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The Unusual Story of the Silent Duchess
by
New beginnings hurt, but sometimes they are worth every teardrop...
Strange things come with the storm, things that can change one's life forever. On just such a dark night, a mysterious voiceless girl arrives at the doorstep of the powerful Duke of Rutland, Neil Arnold. Thanks to her, his gloomy soul will see its first sunny days after a very long time.
Her silence, ...more
Strange things come with the storm, things that can change one's life forever. On just such a dark night, a mysterious voiceless girl arrives at the doorstep of the powerful Duke of Rutland, Neil Arnold. Thanks to her, his gloomy soul will see its first sunny days after a very long time.
Her silence, ...more
Kindle Edition, 495 pages
Published
November 24th 2018
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I received an ARC of this book so I hope that most of the errors I encountered have been fixed by the time of its release. There are quite a few seedy characters in this book, not only villains, but also just rotten people who are almost incidental to the story. In Chapter 20, I learned something I had never heard before. Apparently, in the cheap boarding houses, “Those who arrived after all the beds had been claimed were forced to spend the night standing up, fastened between two tight pieces o
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Not a Regency Novel
Linfield needs to learn what is and is not a Regency novel--which this definitely is not. Some writers seem to believe that all historical fiction taking place England before the 20th century are Regency novels. I suggest looking up the Regency, which in fact covers only a part of the 18th century and no part of the 19th.
Linfield needs to learn what is and is not a Regency novel--which this definitely is not. Some writers seem to believe that all historical fiction taking place England before the 20th century are Regency novels. I suggest looking up the Regency, which in fact covers only a part of the 18th century and no part of the 19th.
An interesting premise, but a bit of a let-down with gaps in logic and some heavy handed deus ex machina. There are many other stories I'd recommend for a Regency Romance experience.
Where I see this story has potential is in Historical Fiction, not the romance genre. The compelling competition between the wool merchants, as well as the plot line with the elderly grandmother were both interesting and touching. More interesting than the romance, which felt a little lazy and more like an aside tha ...more
Where I see this story has potential is in Historical Fiction, not the romance genre. The compelling competition between the wool merchants, as well as the plot line with the elderly grandmother were both interesting and touching. More interesting than the romance, which felt a little lazy and more like an aside tha ...more
I'm sorry but I found this book boring.
...more
It starts with her running thru the rain after just escaping a carriage. She falls to the ground and is unconscious(Mary-Ann). The Duke of Rutland, Neil Arnold, has the care of his five-year-old daughter and his mother, Phyllis Arnold, she forgets things. He could hear yelling at the front of his estate and went to look into it and he was informed that they had found a woman passed out at the front of the estate. They take her upstairs and let her warm up and sleep. It really starts to get compl
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SETTING: Escaping from a carriage in the midst of a storm, being chased by a man with a lantern, Mary-Anne runs herself into exhaustion. Found by the drunken carriage driver, she is taken to the manor, and collapses on the ground, not to awaken for 2 days. Unable to speak after the trauma, she finds herself a house servant, which she gladly accepts for the safety it gives her. After all, what had she to lose by leaving her past life behind?
Of course, her pursuer does not give up. The evilness t ...more
Of course, her pursuer does not give up. The evilness t ...more
Go Silently🙊 Into That Good 🌙Night
Traumatized by her own attempted murder in the middle of a violent thunderstorm, Mary-Anne💃💋, leaps from a moving carriage and runs through the woods and eventually finds herself at the country estate of Neil🐺🍆🌋🔪🔫, The Duke of Rutland. She is so scared she loses her voice.🙊
With reservations, the hermit Duke🐺🍆🌋🔪🔫 takes her in. When He sees how good she is with his slightly demented grandmother👵, and also his five year old daughter👩, he relents and makes her part ...more
Traumatized by her own attempted murder in the middle of a violent thunderstorm, Mary-Anne💃💋, leaps from a moving carriage and runs through the woods and eventually finds herself at the country estate of Neil🐺🍆🌋🔪🔫, The Duke of Rutland. She is so scared she loses her voice.🙊
With reservations, the hermit Duke🐺🍆🌋🔪🔫 takes her in. When He sees how good she is with his slightly demented grandmother👵, and also his five year old daughter👩, he relents and makes her part ...more
History is not solely made by dukes and the like. And neither is this story. It isn't just about the duke and the woman who steals his heart. There are many more colourful characters in different occupations and stages of life. And that makes it such a great book!
