What do you think?
Rate this book
Imperfect Duchesses #1
The Duke's Scarred Bride
“Why trap me in this marriage if you can’t even bear to look at me?”
Elsa bears the horrible scars on her face like a badge of honor. Or so she tells herself whenever people avert their gazes in disgust every time she steps into a room.
So when the most eligible gentleman of the Ton shows his clear interest in her, Elsa cannot believe her luck. Until the rakish Duke of Kersinton ruins her on purpose and traps her into a marriage of convenience against her will.
But Elsa will make him regret this. Even if he gets on his knees begging her for a kiss…
*If you like a realistic yet steamy depiction of the Regency and Victorian era, then The Duke's Scarred Bride is the novel for you.
An enchanting regency romance of 60,000 words (around 300 pages), written by Harriet Caves and published by Cobalt Fairy.
No cheating, no cliffhangers, and a strong happily ever after.
Get "The Duke's Scarred Bride" today to discover Harriet's splendid new story!
Elsa bears the horrible scars on her face like a badge of honor. Or so she tells herself whenever people avert their gazes in disgust every time she steps into a room.
So when the most eligible gentleman of the Ton shows his clear interest in her, Elsa cannot believe her luck. Until the rakish Duke of Kersinton ruins her on purpose and traps her into a marriage of convenience against her will.
But Elsa will make him regret this. Even if he gets on his knees begging her for a kiss…
*If you like a realistic yet steamy depiction of the Regency and Victorian era, then The Duke's Scarred Bride is the novel for you.
An enchanting regency romance of 60,000 words (around 300 pages), written by Harriet Caves and published by Cobalt Fairy.
No cheating, no cliffhangers, and a strong happily ever after.
Get "The Duke's Scarred Bride" today to discover Harriet's splendid new story!
293 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 21, 2022
219 people are currently reading
99 people want to read
About the author
Harriet Caves
71 books64 followersBorn in sunny California, all Harriet Caves ever wanted was to become a doctor and save lives. During her sleepless nights working at the hospital, the Regency classics were her only solace. To no one’s surprise, her British descent led her back to England to discover her roots and where her hidden passion lay: the Regency streets of London.
After obtaining a degree in Creative Writing there, Harriet decided to never leave this magnificent place. A daydreamer and an avid reader herself, she loves spending her days exploring the British countryside or seeking stories under the pebbles of the historical London alleys.
Though she abandoned the hospital wards, Harriet now mends hearts by transporting people back to an era of passionate love. Allow her skilled pen to take you to a special place where souls sing of love and dreams come to life!
After obtaining a degree in Creative Writing there, Harriet decided to never leave this magnificent place. A daydreamer and an avid reader herself, she loves spending her days exploring the British countryside or seeking stories under the pebbles of the historical London alleys.
Though she abandoned the hospital wards, Harriet now mends hearts by transporting people back to an era of passionate love. Allow her skilled pen to take you to a special place where souls sing of love and dreams come to life!
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
January 18, 2024
2.5 stars
Nothing much to say, it was ok, writing simplistic, the steam was surprisingly high in relation to the rest of the story.
Nothing much to say, it was ok, writing simplistic, the steam was surprisingly high in relation to the rest of the story.
January 8, 2023
unreadable
I made it to about 50% and the fmc was still a flighty, selfish see you next Tuesday who prides herself on believing the worst of decent people despite all evidence of humanitarian kindness and stubbornly insists on thinking the best of rhymes-with-grape-ists even when they behave abominably. The mmc is barely present. The author wants readers to believe the titular “imperfection” are physical scars from a childhood accident, but the grotesque personality is the true ugliness.
I made it to about 50% and the fmc was still a flighty, selfish see you next Tuesday who prides herself on believing the worst of decent people despite all evidence of humanitarian kindness and stubbornly insists on thinking the best of rhymes-with-grape-ists even when they behave abominably. The mmc is barely present. The author wants readers to believe the titular “imperfection” are physical scars from a childhood accident, but the grotesque personality is the true ugliness.
