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Dangerous Deceptions #1
Loving the Lost Duke
A duke confronting his demons. A beauty resisting love. Almost seven years ago the young Duke of Calderbrook left England for the self-imposed exile that seemed the only way to save his life. Now Cal is back, a grown man bent on taking back his birthright and discovering who so nearly killed him – even if they prove to be someone he loves. The truth, revenge, then a suitable marriage are Cal’s aims, but his determined quest is stopped in its tracks by Society beauty Sophie Wilmott. He wants Sophie and Sophie, armoured against love by her own secrets, wants Cal. He needs to keep her safe, she needs to guard her heart – but death is waiting at the heart of the Duke’s great house and only courage and love are going to give them the strength to overcome it.
269 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2017
About the author
Louise Allen
413 books335 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name. See this thread for more information.
This author also writes under the name Francesca Shaw.
I have had my nose buried in a history book - fact or fiction - for as long as I can remember, but even more important to me are the places and the objects that conjure up the past. My first attempt at historical fiction at the age of eight was three pages of improbable medieval drama set in the local castle.
With a degree in geography and archaeology I love to try and 'read' the landscape and the buildings in it for clues about the past. Virtually any place can trigger ideas for plots, but I am particularly inspired by Venice, Burgundy, Mediterranean islands and the Hertfordshire and Norfolk countryside.
I live in England in a village in Bedfordshire with my long-suffering husband. He is not sure whether to be flattered or alarmed to be told he is the inspiration for all my romantic heroes! Whenever possible we escape to our cottage on the North Norfolk coast where Percy, the bossy pheasant, allows us to share the garden.
My resolution every time I start on a new plot is to plan it carefully, make copious notes first and write lots of drafts in a disciplined and orderly manner. What inevitably happens is that the story starts to write itself in my head until it gets completely out of control - meanwhile my study floor becomes a sea of open books, prints and maps and I am found sitting in the car at traffic lights, muttering dialogue. At that point I have to start writing, knowing full well that the hero and heroine are going to take over and sabotage all my attempts at discipline. It is, after all, their story.
This author also writes under the name Francesca Shaw.
I have had my nose buried in a history book - fact or fiction - for as long as I can remember, but even more important to me are the places and the objects that conjure up the past. My first attempt at historical fiction at the age of eight was three pages of improbable medieval drama set in the local castle.
With a degree in geography and archaeology I love to try and 'read' the landscape and the buildings in it for clues about the past. Virtually any place can trigger ideas for plots, but I am particularly inspired by Venice, Burgundy, Mediterranean islands and the Hertfordshire and Norfolk countryside.
I live in England in a village in Bedfordshire with my long-suffering husband. He is not sure whether to be flattered or alarmed to be told he is the inspiration for all my romantic heroes! Whenever possible we escape to our cottage on the North Norfolk coast where Percy, the bossy pheasant, allows us to share the garden.
My resolution every time I start on a new plot is to plan it carefully, make copious notes first and write lots of drafts in a disciplined and orderly manner. What inevitably happens is that the story starts to write itself in my head until it gets completely out of control - meanwhile my study floor becomes a sea of open books, prints and maps and I am found sitting in the car at traffic lights, muttering dialogue. At that point I have to start writing, knowing full well that the hero and heroine are going to take over and sabotage all my attempts at discipline. It is, after all, their story.
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
August 29, 2024
4,5- Ho scoperto Louise Allen di recente, con mio grande rammarico, e sto leggendo tante belle letture, una dietro l'altra. Anche con questo libro, primo di serie e uscito come autopubblicazione, si conferma per me un'abile tessitrice di historical romance.
D'accordo, si parte con il pezzo da novanta (un duca, e per di più distante da Londra da sette anni, perciò ancora più ambito) e sappiamo che con un "Sua Grazia" come personaggio principale si vince sempre, però troviamo anche una sottotrama di intrighi e indagini, dato che il nobile Cal non ha viaggiato per il mondo solo per puro piacere, bensì temendo per la propria vita.