I would only change the title into something like: The Unusual Story of the Mysterious Servant Girl. Since she only becomes a duchess in the epilogue...
I received a copy and chose to review it. ...more
I would only change the title into something like: The Unusual Story of the Mysterious Servant Girl. Since she only becomes a duchess in the epilogue...
I received a copy and chose to review it. ...more
Just finished the story. Love the story line. A heart broken Duke over the deaths of his parents and wife 5 years ago trying to raise his daughter. All of asunden a mystery woman who appears to be mute is found lying in the rain on the Dukes (Neil’s) property. MARY-Anne was running from her abductor and was found by the Dukes man! Upon recovering in his home she realizes she has lost her voice and his too scared to write down her identity. A great read with intrigue, danger, a villain, love and
...more
Jan 12, 2020
Stavroulam
added it
insurance fraud but make it sexy
(nope)
(nope)
This is a suspenseful, action and adventure story. From the very beginning, the author invites you into a world of danger and a crossing of social status romance. The excitement only builds from that point on. I love the fact we have a strong heroine, Mary-Anne/Emily in this story and a brooding sad hero, Neil Arnold, the Duke of Rutland. He had a five-year-old precocious daughter, Kaitlin, who was constantly running away from her governess and music instructor. The Duke's grandmother, Phyllis,
...more
A well written story with nice storyline and plot. Likeable characters who are well described and develops nicely through the story. The author has made this romance true to the time period. I like when the author has made her research.
This story is very emotional and strong written. I was caught from the first chapter. The writing style and use of words made it a very passionate and heartwarm story. A instant attraction romance with a nice pace and some issues before the couple have their HEA. ...more
This story is very emotional and strong written. I was caught from the first chapter. The writing style and use of words made it a very passionate and heartwarm story. A instant attraction romance with a nice pace and some issues before the couple have their HEA. ...more
ONE INCREDIBLY THRILLING READ!!!
Oh man, talk about your friends close and enemies closer. This is one action packed, hard hitting, heart pounding, pulse racing, smooth flowing, page turning bombshell that's as riveting as it is captivating. A whirlwind of emotions and events that bring all the drama, fear, lies, danger and suspense along with tension. All the twists and turns, ups and downs, along with a few unexpected circumstances and unpredictable surprises around every corner make for thrill ...more
Oh man, talk about your friends close and enemies closer. This is one action packed, hard hitting, heart pounding, pulse racing, smooth flowing, page turning bombshell that's as riveting as it is captivating. A whirlwind of emotions and events that bring all the drama, fear, lies, danger and suspense along with tension. All the twists and turns, ups and downs, along with a few unexpected circumstances and unpredictable surprises around every corner make for thrill ...more
Mary-Anne is chased through a severe storm where she collapses at Duke of Rutland, Neil Arnold's doorstep. When she wakes up she cannot speak. Neil's grandmother, Phyllis starts calling her Emily and appoints her to be her companion and to take care of her. Neil's young daughter takes an instant liking to Mary-Anne. After a while Neil finds himself drawn to her.
Who is this mysterious woman who showed up at Neil's doorstep during a storm?
This is a great book, and I really enjoyed it. I was given ...more
Who is this mysterious woman who showed up at Neil's doorstep during a storm?
This is a great book, and I really enjoyed it. I was given ...more
Mute terror..
Mary-Anne escapes from being abducted to find that when she finds safety, her voice is gone.
The Duke of Rutland provides shelter while she recuperates and then allows her to help with his grandmother and his daughter.
Mr. Bastrade.
Mary-Anne escapes from being abducted to find that when she finds safety, her voice is gone.
The Duke of Rutland provides shelter while she recuperates and then allows her to help with his grandmother and his daughter.
Mr. Bastrade.
The Unusual Story of the Silent Duchess is a touching read. Healing of a bitter heart, striking conflict, and complex characters make for a delightful read for any romance enthusiast. Emma is a master Weaver.
Sewsummore
5.0 out of 5 stars A complex story of love and greed.
November 26, 2018
This was a complex story encompassing greed, sorrow and forbidden love. Mary-Ann is found wet and bedraggled after escaping the clutches of a villain determined to marry her for her inheritance. When she awakens she finds herself in the home a reclusive Duke who allows her to remain as a companion to his aged grandmother. I really like the twists in this story and their growing affection for one and other. I receive ...more
5.0 out of 5 stars A complex story of love and greed.
November 26, 2018
This was a complex story encompassing greed, sorrow and forbidden love. Mary-Ann is found wet and bedraggled after escaping the clutches of a villain determined to marry her for her inheritance. When she awakens she finds herself in the home a reclusive Duke who allows her to remain as a companion to his aged grandmother. I really like the twists in this story and their growing affection for one and other. I receive ...more
I recieved an ARC copy of this book . This is my review .
There were so many characters that the twists and turns with each page I read , had me wondering where these nasty buggers fit into the story .
They all end up playing a part in the final picture which all is revealed and you have the " ahhh-haa" as to where they fit in.
It did take me longer to read this one as it wasnt one of my favored reads by Emma this time , but all in all its still a good story. ...more
There were so many characters that the twists and turns with each page I read , had me wondering where these nasty buggers fit into the story .
They all end up playing a part in the final picture which all is revealed and you have the " ahhh-haa" as to where they fit in.
It did take me longer to read this one as it wasnt one of my favored reads by Emma this time , but all in all its still a good story. ...more
Lovely, heartwarming story with some exciting twists and turns. Mary-Anne and Neil have both suffered loss in their past. Can the attraction they feel, heal their souls, or will it cause more problems? The descriptions of the lives of these people was very informative and added to my enjoyment of the book. This story is well worth reading.
I received an ARC copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I received an ARC copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Flimsy at best.
Well I have to say that was a very tedious read. At times it was difficult to discern who was the main character. Too many main characters and not enough support staff.
The rivalry between merchants was poorly explained and very long winded.
Poor Randolph deserved a better end whilst Oliver was over indulged.
Neil could have been developed better and Emily\ Mary-Anne was hardly in the story frame to credit her with title credits. The best character was great grandma. But even she was ...more
Well I have to say that was a very tedious read. At times it was difficult to discern who was the main character. Too many main characters and not enough support staff.
The rivalry between merchants was poorly explained and very long winded.
Poor Randolph deserved a better end whilst Oliver was over indulged.
Neil could have been developed better and Emily\ Mary-Anne was hardly in the story frame to credit her with title credits. The best character was great grandma. But even she was ...more
It was so-so
Where to start? The story is told in third person. Our heroine doesn't speak due to a traumatic experience so the staff at the Dukes manor call her Emily. When the staff is talking to or about her she is Emily, but in the narration she is always MaryAnne. Gets a bit confusing till you get used to it.
The writing wasn't exactly bad, but it wasn't good either. No issues with grammar, punctuation or spelling (that can ruin a good story). But the writing was long-winded ... pages of ramb ...more
Where to start? The story is told in third person. Our heroine doesn't speak due to a traumatic experience so the staff at the Dukes manor call her Emily. When the staff is talking to or about her she is Emily, but in the narration she is always MaryAnne. Gets a bit confusing till you get used to it.
The writing wasn't exactly bad, but it wasn't good either. No issues with grammar, punctuation or spelling (that can ruin a good story). But the writing was long-winded ... pages of ramb ...more
Difficult story.
It took me some time to complete this book, due to being dark and depressive I felt. There were twists and turns in the story but it was a sad story. My heart went out to young Randolph, aide to Mr
Beatable, who treated him appalling, and the boys sad demise. I couldn't like the Duke (Neil) either as whilst one might sympathise with his having lost his parents and wife the fact that his Valet pandered to his depression, and the Dukes weeping and wailing was beyond me, also why di ...more
It took me some time to complete this book, due to being dark and depressive I felt. There were twists and turns in the story but it was a sad story. My heart went out to young Randolph, aide to Mr
Beatable, who treated him appalling, and the boys sad demise. I couldn't like the Duke (Neil) either as whilst one might sympathise with his having lost his parents and wife the fact that his Valet pandered to his depression, and the Dukes weeping and wailing was beyond me, also why di ...more
This is definitely an engaging Historical Romance that will keep you turning the pages. What I found highly unusual was that after the happy ending--you are invited to click over and read an extra short epilogue which will tell you what happens after the story ends. I love this idea!!!!
A girl is abducted and manages to escape on a rainy and stormy night--she is so frightened that she becomes mute. She makes her way somehow to to Duke of Rutland's home and is taken in. She ultimately becomes part ...more
A girl is abducted and manages to escape on a rainy and stormy night--she is so frightened that she becomes mute. She makes her way somehow to to Duke of Rutland's home and is taken in. She ultimately becomes part ...more
Quite an unusual story
Quite an unusual writing style. Kinda had to read parts of the dialogues in a Scottish accent, can't explain why, though. Guess cause the dialogues were quite authentic for an earlier time?
Anyways, there are a lot of POVs in this book and I must admit that it's quite hard to follow the storyline as it shifts from one place to another. A bit distracting, to be honest... Plus, the characters' actions are sometimes a bit too abrupt and we don't really get an explanation for w ...more
Quite an unusual writing style. Kinda had to read parts of the dialogues in a Scottish accent, can't explain why, though. Guess cause the dialogues were quite authentic for an earlier time?
Anyways, there are a lot of POVs in this book and I must admit that it's quite hard to follow the storyline as it shifts from one place to another. A bit distracting, to be honest... Plus, the characters' actions are sometimes a bit too abrupt and we don't really get an explanation for w ...more
Mary-Anne Barnes is a beautiful and resourceful young woman who is stalked by a madman. Neil Arnold, Duke of Rutland is a man nearly broken from grief.
Come meet a wonderful mix of enchanting people. From precocious Lady Kaitlin, to the dowerger Duchess Phyllis, the ever efficient and loyal Thomas , Mr. Marton , Ruth and Betsey. Of course there are those who are not acceptable but wish to appear to be, you won't like them, but you're not supposed to. This is a story that will have you shaking yo ...more
Come meet a wonderful mix of enchanting people. From precocious Lady Kaitlin, to the dowerger Duchess Phyllis, the ever efficient and loyal Thomas , Mr. Marton , Ruth and Betsey. Of course there are those who are not acceptable but wish to appear to be, you won't like them, but you're not supposed to. This is a story that will have you shaking yo ...more
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I have a question...
Regency Romance used to mean something. When a book came with the Regency Romance name on the cover, you knew you were getting a well written story, in which words, thoughts, ideas, and situations reflected the Regency period.
My question is this? Has Regency Romance changed, having no meaning any longer, so that any writer, such as the case here, can call anything a Regency Romance, while making no effort to make it sound believable at all? Such a disappointment.
Regency Romance used to mean something. When a book came with the Regency Romance name on the cover, you knew you were getting a well written story, in which words, thoughts, ideas, and situations reflected the Regency period.
My question is this? Has Regency Romance changed, having no meaning any longer, so that any writer, such as the case here, can call anything a Regency Romance, while making no effort to make it sound believable at all? Such a disappointment.
Awesome book
I was very pleased with this book. The plot was incredible. To lose your voice after such a frightening experience is something else. Mary-Anne was kept safe by not being able to talk. But, then the evil Mr. Balastor was able to find her and try to kidnap her again.
However, the Duke saw through the rise and fought for his true love. He chased down the coach that had taken her away and was able to rescue her just in time to keep her from falling to her death like his first wife did.
T ...more
I was very pleased with this book. The plot was incredible. To lose your voice after such a frightening experience is something else. Mary-Anne was kept safe by not being able to talk. But, then the evil Mr. Balastor was able to find her and try to kidnap her again.
However, the Duke saw through the rise and fought for his true love. He chased down the coach that had taken her away and was able to rescue her just in time to keep her from falling to her death like his first wife did.
T ...more
A Duke trying to be there for his daughter and mother after losing his wife. Also trying to run his property and be there for his tenants. It was a miracle that the lady was able to escape to safety and meet the Duke of her dreams . It's hard to communicate ones true feelings when they can't speak. Sadness,loss, of microbes and business adventures.to rise above it all. I give it a 5++++ I was given a chance to read this book for a honest review.
...more
Mary-Anne was found by Neil, Duke of Rutland men and brought to his manor where his grandmother Phyllis bundled her up to a bedroom where she slept for a couple of days and when she woke up she could not speak. She staied and help take care of Phyllis, who has a mental condition. To find out why she was out in a horrrible rainstorm, couldn’t talk and every thing about Mary-Anne known as Emily U must read the book.
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Emma Linfield has always been passionate about historical romances. Ever fascinated with the world of Regency England and being utmost inspired by Jane Austen and Georgette Heyer’s work, she decided she wanted to write her own stories. Stories of love and tradition being mixed in the most appealing way for every hopeless romantic, much like herself.
Born and raised in Southern California, Emma Linf ...more
Born and raised in Southern California, Emma Linf ...more
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