December 27, 2022
IS THE PAST REPEATING ITSELF - WILL HE BE BELIEVED
AARON - DUKE OF KIRSINTON
Had grown up with his best friend Nathan Viscount Rockhart, their families were very close.
That all changed when Aaron was found in a compromising situation with Nathan's betrothed LADY MARY who left shortly after nobody knew where she was.
Aaron needs to marry he has been away from society for a few years due to the scandal. Whilst walking in the garden at a party he hears , voices recognises one as being Lady Elsa (Nathan's young sister) the other being The Earl of Leighrow whom he despises. A situation arises where Aaron rushed forward and proposes to Lady Elsa determined she not be forced into a marriage with The Earl of Leighrow.
BRILLIANT CHARACTERS AND STORY - I WON'T GO ANY FURTHER BUT WE'LL WORTH THE READ SOME NASTY PEOPLE IN THIS - NATHAN IS NOT ONE OF THEM .
LOVED IT I RECEIVED AN ARC COPY.
AARON - DUKE OF KIRSINTON
Had grown up with his best friend Nathan Viscount Rockhart, their families were very close.
That all changed when Aaron was found in a compromising situation with Nathan's betrothed LADY MARY who left shortly after nobody knew where she was.
Aaron needs to marry he has been away from society for a few years due to the scandal. Whilst walking in the garden at a party he hears , voices recognises one as being Lady Elsa (Nathan's young sister) the other being The Earl of Leighrow whom he despises. A situation arises where Aaron rushed forward and proposes to Lady Elsa determined she not be forced into a marriage with The Earl of Leighrow.
BRILLIANT CHARACTERS AND STORY - I WON'T GO ANY FURTHER BUT WE'LL WORTH THE READ SOME NASTY PEOPLE IN THIS - NATHAN IS NOT ONE OF THEM .
LOVED IT I RECEIVED AN ARC COPY.
January 5, 2023
Great story!
Aaron was best friends with Nathan. He was at a party and Nathan and Mary were there. They loved each other so much. Lord L. had gotten May alone and forced himself on her, but Aaron intervened and scared him away. When Nathan stepped into the room, he thought Aaron was the one who ripped her dress. They both tried to tell him it wasn’t what it looked like. Nathan would not listen, so for years they were enemies. He saw a beautiful woman in the moonlight one night and knew she had scars, but she was beautiful. He was leaving and she wouldn’t get out of his way, so he bumped her and she fell. He landed on her. People came out and he kissed her to save her and told them they were getting married. So much happened after that, it is a need to read story!
Aaron was best friends with Nathan. He was at a party and Nathan and Mary were there. They loved each other so much. Lord L. had gotten May alone and forced himself on her, but Aaron intervened and scared him away. When Nathan stepped into the room, he thought Aaron was the one who ripped her dress. They both tried to tell him it wasn’t what it looked like. Nathan would not listen, so for years they were enemies. He saw a beautiful woman in the moonlight one night and knew she had scars, but she was beautiful. He was leaving and she wouldn’t get out of his way, so he bumped her and she fell. He landed on her. People came out and he kissed her to save her and told them they were getting married. So much happened after that, it is a need to read story!
January 25, 2023
wow!
There was a lot of drama to this story and I loved it. So many stories in one book where all share equal amount of time to be told to the fullest. Starting with the possible betrothal, the the scandal, to the love that come from that scandal, to the friendship formed (that was not a true friendship but something evil), to true love reclaimed and new lives beginning leading to a happily ever after with the characters involved. But most important as Elsa said she was a survivor and not someone to be pitted and the man who saw past the scars to the wonderful caring person behind the scars. Story written so beautifully. Wow, wow, wow!
There was a lot of drama to this story and I loved it. So many stories in one book where all share equal amount of time to be told to the fullest. Starting with the possible betrothal, the the scandal, to the love that come from that scandal, to the friendship formed (that was not a true friendship but something evil), to true love reclaimed and new lives beginning leading to a happily ever after with the characters involved. But most important as Elsa said she was a survivor and not someone to be pitted and the man who saw past the scars to the wonderful caring person behind the scars. Story written so beautifully. Wow, wow, wow!