Ora è tornato, deciso più che mai a smascherare i nemici, vedovo e con una (sveglia) figlioletta a carico.
Gli resta anche l'obiettivo di procurarsi un erede (come sappiamo, una bambina non assicura la protezione del titolo) e la sua scelta - quando si dice il destino - non cade su una ingenua debuttante speranzosa, magari assistita da una madre avveduta: al contrario, Sophie ha maturato una certa esperienza in fatto di Stagioni e corteggiamenti e ha stilato addirittura una lista di requisiti del marito ideale, l'unico che accetterà.
Insomma, entrambi appaiono molto pragmatici, aperti a un matrimonio di convenienza, e poco inclini ai sentimentalismi; ma qui sta l'inghippo, visto che persino un approccio simile può naufragare di fronte all’evidenza che entrambi i fidanzati si sono innamorati.
Quasi 400 pagine che scorrono piacevolmente, sorrette anche da una valida traduzione, tra battibecchi, sguardi infuocati, e un duca circondato da formidabili amici.
Lo dico: intendo proseguire, ma necessito di un romanzo dedicato esclusivamente al maestro di scherma, Hunt. Sarò accontentata?
D'accordo, si parte con il pezzo da novanta (un duca, e per di più distante da Londra da sette anni, perciò ancora più ambito) e sappiamo che con un "Sua Grazia" come personaggio principale si vince sempre, però troviamo anche una sottotrama di intrighi e indagini, dato che il nobile Cal non ha viaggiato per il mondo solo per puro piacere, bensì temendo per la propria vita.
Ora è tornato, deciso più che mai a smascherare i nemici, vedovo e con una (sveglia) figlioletta a carico.
Gli resta anche l'obiettivo di procurarsi un erede (come sappiamo, una bambina non assicura la protezione del titolo) e la sua scelta - quando si dice il destino - non cade su una ingenua debuttante speranzosa, magari assistita da una madre avveduta: al contrario, Sophie ha maturato una certa esperienza in fatto di Stagioni e corteggiamenti e ha stilato addirittura una lista di requisiti del marito ideale, l'unico che accetterà.
Insomma, entrambi appaiono molto pragmatici, aperti a un matrimonio di convenienza, e poco inclini ai sentimentalismi; ma qui sta l'inghippo, visto che persino un approccio simile può naufragare di fronte all’evidenza che entrambi i fidanzati si sono innamorati.
Quasi 400 pagine che scorrono piacevolmente, sorrette anche da una valida traduzione, tra battibecchi, sguardi infuocati, e un duca circondato da formidabili amici.
Lo dico: intendo proseguire, ma necessito di un romanzo dedicato esclusivamente al maestro di scherma, Hunt. Sarò accontentata?
August 5, 2018
I was so surprised how much I loved this Victorian mystery, and romance. The mystery was very good , but I did figure it out, but that in no way ruined it for me.
Sophie is a young woman wronged, by someone she thought she loved. She never told her parents, and has carried the guilt of that night. She wants to marry, but knows that titled gentleman will prefer a virgin. The man who took her by force has left England, so there is no one to chase down. Cal is a Duke in hiding around the world, for his own safety. He had grown up sickly, and accident prone, at his home , under his uncle, and brothers care. When he would be away though, he would recover. Now he is coming home, and looking to marry. He sets his sights on Sophie. The book flew by, and it kept my interest. I really liked Sophie and Cal. They were funny, brave, spirited, loyal while finding love, and trust. I also loved the way Sophie treated Isobel. Cal gets the brunt of injuries, in the book.. She stays by his side, and is not a fainting, brainless maiden. Cal throws a house party inviting friends, and those who will be in the wedding, to visit his estate. That is where all the loose ends , for both of them come together. It was a heartwarming story, and had a wonderful ending. 5 stars...
Sophie is a young woman wronged, by someone she thought she loved. She never told her parents, and has carried the guilt of that night. She wants to marry, but knows that titled gentleman will prefer a virgin. The man who took her by force has left England, so there is no one to chase down. Cal is a Duke in hiding around the world, for his own safety. He had grown up sickly, and accident prone, at his home , under his uncle, and brothers care. When he would be away though, he would recover. Now he is coming home, and looking to marry. He sets his sights on Sophie. The book flew by, and it kept my interest. I really liked Sophie and Cal. They were funny, brave, spirited, loyal while finding love, and trust. I also loved the way Sophie treated Isobel. Cal gets the brunt of injuries, in the book.. She stays by his side, and is not a fainting, brainless maiden. Cal throws a house party inviting friends, and those who will be in the wedding, to visit his estate. That is where all the loose ends , for both of them come together. It was a heartwarming story, and had a wonderful ending. 5 stars...
June 13, 2017
My Musings
Wow,I have been so lucky lately. I have read quite a few books lately and all of them have been 5 🌟 ratings! This book grabbed me from the first page and kept me engaged to the last. I scored Sophie and her lost duke, and Isobel stole my ❤. This is an excellent example of a Recency romance. I highly recommend this great book. Happy ☺reading 📚!
Wow,I have been so lucky lately. I have read quite a few books lately and all of them have been 5 🌟 ratings! This book grabbed me from the first page and kept me engaged to the last. I scored Sophie and her lost duke, and Isobel stole my ❤. This is an excellent example of a Recency romance. I highly recommend this great book. Happy ☺reading 📚!
May 20, 2017
This would certainly be an awesome book... If it weren't for the Duke's kid.. .
I don't like that she barely receives any attention. You know, this novel comes with modern tropes, like homosexuality and yet the Duke never really talks to his girl, he never plays with her, takes her riding... It's just a shame and I don't know why the girl is even in this book..
Other than that, I liked it.
Writing Style?
Pretty awesome. Especially for a a historical romance. Sure, at times the speech wasn't that historically accurate but I found it well done overall. ;-)
Plot?
With some drama. The ending was definitely not what I was expecting...
What I found seriously lacking? There is an obvious emphasis on class. The whole point of view is that of the nobility. Yet, we also got a glimpse at the working class. Their portrayal, however, was clearly negative. And I was disappointed in the MCs because they clearly had no intention to help them in some way.
Characters?
Other than what was mentioned above, I liked them. Btw, our MCs took some interest in the Kid but for me, it just wasnt nearly enough. She was never really involved...
Still, decent read.
I don't like that she barely receives any attention. You know, this novel comes with modern tropes, like homosexuality and yet the Duke never really talks to his girl, he never plays with her, takes her riding... It's just a shame and I don't know why the girl is even in this book..
Other than that, I liked it.
Writing Style?
Pretty awesome. Especially for a a historical romance. Sure, at times the speech wasn't that historically accurate but I found it well done overall. ;-)
Plot?
With some drama. The ending was definitely not what I was expecting...
What I found seriously lacking? There is an obvious emphasis on class. The whole point of view is that of the nobility. Yet, we also got a glimpse at the working class. Their portrayal, however, was clearly negative. And I was disappointed in the MCs because they clearly had no intention to help them in some way.
Characters?
Other than what was mentioned above, I liked them. Btw, our MCs took some interest in the Kid but for me, it just wasnt nearly enough. She was never really involved...
Still, decent read.
March 22, 2026
Nice intro to new series by a good writer. Good mystery mixed with sweet love story.
January 23, 2017
As reviewed at Roses Are Blue: http://wp.me/p3QRh4-tN
Sophie Wilmott is in her seventh season, and is attending yet another ball. She’s in a private location, discussing marriage with her dear friend, Toby. After a disastrous run-in with love in her debut year, Sophie has decided to approach marriage with a list of requirements her potential spouse must meet. Love is not on the list. When Toby leaves to find his dance partner, Sophie discovers that another man is nearby, and heard their whole conversation. Amazingly enough, this man is the mysterious Duke of Calderbrook, who left England almost seven years ago, and whose whereabouts have been a mystery.
Calderbrook (“Cal”) was orphaned and raised by his uncle. While a child, Cal suffered many bouts of a painful illness which left him weak and deathly ill. He also was a victim of numerous accidents, some of which caused broken bones, others which narrowly missed taking his life. After another attack of the mysterious malady, Cal overhears the doctor talking to someone who feels he may be being poisoned. Cal loves his uncle and cousin, and the thought that one of them may want him dead breaks his heart. Yet, they are the heirs who would benefit from his death. Cal knows that he is now too weak to fight, so he devises a plan to flee and wait. As soon as he turns twenty-one and gains full control of his dukedom, he arranges for his properties to be managed by a trusted friend, and takes off for parts unknown. He is careful to correspond with his family regularly, so that he can’t be declared dead. As soon as he left the estate, he began to regain his health. Travelling around the world has made him strong and determined. Now he’s back, ready to reclaim his life, find a wife, sire an heir, and find out exactly who the would-be murderer is.
Cal’s experiences in life and while travelling have left him wanting no part of love. So when he hears Sophie’s requirements, rather than being appalled, he applauds her methodology. She is beautiful and intelligent and entertaining, so perhaps she is the ideal candidate to be his duchess. He begins to call on Sophie, and their physical attraction soon leads Cal to court her in earnest. When he is about to propose, Sophie know that she has to confess the incident that happened during her first season. Cal is disappointed in her lack of innocence, but he admires her honesty, which he greatly values, and decides he still wants to marry her. The wedding plans begin, and Cal decides to hold a houseparty, inviting his relatives. His plan is to flush out the murderer, and put an end to the game. Unfortunately, the mistake from Sophie’s past also shows up at the party, intent on ruining her happiness.
LOVING THE LOST DUKE is one of the rare books where I adore the heroine as much as the hero. Both characters are extremely admirable and likable. Cal is honest, brave, determined, fair, and has a wonderful sense of humor. He’s also caring and generous, yet wary. Sophie is forthright and honest, and my admiration for her is off the charts for having the courage to confess her past to Cal. This couple has so much to overcome and they are determined that love won’t enter the picture, but of course, it does. I read this book in one sitting because it had an exciting mystery, wonderful protagonists, a warm and steamy romance, and a satisfying and surprising resolution. LOVING THE LOST DUKE is a wonderful read that I’m happy to give my highest recommendation.
Sophie Wilmott is in her seventh season, and is attending yet another ball. She’s in a private location, discussing marriage with her dear friend, Toby. After a disastrous run-in with love in her debut year, Sophie has decided to approach marriage with a list of requirements her potential spouse must meet. Love is not on the list. When Toby leaves to find his dance partner, Sophie discovers that another man is nearby, and heard their whole conversation. Amazingly enough, this man is the mysterious Duke of Calderbrook, who left England almost seven years ago, and whose whereabouts have been a mystery.
Calderbrook (“Cal”) was orphaned and raised by his uncle. While a child, Cal suffered many bouts of a painful illness which left him weak and deathly ill. He also was a victim of numerous accidents, some of which caused broken bones, others which narrowly missed taking his life. After another attack of the mysterious malady, Cal overhears the doctor talking to someone who feels he may be being poisoned. Cal loves his uncle and cousin, and the thought that one of them may want him dead breaks his heart. Yet, they are the heirs who would benefit from his death. Cal knows that he is now too weak to fight, so he devises a plan to flee and wait. As soon as he turns twenty-one and gains full control of his dukedom, he arranges for his properties to be managed by a trusted friend, and takes off for parts unknown. He is careful to correspond with his family regularly, so that he can’t be declared dead. As soon as he left the estate, he began to regain his health. Travelling around the world has made him strong and determined. Now he’s back, ready to reclaim his life, find a wife, sire an heir, and find out exactly who the would-be murderer is.
Cal’s experiences in life and while travelling have left him wanting no part of love. So when he hears Sophie’s requirements, rather than being appalled, he applauds her methodology. She is beautiful and intelligent and entertaining, so perhaps she is the ideal candidate to be his duchess. He begins to call on Sophie, and their physical attraction soon leads Cal to court her in earnest. When he is about to propose, Sophie know that she has to confess the incident that happened during her first season. Cal is disappointed in her lack of innocence, but he admires her honesty, which he greatly values, and decides he still wants to marry her. The wedding plans begin, and Cal decides to hold a houseparty, inviting his relatives. His plan is to flush out the murderer, and put an end to the game. Unfortunately, the mistake from Sophie’s past also shows up at the party, intent on ruining her happiness.
LOVING THE LOST DUKE is one of the rare books where I adore the heroine as much as the hero. Both characters are extremely admirable and likable. Cal is honest, brave, determined, fair, and has a wonderful sense of humor. He’s also caring and generous, yet wary. Sophie is forthright and honest, and my admiration for her is off the charts for having the courage to confess her past to Cal. This couple has so much to overcome and they are determined that love won’t enter the picture, but of course, it does. I read this book in one sitting because it had an exciting mystery, wonderful protagonists, a warm and steamy romance, and a satisfying and surprising resolution. LOVING THE LOST DUKE is a wonderful read that I’m happy to give my highest recommendation.
February 26, 2017
Multi award-winning author Louise Allen continues to cement her standing as one of the most gifted and talented writers of historical romance with Loving the Lost Duke, the first mesmerizing title in her new Dangerous Deceptions series.
Miss Sophia Wilmott’s view of romance and courtship is nowhere near as idealistic and hopeful as that of other girls her age. Indeed, Sophia’s view is jaded, cynical and informed by a sorrowful episode in her past which she cannot seem to be able to put behind her. While Sophia is well aware that she is expected to marry and make a suitable match with an eligible and distinguished gentleman of the Ton, she is adamant that her choice will not be driven by idyllic fantasies of romantic bliss, but by sound reasoning and sensible judgement. However, Sophia hadn’t counted on the legendary – and dashing! – Lord of Calderbrook, reappearing in society after years living away from England. Cal has attracted the attention of every single young woman and matchmaking mama in London, however, he seems to have eyes for only one woman: Sophia…
It’s been years since Cal last set foot in England, but when circumstances compelled him to return back on English soil, he had found himself with no other option but to give into his misgivings and go back home. But his return back to England is fraught with apprehension and uneasiness. As a child, Cal had been prone to falling ill with alarming regularity, however, when he’d left his home behind, the medical afflictions that had plagued him and almost cost him his life on many an occasion had mysteriously disappeared. Cal is convinced more than ever that someone who is very close to him is desperately trying to kill him and to keep him away from what is rightfully his and he is determined to catch this dangerous enemy and vanquish him from his life once and for all. The one thing Cal cannot afford is to get distracted from his quest – so why can’t he stop thinking about Miss Sophia Wilmott and her guinea gold hair?
Cal knows that he is in danger up to his neck and he certainly does not need to entangle anyone else in his web of peril and jeopardy, but he finds himself unable to resist Sophia. As sizzling attraction gives way to something deeper, Cal and Sophia soon give into desire and succumb to temptation, but with their enemies circling closer and closer, does their love stand any chance of surviving? Or will their fledgling relationship be terminated prematurely by treacherous foes who wish them nothing but harm?
Louise Allen is a true virtuoso of the genre and she is on top form with her spellbinding new novel, Loving the Lost Duke. Expertly blending passion, intrigue, adventure, suspense and humour, Loving the Lost Duke is a thrilling and engrossing Regency romance with an intelligent heroine readers will love and a handsome hero who gives Mr Darcy a run for his money in the swoon-worthy stakes!
A riveting, evocative and wonderfully romantic read that will touch readers’ hearts and keep them on the edge of their seats, Loving the Lost Duke is an outstanding Regency read from Louise Allen’s superb pen!
Miss Sophia Wilmott’s view of romance and courtship is nowhere near as idealistic and hopeful as that of other girls her age. Indeed, Sophia’s view is jaded, cynical and informed by a sorrowful episode in her past which she cannot seem to be able to put behind her. While Sophia is well aware that she is expected to marry and make a suitable match with an eligible and distinguished gentleman of the Ton, she is adamant that her choice will not be driven by idyllic fantasies of romantic bliss, but by sound reasoning and sensible judgement. However, Sophia hadn’t counted on the legendary – and dashing! – Lord of Calderbrook, reappearing in society after years living away from England. Cal has attracted the attention of every single young woman and matchmaking mama in London, however, he seems to have eyes for only one woman: Sophia…
It’s been years since Cal last set foot in England, but when circumstances compelled him to return back on English soil, he had found himself with no other option but to give into his misgivings and go back home. But his return back to England is fraught with apprehension and uneasiness. As a child, Cal had been prone to falling ill with alarming regularity, however, when he’d left his home behind, the medical afflictions that had plagued him and almost cost him his life on many an occasion had mysteriously disappeared. Cal is convinced more than ever that someone who is very close to him is desperately trying to kill him and to keep him away from what is rightfully his and he is determined to catch this dangerous enemy and vanquish him from his life once and for all. The one thing Cal cannot afford is to get distracted from his quest – so why can’t he stop thinking about Miss Sophia Wilmott and her guinea gold hair?
Cal knows that he is in danger up to his neck and he certainly does not need to entangle anyone else in his web of peril and jeopardy, but he finds himself unable to resist Sophia. As sizzling attraction gives way to something deeper, Cal and Sophia soon give into desire and succumb to temptation, but with their enemies circling closer and closer, does their love stand any chance of surviving? Or will their fledgling relationship be terminated prematurely by treacherous foes who wish them nothing but harm?
Louise Allen is a true virtuoso of the genre and she is on top form with her spellbinding new novel, Loving the Lost Duke. Expertly blending passion, intrigue, adventure, suspense and humour, Loving the Lost Duke is a thrilling and engrossing Regency romance with an intelligent heroine readers will love and a handsome hero who gives Mr Darcy a run for his money in the swoon-worthy stakes!
A riveting, evocative and wonderfully romantic read that will touch readers’ hearts and keep them on the edge of their seats, Loving the Lost Duke is an outstanding Regency read from Louise Allen’s superb pen!
September 26, 2024
Great romance and mystery story
This was a really enjoyable love story with a mystery twist. It was enriched by a cast of fascinating characters; most memorable being the strong friendships the Duke has with a fencing master who becomes his body guard, his valet, and his uncle and cousin, heirs presumptive to his estate. The heroine, Sophie, is strong and well drawn, and a great match for Cal, the Duke. An unusual mystery that leaves you wondering who is behind various attempts on the Duke’s life, makes for an exciting build-up.
This was a really enjoyable love story with a mystery twist. It was enriched by a cast of fascinating characters; most memorable being the strong friendships the Duke has with a fencing master who becomes his body guard, his valet, and his uncle and cousin, heirs presumptive to his estate. The heroine, Sophie, is strong and well drawn, and a great match for Cal, the Duke. An unusual mystery that leaves you wondering who is behind various attempts on the Duke’s life, makes for an exciting build-up.
November 28, 2019
Deceptive
Cal disappeared for almost 7 years convinced his relatives wanted to kill him! Returning to London he is immediately attracted to Sophie the very woman his cousin has his sights on! This sounds like my relatives want to kill me for the title and my fortune but this story is anything but!! Sophie sounds like the beautiful debutante who caught the eye of a Duke! She is not, she has trouble in her past! If they can trust each other they just might get to a HEA!
Cal disappeared for almost 7 years convinced his relatives wanted to kill him! Returning to London he is immediately attracted to Sophie the very woman his cousin has his sights on! This sounds like my relatives want to kill me for the title and my fortune but this story is anything but!! Sophie sounds like the beautiful debutante who caught the eye of a Duke! She is not, she has trouble in her past! If they can trust each other they just might get to a HEA!
June 17, 2017
Five stars!!
I loved this story, it had all the things that make a great story. A heroine that has her secrets, a hero that has his share too. Then, the hero and heroine save each other. A mystery to solve. Engaging interaction between characters, that are also engaging characters. Lastly, love scenes that are sensual and steamy. Looking forward to reading the next book.
I loved this story, it had all the things that make a great story. A heroine that has her secrets, a hero that has his share too. Then, the hero and heroine save each other. A mystery to solve. Engaging interaction between characters, that are also engaging characters. Lastly, love scenes that are sensual and steamy. Looking forward to reading the next book.
July 22, 2018
Surprisingly entertaining. I had not read a Louise Allen book for a while and had forgotten how well-written her books could be. Strong characters, lots of action with a fast paced plot made a god read. Here's hoping the other book in the series is as good.
July 2, 2020
Not sure what to say about this book. Lust at first sight, than lots of talk of lust, and finally too much steaminess. The mystery and characters got lost in it. Will not continue with the series or this author.
January 28, 2017
Review to follow on
All About Romance
closer to publication date.
July 4, 2025
2.5 ⭐️
January 16, 2021
This book feels like an excellent example of how much of a difference good editing can make. I generally enjoy Allen's regency romances published with Harlequin - they are never earthshaking, but generally pleasant - but this one had some problems. There were too many things which made me blink, like a duke thinking that he will need to "get a shotgun" to deal with his daughter's suitors when she grows up, which went beyond the usual wallpaper historical innaccuracies (which were here too, don't get me wrong). The book mentions concepts which generally don't show up in category historicals - the hero's valet is gay; the heroine is not a virgin and we learn that it was because she was essentially date-raped by a guy she thought she was eloping with (spoilered for trigger warning: ). However, the biggest problem for me was a throwaway line with one of the villains: as the hero and friends are getting ready to force him onto a ship, they cheerfully inform him that he's going to spend the voyage . I'm not comfortable with this kind of use of sexual assault as revenge and there was really no reason to include it; I find that in some ways I'm less accepting of this kind of throwaway line than I am of books which commit to what they're doing even if it's a bad idea, because at least you know what you're getting with those books. The whole book was kind of messy in general and kind of stuck between mystery and romance novel, not great at either, so I'm not going to be continuing the series.
August 31, 2019
This is probably the best of the trilogy and interestingly the story was developed from what is now the prologue but what was a short story.
The young Duke of Calderbrook fled England publicly for a tour abroad but privately because he believed that someone was trying to kill him.
Sophie too has secrets. From a possibly unusually loving family she shies away from marriage unless it ticks all her boxes because she cannot accept anything less.
Throw in close friends and even closer enemies this is a fun read while we find out what really happened to Cal and who is responsible.
The young Duke of Calderbrook fled England publicly for a tour abroad but privately because he believed that someone was trying to kill him.
Sophie too has secrets. From a possibly unusually loving family she shies away from marriage unless it ticks all her boxes because she cannot accept anything less.
Throw in close friends and even closer enemies this is a fun read while we find out what really happened to Cal and who is responsible.
January 20, 2017
Another excellent story from Louise Allen. The period detail is accurately researched, as you'd expect from this author. The heroine was not the usual stereotype, but intelligent and believable, as was the hero. The plotting was good with a twist that came together very well at the end, not predictable. Looking forward to the next in this series.
January 13, 2017
Thoroughly enjoyed this new book by Louise Allen. Humour, historical accuracy, an intelligent heroine and a hero determined to solve an old mystery. Looking forward to the rest of the series.
October 10, 2021
I really liked the plot. It needed a little bit more magic and some things were a bit too convenient, but a decent regency. Anachronistic. 3.5 rounded up.
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews