che racconta di abusi con cui ancora, in maniera diversa, ci troviamo a fare i conti. Una riflessione che mi spinge ad amare ancor di più questo genere di romanzi. Maya Banks ha ricostruito una delle tante verità, con arguzia, sapienza e anche una certa freschezza, oltre a cotanta passione; rimarrete colpiti dall’immediata attrazione tra Justin e Jillian, apparendo quasi surreali… ma sapete, le anime affini si riconoscono al primo sguardo, l’importante è far capire loro che sarà un “per sempre”.
— Ma se non riuscite a immaginare di stare lontana da un uomo, se il pensiero di rimanere sena di lui vi causa un’angoscia incommensurabile… allora mia cara, siete innamorata.
Secondo me l’autrice, con semplicità, c’è riuscita a far arrivare questo romanzo nel cuore dei lettori.
Proprio per tutto ciò, vi consiglio “Mia amata duchessa” ricordandovi che è il primo volume (autoconclusivo) della serie “Vault Collection”. Sono certa che, come me, sarete curiosi di incontrare i prossimi protagonisti. Buona lettura!
Londra, novembre 1818
Justin Devlin, ottavo duca di Whittington, appena rientrato dall’India si ritrova a che fare con le beghe di famiglia: mettere a tacere le chiacchiere che riguardano il fratello minore.
A quanto pare, Case si è impelagato in una turbinosa – ma soprattutto presunta – relazione con una vedova ben più che allegra. Tale situazione rischia di mettere in serio pericolo il nome della famiglia e futura unione del maggiore dei fratelli; sebbene Justin aspiri a un matrimonio d’amore come quello dei suoi genitori – anche se non ve n’è ancora traccia – non vorrebbe che un’eventuale scelta futura gli venga preclusa da certi comportamenti sconsiderati… d’altronde è un Duca, perdiana!
Tuttavia, per qualche istante, i cattivi pensieri si infrangono di fronte a una celestiale visione…
“Sedeva lì e guardava i cigni, la posa malinconica, il mento poggiato sul palmo della mano. […] Neppure il più talentuoso dei pittori sarebbe stato in grado di catturare appieno la sua grazie. Quei capelli corvini, quegli occhi di smeraldo, quelle labbra piene e sensuali: chi era?”
Già, chi era colei che in pochi istanti di risa, spavento e passione repressa, gli si è stampata nella testa, scordando ciò che era andato a dimenticare lì – in un attimo di divagazione –, a Hyde Park?
Ma la Londra dei salotti, del ton è estremamente piccola e ignobile quando si prefigge di scagliare tiri mancini… e durante il primo ballo dal rientro in città, il sogno e l’incubo, per Justin, si incarnano in una sola persona: la contessa di Penroth.
Giovane e bellissima, non è come si immaginava una vedova; ma soprattutto così sfacciata, nel vestire e nell’ostentare la sua condizione… La particolare amicizia di Case e quell’insensata attrazione che egli stesso prova per la contessa non possono giovare al bene della famiglia, continua a ripetersi il duca! Tra insulti, battibecchi e l’irresistibile voglia di baciarla, Justin si trova sempre più spesso in contatto con la donna, grazie alle disavventure in cui è incappata e dalle quali Case sente di doverla proteggere.
Due fratelli che in maniera diversa amano la stessa donna; una lady in continua fuga dal passato, che lotta con un fantasma che non sembra più tale. Sappiamo già a chi Jillian è destinata, ma non conosciamo a quali compromessi dovrà sottostare, quanti patimenti ancora le aspettano per il tanto agognato lieto fine. Vi consiglio di mettervi comodi per questo viaggio intenso, in un intreccio di inganni, malintesi e amore.
Nel breve riassunto ho nominato appena la protagonista, dandole solo una stereotipata descrizione in una giornata triste a Hyde Park. Ma Jillian è davvero tanto altro oltre l’apparenza che la condanna, che le ha appiccicato addosso un’etichetta che non le appartiene; se da un verso è stata la vendetta a spingerla verso certe decisioni, dall’altro vorrebbe essere, in qualche modo, compresa per le stesse. La contessa, perlopiù, indossa una maschera, scalfita solo da tre eccezionali personaggi: i fratelli Devlin e la contessa madre di Winthtrop. Con l’esempio di lady Bea abbiamo la conferma di quanto conti di più il buon nome di chi ti spalleggia che il comportamento tenuto; basteranno poche parole a rinfrancare il buon nome di Jillian.
La forza, la complicità e l’affetto di due donne. La temerarietà di Justin e Case dei quali abbiamo ampliamente parlato; anche questi ultimi sono ben costruiti e agiranno, a un certo punto, seguendo il cuore. Il Duca, infine, potrà davvero vantare di aver seguito l’esempio dei genitori!
A dei personaggi positivi si antepone l’antagonista che farà penare il lettore all’infinito, ma di cui non posso dirvi altro. Tuttavia vi troverete a riflettere, per l’ennesima volta, sulle condizioni della donna e su quali stratagemmi era costretta ad adattarsi per avere il rispetto dovuto. È vero che adoriamo immergersi in queste finzioni, ma dietro c’è la storia che racconta di abusi con cui ancora, in maniera diversa, ci troviamo a fare i conti. Una riflessione che mi spinge ad amare ancor di più questo genere di romanzi. Maya Banks ha ricostruito una delle tante verità, con arguzia, sapienza e anche una certa freschezza, oltre a cotanta passione; rimarrete colpiti dall’immediata attrazione tra Justin e Jillian, apparendo quasi surreali… ma sapete, le anime affini si riconoscono al primo sguardo, l’importante è far capire loro che sarà un “per sempre”.
— Ma se non riuscite a immaginare di stare lontana da un uomo, se il pensiero di rimanere sena di lui vi causa un’angoscia incommensurabile… allora mia cara, siete innamorata.
Secondo me l’autrice, con semplicità, c’è riuscita a far arrivare questo romanzo nel cuore dei lettori.
Proprio per tutto ciò, vi consiglio “Mia amata duchessa” ricordandovi che è il primo volume (autoconclusivo) della serie “Vault Collection”. Sono certa che, come me, sarete curiosi di incontrare i prossimi protagonisti. Buona lettura!
May 20, 2019
Hmmmmm
I know this was brought out to help satisfy those of who have been anxiously awaiting something new from Maya. This story was ok. It did have the usual romance and suspense you come to expect from her. I hope we don’t have to wait too much longer for other stories from her.
I know this was brought out to help satisfy those of who have been anxiously awaiting something new from Maya. This story was ok. It did have the usual romance and suspense you come to expect from her. I hope we don’t have to wait too much longer for other stories from her.
May 12, 2021
A leitura deste livro foi a minha estreia com a autora Maya Banks.
Gostei muito do enredo que nos é apresentado, onde conhecemos a Jillian uma jovem viúva que se recusa a seguir os ditames da sociedade ao não mostrar tristeza e qualquer sinal de luto pela perda do marido.
Ficamos também a conhecer o Justin, um Duque que gosta de seguir as regras da sociedade e de manter perante ela um comportamento irrepreensível para que o seu bom nome e a sua reputação não possam de forma alguma ser manchados.
Como já se pode imaginar quando a Jillian e o Justin se conhecem os seus feitios vão chocar, mas essa antipatia que têm um pelo outro vai ser atenuada e esquecida por acontecimentos que os vão fazer aproximar-se um do outro.
Um livro que aborda o tema do abuso no casamento, um tem que infelizmente ainda se encontra atual nos dias de hoje.
Embora tenha gostado do enredo e de todo o desenvolvimento do livro, gostava que pelo menos duas personagens que nos foram apresentadas fossem mais exploradas para que pudéssemos saber mais acerca do Case e do Hawk, mas quem sabe elas estejam guardadas para futuros livros.
Na minha opinião tive uma boa estreia com esta autora e fiquei com curiosidade em ler mais livros dela.
Gostei muito do enredo que nos é apresentado, onde conhecemos a Jillian uma jovem viúva que se recusa a seguir os ditames da sociedade ao não mostrar tristeza e qualquer sinal de luto pela perda do marido.
Ficamos também a conhecer o Justin, um Duque que gosta de seguir as regras da sociedade e de manter perante ela um comportamento irrepreensível para que o seu bom nome e a sua reputação não possam de forma alguma ser manchados.
Como já se pode imaginar quando a Jillian e o Justin se conhecem os seus feitios vão chocar, mas essa antipatia que têm um pelo outro vai ser atenuada e esquecida por acontecimentos que os vão fazer aproximar-se um do outro.
Um livro que aborda o tema do abuso no casamento, um tem que infelizmente ainda se encontra atual nos dias de hoje.
Embora tenha gostado do enredo e de todo o desenvolvimento do livro, gostava que pelo menos duas personagens que nos foram apresentadas fossem mais exploradas para que pudéssemos saber mais acerca do Case e do Hawk, mas quem sabe elas estejam guardadas para futuros livros.
Na minha opinião tive uma boa estreia com esta autora e fiquei com curiosidade em ler mais livros dela.
May 31, 2019
Beautiful romance! I was pleasantly surprised that it wasn't as graphic as some of her other books. I once read the BREATHLESS series by her and had to go back to church and renew my wedding vows, those books were so down and dirty!! lol!!! Nevertheless, I loved the chemistry between Justin and Jillian. When she needed him to understand what her sleazy husband made her suffer through, he didn't reject her but pulled her into his heart, right where she needed to be. Loved this!!!
June 27, 2019
Maya Banks has her own style when she writes historicals and it works for her ...
Amazing book, great story and development, swoon worthy H, brave h, and the side characters, H's brother and cousin are great as well .... there is lovely humor as well and I love, love and love the way H gives up his status to be with the h ...
Amazing book, great story and development, swoon worthy H, brave h, and the side characters, H's brother and cousin are great as well .... there is lovely humor as well and I love, love and love the way H gives up his status to be with the h ...
April 14, 2023
It’s a wonderful story. Took a bit to get going but once it did, it was beautiful. This reminds me of Lady Beauchamp’s Proposal, but in this one Justin was willing, no he did give up on a lot! It was breathtaking. And Jillian, my God, lady I doff my hat to you. Maya Banks can bring a deft softness in hard hitting stories. Highly recommend.
December 11, 2022
3.5 rounded up to a 4
July 13, 2021
Que bom voltar a ler Maya Banks. Espero que os próximos sejam editados rapidamente 😊
4.5*
4.5*
November 29, 2020
**3.5 stars**
The first part of this book was very pedestrian, the second part was very exciting. I can say that something happened in this book that I've never seen in romance and it was very romantic and touching. And the conflict was indeed very difficult, one that required sacrifices of them both. I knew the solution of the problem but I don't know that I liked how it was solved.
Because this was a book by Maya Banks, I was expecting some steam but there wasn't much of it. The 'enemies' period was pretty much wasted - the purpose of this trope is to create sexual tension but it must have a payoff! I really liked Case, he was such a good brother and friend.
Tim Campbell is an excellent narrator. He's one of the few narrators that can portray really subtle undertones. When the author writes "he said silkily" you can really hear the smoothness in his voice!! And his badass voice is so badass that it gives you chills. I'm looking forward to listening more books by him.
Not sure if I'll continue the series as the books are really standalones. Not sure why there's a need to connect in them in a "series".
The first part of this book was very pedestrian, the second part was very exciting. I can say that something happened in this book that I've never seen in romance and it was very romantic and touching. And the conflict was indeed very difficult, one that required sacrifices of them both. I knew the solution of the problem but I don't know that I liked how it was solved.
Because this was a book by Maya Banks, I was expecting some steam but there wasn't much of it. The 'enemies' period was pretty much wasted - the purpose of this trope is to create sexual tension but it must have a payoff! I really liked Case, he was such a good brother and friend.
Tim Campbell is an excellent narrator. He's one of the few narrators that can portray really subtle undertones. When the author writes "he said silkily" you can really hear the smoothness in his voice!! And his badass voice is so badass that it gives you chills. I'm looking forward to listening more books by him.
Not sure if I'll continue the series as the books are really standalones. Not sure why there's a need to connect in them in a "series".
May 19, 2022
Note: While this is the first book in the series the books aren’t interconnected, stand alone, and can be read in any order.
I enjoyed this one. This is a bit of enemies to lovers theme as Justin and Jillian are originally at odds and quite a bit of verbal sparring goes on. I liked that Case was still her friend and didn’t choose either his brother or Jillian over the other.
The more Justin & Jillian spend time together the more they realize they’ve made assumptions. It’s a lovely transition to lovers for them. Unfortunately, Jillian isn’t as free from her dead husband as she thought and there’s a mysterious threat. Threatening letters and a shooting. Justin vows to protect her and there’s some really sweet moments for them when they’re in seclusion.
Since they aren’t getting their own books, I would have liked some resolution for Case and even Hawk. Overall a charming listen.
Narration:
I enjoyed Tim Campbell’s narration. He did a good job of giving all the characters unique voices and handled the emotions perfectly. Enjoyable listen.
Content Warnings (spoilers):
Mentions of past rapes and domestic violence, plus a more descriptive assault and attempted rape, and attempted murder against Jillian.
I enjoyed this one. This is a bit of enemies to lovers theme as Justin and Jillian are originally at odds and quite a bit of verbal sparring goes on. I liked that Case was still her friend and didn’t choose either his brother or Jillian over the other.
The more Justin & Jillian spend time together the more they realize they’ve made assumptions. It’s a lovely transition to lovers for them. Unfortunately, Jillian isn’t as free from her dead husband as she thought and there’s a mysterious threat. Threatening letters and a shooting. Justin vows to protect her and there’s some really sweet moments for them when they’re in seclusion.
Since they aren’t getting their own books, I would have liked some resolution for Case and even Hawk. Overall a charming listen.
Narration:
I enjoyed Tim Campbell’s narration. He did a good job of giving all the characters unique voices and handled the emotions perfectly. Enjoyable listen.
Content Warnings (spoilers):
Mentions of past rapes and domestic violence, plus a more descriptive assault and attempted rape, and attempted murder against Jillian.
June 27, 2021
This book was such a pleasant surprise! I picked it up at random but it turned out to be so charming and tropey in the best way—Regency era enemies-to-lovers with a dash of murder mystery. Would have a higher rating except that I liked the first half so much more than the second. The “will they or won’t they?” was very sweet, but it got a little syrupy by the time they actually got together.
May 22, 2019
Sweet
I love the author’s style of writing and the way she brings the story to life. Sweet book, and I enjoyed it.
I love the author’s style of writing and the way she brings the story to life. Sweet book, and I enjoyed it.
May 21, 2019
Good story.
Enemies to lovers theme.
Abusive background for heroine.
No intimate scenes with anyone other than the Hero and heroine.
Ex drama in sense heroine was married before, husband died, revealed in first chapter. There are references to his treatment of her.
Secondary characters drop breadcrumbs for possible future books in series.
HEA.
Enemies to lovers theme.
Abusive background for heroine.
No intimate scenes with anyone other than the Hero and heroine.
Ex drama in sense heroine was married before, husband died, revealed in first chapter. There are references to his treatment of her.
Secondary characters drop breadcrumbs for possible future books in series.
HEA.
May 25, 2019
Sweet romance
This was a really enjoyable story. I have always loved anything Maya Banks and this is no exception. I do have to say this is not the typical hot, steamy romance Maya usually writes. It’s a really sweet historical romance with wonderful characters to fall in love with.
This was a really enjoyable story. I have always loved anything Maya Banks and this is no exception. I do have to say this is not the typical hot, steamy romance Maya usually writes. It’s a really sweet historical romance with wonderful characters to fall in love with.
September 28, 2022
I seriously thought this was an early book by this author. Turns out, no. It was just so meh. So much telling. Cardboard characters.
April 15, 2021
3,5 - Per quanto desiderassi la prosecuzione delle serie sugli Highlander, ho comunque apprezzato l'inizio di questa nuova serie di Maya Banks, pur sempre storica (genere in cui - a mio modesto parere - lei è brava e rivela un altro stile rispetto a certi suoi contemporanei con deriva erotica).
Questo primo volume ci introduce ai fratelli Whittington (e, posso immaginare, al loro misterioso cugino).
Quando il maggiore, il duca, ritorna dall'estero trova il fratello al centro di uno scandalo nascente, in quanto si accompagna in pubblico con una neo-vedova, all'apparenza intrepida e sfrenata. Ma quando il nostro duca pensa bene di rimettere al suo posto la signora, si accorge che Jillian è ben diversa ed è una giovane donna che ha un forte bisogno di protezione, in una società che non offre alcun sostegno se si cade.
Nel complesso, l'ho gradito, anche se non resterà tra gli indimenticabili. Per quanto la trama sia molto semplice e lineare, la narrazione risulta scorrevole, i due fratelli sono simpatici, Jillian si destreggia come può.
Peccato che il cattivo sia ridotto a una macchietta sullo sfondo e non riesca mai a incutere troppo timore, inoltre la Banks tende ad aiutare i suoi personaggi con fughe dall'azione e interventi improvvisi e dall'esterno, che risolvono presto le situazioni di tensione, mentre magari il lettore (parlo per me!) le voleva un po' più combattute.
A momenti, Case è già più spigliato rispetto al duca buono e puro, e quindi spero che il volume a lui dedicato si riveli più vivace.
Questo primo volume ci introduce ai fratelli Whittington (e, posso immaginare, al loro misterioso cugino).
Quando il maggiore, il duca, ritorna dall'estero trova il fratello al centro di uno scandalo nascente, in quanto si accompagna in pubblico con una neo-vedova, all'apparenza intrepida e sfrenata. Ma quando il nostro duca pensa bene di rimettere al suo posto la signora, si accorge che Jillian è ben diversa ed è una giovane donna che ha un forte bisogno di protezione, in una società che non offre alcun sostegno se si cade.
Nel complesso, l'ho gradito, anche se non resterà tra gli indimenticabili. Per quanto la trama sia molto semplice e lineare, la narrazione risulta scorrevole, i due fratelli sono simpatici, Jillian si destreggia come può.
Peccato che il cattivo sia ridotto a una macchietta sullo sfondo e non riesca mai a incutere troppo timore, inoltre la Banks tende ad aiutare i suoi personaggi con fughe dall'azione e interventi improvvisi e dall'esterno, che risolvono presto le situazioni di tensione, mentre magari il lettore (parlo per me!) le voleva un po' più combattute.
A momenti, Case è già più spigliato rispetto al duca buono e puro, e quindi spero che il volume a lui dedicato si riveli più vivace.
December 1, 2024
I enjoyed the story, but it felt like it took forever to end. For whatever reason, this 220 page book took 8 hours on audio. I still can't do the math on that one.
Jillian is in an abusive marriage and she's ready to die just to escape it, but when her BFF Case arrives to let her know her douche husband's ship has sunk, she rejoices at her second chance. She's all living large, despite what society deems appropriate, but Case's brother shows up to ruin the fun. Duke Justin can't have his brother running around with a trollop, so he sets out to drive Jillian away and set things straight. Yada yada, someone's trying to kill Jillian, the Duke realizes he was wrong in all of his assumptions, more yada yada, HEA.
I do love Jillian. She doesn't take any shit from Justin. Sex - well obviously this fic isn't going to have much. The one time they do have sex is steamy (on audio). But that's all you're going to get.
I thought the ending was ridiculous - and that seemed to drag the book out for even longer. IDK - I'm partly convinced the 220-pages is a misprint.
AUDIO - def think it is better than reading - if you have the time to commit to it.
Jillian is in an abusive marriage and she's ready to die just to escape it, but when her BFF Case arrives to let her know her douche husband's ship has sunk, she rejoices at her second chance. She's all living large, despite what society deems appropriate, but Case's brother shows up to ruin the fun. Duke Justin can't have his brother running around with a trollop, so he sets out to drive Jillian away and set things straight. Yada yada, someone's trying to kill Jillian, the Duke realizes he was wrong in all of his assumptions, more yada yada, HEA.
I do love Jillian. She doesn't take any shit from Justin. Sex - well obviously this fic isn't going to have much. The one time they do have sex is steamy (on audio). But that's all you're going to get.
I thought the ending was ridiculous - and that seemed to drag the book out for even longer. IDK - I'm partly convinced the 220-pages is a misprint.
AUDIO - def think it is better than reading - if you have the time to commit to it.
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