February 1, 2023
Absolutely no plausible romance. I didn’t feel a shred of true emotion between the two besides anger, and honestly I was angry also. Everything felt simultaneously rushed and drawn out unbearably long.
American-isms throughout a regency book always throws me off a bit too. There were also inconsistencies with titles of characters and motivations related to these titles. People were social climbers back then, regardless of reputation a higher title would be seen as more desirable to a parent only wishing to rid themselves of a child and yet still be viewed respectfully and have their own family climb higher on the social ladder.
American-isms throughout a regency book always throws me off a bit too. There were also inconsistencies with titles of characters and motivations related to these titles. People were social climbers back then, regardless of reputation a higher title would be seen as more desirable to a parent only wishing to rid themselves of a child and yet still be viewed respectfully and have their own family climb higher on the social ladder.
December 28, 2022
This is a story with several stories going on at the same time with a variety of characters. Elsa and Aaron are the main characters and each have secrets that causes issues early in their relationship. Nathan, Elsa's brother, has the same secrets creating problems for him too. The drama these secrets cause are the basis of this story. There are a few "steamy" parts so beware. This story inlcudes not only secrets, but dysfunctional families, friendships, deceit, loyalty, a villain and of course, romance and love.
January 12, 2023
Harriet writes such amazing stories that are so believable. Lady Mary was betrothed to best friend Viscount Nathan, but when Mary was attacked at a masquerade Aaron scares off the culprit and helps Mary, but Nathan doesn't want to listen to what happened. Aaron takes care of Mary with money and emotional support. When he finds out that Nathan 's sister is to marry the culprit of Mary's attack he announced that they were to be married even though she has horrible scars on her face and neck. Aaron doesn't see the scars just how beautiful she is. Keeping secrets Aaron eventually gets Mary to let him tell Elsa. The evil culprit is so nice to Elsa even though Aaron tells her to stay away from the snake, she doesn't, until he tries to attack her. Finally Nathan and Elsa realize who is the real evil person. Do Nathan and Mary reconcile? Does Elsa realize that Aaron really loves her?
December 27, 2022
What is revenge when you can have love?
Elsa is forced by her mother to attend the season although she has no hope to attract a suitor due to her scars on her face as a result of an accident that took the life of her father.
Ethan, the Duke of Kersinton ruins her and marries her in revenge against her brother, who falsely accused him of ruining his betrothed.
But Elsa is determined to make him pay for his actions and to force him to acknowledge her existence.
Elsa is forced by her mother to attend the season although she has no hope to attract a suitor due to her scars on her face as a result of an accident that took the life of her father.
Ethan, the Duke of Kersinton ruins her and marries her in revenge against her brother, who falsely accused him of ruining his betrothed.
But Elsa is determined to make him pay for his actions and to force him to acknowledge her existence.
December 31, 2022
What a beautiful story, adventure, mystery and love
The story of the amazing Duchess of Kensington is definitely inspiring and heartfelt. The journey these interesting characters take you through the adventures of their lives is so realistic as to make you feel as well as being part of the journey. I so enjoyed and love this amazing story. Definitely a must read and highly recommend reading it for your own pleasure. Congratulations on your amazing writing skills.
The story of the amazing Duchess of Kensington is definitely inspiring and heartfelt. The journey these interesting characters take you through the adventures of their lives is so realistic as to make you feel as well as being part of the journey. I so enjoyed and love this amazing story. Definitely a must read and highly recommend reading it for your own pleasure. Congratulations on your amazing writing skills.
January 2, 2023
Her accidental affair
This is the story of Elba and Aaron, she was scared as a child, and Aaron was accused of an act he didn't commit. Elba was protecting her cousin when Aaron came along in the garden. Things quickly got out of hand, when they were caught in a compromising situation. A marriage performed, as secrets are revealed, two hearts come together, and a family and friendships are restored.
Thank you ❤️
This is the story of Elba and Aaron, she was scared as a child, and Aaron was accused of an act he didn't commit. Elba was protecting her cousin when Aaron came along in the garden. Things quickly got out of hand, when they were caught in a compromising situation. A marriage performed, as secrets are revealed, two hearts come together, and a family and friendships are restored.
Thank you ❤️
November 11, 2023
The Dukes Scarred Bride
What a wonderful story and the the storyline just kept on getting better with each chapter.Elsa and Aaron’s story was a delightful one to read with love coming into there union.But it had a few trails to endure first.Well written story and loved every minute reading it.The Extended Epilogue was a wonderful ending for all of these wonderful families and their friends.
What a wonderful story and the the storyline just kept on getting better with each chapter.Elsa and Aaron’s story was a delightful one to read with love coming into there union.But it had a few trails to endure first.Well written story and loved every minute reading it.The Extended Epilogue was a wonderful ending for all of these wonderful families and their friends.
June 19, 2025
At first, I didn't think I'd love it. Aaron was such a jerk. Plus the way Elsa's mother and brother treated her bothered me so much. She was constantly criticized for her scars, even though she couldn't control it. They should have been more loving and caring. In the end, it all worked out in the very best of ways. Aaron is a true gentleman and soft of heart. He won me, and of course Elsa, over. I love the way Nathan and Mary's story was entertwined and resolved itself in the end.
December 25, 2022
Nathan and Elsa
Wonderful read and characters. It has mystery ,intrigue and romance. So many lues surrounding nathan. Friendship being g broken from a mis-understanding. Elsa ring scarred from a carriage accident when she was young. She vets her HEA and her dreams come true. Would highly recommend this author and book. 😊
Wonderful read and characters. It has mystery ,intrigue and romance. So many lues surrounding nathan. Friendship being g broken from a mis-understanding. Elsa ring scarred from a carriage accident when she was young. She vets her HEA and her dreams come true. Would highly recommend this author and book. 😊
December 28, 2022
Very dramatic ending.
It is always sad when other judge a person only on looks and not who they are that is one of the underlying parts of this piece. But I want you to know there is so much more than that to this story. Some great twists and stories within stories just to kept the reader on their toes. It was a splendid book to spend time with.
It is always sad when other judge a person only on looks and not who they are that is one of the underlying parts of this piece. But I want you to know there is so much more than that to this story. Some great twists and stories within stories just to kept the reader on their toes. It was a splendid book to spend time with.
December 28, 2022
I know this probably makes me sound pedantic but I always get annoyed when an American author, writing historical fiction that's set in England (or other parts of the UK) uses the word 'cookies.'
Cookies is American English, here they have always been biscuits. Nobody in the regency period would call them cookies.
Cookies is American English, here they have always been biscuits. Nobody in the regency period would call them cookies.
December 29, 2022
The Duke's Scarred Bride
Elsa thought she would be a spinster due to an accident she had as a child that left her with a scarred face but one night at a ball she and Aaron were caught outside and they married Aaron is a duke and they eventually admitted love but there are truths that must be told This is a good read and a enjoyable one
Elsa thought she would be a spinster due to an accident she had as a child that left her with a scarred face but one night at a ball she and Aaron were caught outside and they married Aaron is a duke and they eventually admitted love but there are truths that must be told This is a good read and a enjoyable one
January 20, 2023
Loved it!
Good story of finding love of two people that never expected it. The story of Aaron and Elsa if full of twist and turns, secrets, hurtful behaviors and a villain who uses his nobel position to take advantage of women. Love & happiness is found by more than one couple. A very good read can't wait to read the next book in this series.
Good story of finding love of two people that never expected it. The story of Aaron and Elsa if full of twist and turns, secrets, hurtful behaviors and a villain who uses his nobel position to take advantage of women. Love & happiness is found by more than one couple. A very good read can't wait to read the next book in this series.
November 9, 2024
Wonderful Characters!
Harriet writes with great love for her characters. They are complicated yet have unexpected depths of kindness for others in their life.
The hero truly loves the heroine, including her scars not in spite of them.
A very touching and satisfying love story!
Harriet writes with great love for her characters. They are complicated yet have unexpected depths of kindness for others in their life.
The hero truly loves the heroine, including her scars not in spite of them.
A very touching and satisfying love story!
December 24, 2022
Wonderful!!!
Elsa, the heroine was a really strong woman despite her scar that she had in the carriage accident.
Aaron, the shy hero of the novel. Both they are hard head but a wonderful couple.
Love it!!!!
Elsa, the heroine was a really strong woman despite her scar that she had in the carriage accident.
Aaron, the shy hero of the novel. Both they are hard head but a wonderful couple.
Love it!!!!
December 26, 2022
The Duke's Scarred Bride
Elsa and Aaron
An good easy to read story, well written, with wonderful characters and attention to detail. A romance full of unexpected turns and twist or two with a happily ever after.
Elsa and Aaron
An good easy to read story, well written, with wonderful characters and attention to detail. A romance full of unexpected turns and twist or two with a happily ever after.
December 27, 2022
Charming story
I found this story to be utterly charming. It points out some of the difficulties that people go through due to no fault of their own. And if they can persevere they can overcome.
I found this story to be utterly charming. It points out some of the difficulties that people go through due to no fault of their own. And if they can persevere they can overcome.
December 30, 2022
Solid love story
Typically, hero has secrets and doesn't acknowledge his passion. Pre-story doesn't get revealed until 7/8's of story is told. Strong sense that hero and heroine value the humans who surround them. Women are shown as complex and competent.
Typically, hero has secrets and doesn't acknowledge his passion. Pre-story doesn't get revealed until 7/8's of story is told. Strong sense that hero and heroine value the humans who surround them. Women are shown as complex and competent.
December 31, 2022
Though I really enjoyed reading this book I found myself figuring out the culprit in the first chapter. Well written as are all of Harriet Caves books. I truly look forward to reading them all. My next book is the beast finds his blind duchess. Can’t wait to read it.
January 4, 2023
Elsa and the Duke
Well written characterizations in the book. Main characters are thoroughly made apparent. The feeling of love is throughout the body of the book. Elsa and Aaron have to resolve some issues before they can be together.
Well written characterizations in the book. Main characters are thoroughly made apparent. The feeling of love is throughout the body of the book. Elsa and Aaron have to resolve some issues before they can be together.
January 7, 2023
Love is beyond skin deep.
A lovely story of misunderstanding, fear and unconditional love. The characters are easily related to and the situations here are with us today. The story works it all out and of course there's a HEA!
A lovely story of misunderstanding, fear and unconditional love. The characters are easily related to and the situations here are with us today. The story works it all out and of course there's a HEA!
January 14, 2023
This is a delightful story about relationships. Aaron and Elsa have a rocky start to their marriage due to secrets that are kept. When the deepest secret comes out, the relationships in the book are renewed and regenerated. An enjoyable tale of love winning out in the end!
June 4, 2023
A rake and a wallflower…but not really
I came across this book while looking for a “rake meets wallflower” trope. And while there is “elements” of that, there’s so much more. I really enjoyed the pace of this book as well as the story itself and within that; the characters.
I came across this book while looking for a “rake meets wallflower” trope. And while there is “elements” of that, there’s so much more. I really enjoyed the pace of this book as well as the story itself and within that; the characters.
November 14, 2023
It's her cousins fault she's married
It might start off a bit different but the middle and ending are just fine. There was a bit more proof reading needed to be done to catch a few miss placed words but nothing serious. Enjoyable storyline.
It might start off a bit different but the middle and ending are just fine. There was a bit more proof reading needed to be done to catch a few miss placed words but nothing serious. Enjoyable storyline.
November 15, 2023
Enjoyable
I have thoroughly enjoyed this book
The characters were well written and developed. There were several different relationships developing at the same time, which only made the book more interesting.
I have thoroughly enjoyed this book
The characters were well written and developed. There were several different relationships developing at the same time, which only made the book more interesting.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews