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The Duchess Gambit
Behind the mask of ice that people wear, there beats a heart on fire...
Rudolph Yardley, valet to the Duke of Upton, hides a dangerous secret.
His real name is Sue and he's not by any means a man. After her family's tragic death from a fire, Sure had but one choice in order to survive: disguise herself as a man and take her later brother's place in the Duke's employ.
Vernon Wade, Duke of Upton, feels lost after his father's passing. Already struggling with his newfound responsibilities, his carefully constructed mask of composure crumbles when he comes across a shocking sight: his very own valet is in fact, a beautiful young woman.
Lost in their budding feelings for each other, Sue and Vernon fail to see the viper in their midst. When a fire breaks out, a face emerges through the flames. A face that has been haunting her nightmares all her life.
*If you like powerful Dukes, loving Duchesses and a marvelous depiction of the majestic Regency and Victorian era, then The Duchess Gambit is the novel for you.
This is Patricia Haverton's 18th novel, a historical Regency romance novel of 60,000 words (around 300 pages). No cheating, no cliffhangers, and a sweet happily ever after.
Rudolph Yardley, valet to the Duke of Upton, hides a dangerous secret.
His real name is Sue and he's not by any means a man. After her family's tragic death from a fire, Sure had but one choice in order to survive: disguise herself as a man and take her later brother's place in the Duke's employ.
Vernon Wade, Duke of Upton, feels lost after his father's passing. Already struggling with his newfound responsibilities, his carefully constructed mask of composure crumbles when he comes across a shocking sight: his very own valet is in fact, a beautiful young woman.
Lost in their budding feelings for each other, Sue and Vernon fail to see the viper in their midst. When a fire breaks out, a face emerges through the flames. A face that has been haunting her nightmares all her life.
*If you like powerful Dukes, loving Duchesses and a marvelous depiction of the majestic Regency and Victorian era, then The Duchess Gambit is the novel for you.
This is Patricia Haverton's 18th novel, a historical Regency romance novel of 60,000 words (around 300 pages). No cheating, no cliffhangers, and a sweet happily ever after.
- GenresHistorical Romance
378 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 24, 2021
113 people are currently reading
36 people want to read
About the author
Patricia Haverton
92 books56 followersBorn the oldest of three children, Patricia Haverton grew up believing that she'd follow in her father's footsteps and pursue a career in science. However, her worldview changed when she decided to explore her British mother's roots. The trip to her ancestral lands solidified her conviction that she had found her true calling in the romanticism of the Era of Kings and Queens.
A hopeless romantic and a firm believer in the idea of soulmates, Patricia changed the course of her life and decided to get her degree in Creative Writing and Psychology. As she jokingly says ever so often, "she lives in the past now, where love shows the way and Dukes save the day!"
When she's not weaving tales of love that prevails, Patricia enjoys spending time with her husband, roaming the British countryside, where they have been living in for the past decade.
Now would be the time to let yourself go and experience the true magic of the Regency Era! Let your imagination run wild, live amazing adventures through the eyes of brave heroes! Like the legendary wise wizard, Patricia will be your guide!
A hopeless romantic and a firm believer in the idea of soulmates, Patricia changed the course of her life and decided to get her degree in Creative Writing and Psychology. As she jokingly says ever so often, "she lives in the past now, where love shows the way and Dukes save the day!"
When she's not weaving tales of love that prevails, Patricia enjoys spending time with her husband, roaming the British countryside, where they have been living in for the past decade.
Now would be the time to let yourself go and experience the true magic of the Regency Era! Let your imagination run wild, live amazing adventures through the eyes of brave heroes! Like the legendary wise wizard, Patricia will be your guide!
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
March 21, 2021
Sorry, I didn't like the writing and I didn't like the historical details. Paragraphs are double spaced - I assume to get more $$ for KU reading.
January 30, 2021
First off I have to note that in the blurb for this book, it states Rudolph Yardley's name is Sue, yet throughout the entire book the Duke's valet is Samuel/Sue. Also the only fire occurs in the prologue as part of the past not in the present. It was a bit confusing as I began reading, as I was expecting something quite different having read the blurb. For that I blame editing and not the actual story.
It's been five years since Sue fled into the night. Escaping the fire that took the lives of her parents and twin brother. In a move of despair, she gathered clothing from her father's business and disguised herself as her brother, Samuel. He was to become valet to Vernon, son of the Duke of Upton and she would fill that position. She had no other choice if she is to survive. Her nightmare is the first thing we learn about, and that is where we learn she saw the face of the man who started the blaze she survived.
The book continues with the sudden death of the Duke of Upton and his son Vernon about to attend the funeral. His first public appearance at the Duke. As expected, he is not really in the mood to attend, knowing he would have to make an effort to entertain the people who come to pay their respects. It's his valet and friend Samuel who helps him prepare for the day, giving him the encouragement to acknowledge he is the new Duke and is more than ready to take on the responsibilities of that task.
While many of his father's business partners were known to Vernon, some were not. He did find some interesting conversation with one of those men. It appears Wilson Yorke, the Earl of Eallesborough, knew his father prior to his marriage to Vernon's mother. He also found consolation in the presence of his cousin who informs him of his recent engagement to help brighten his mood.
We get our first glimpse of Anabelle Yorke at the funeral. The Earl's daughter is more than a little eager to be noticed by the Duke. Even though she acknowledges it would be improper for any romantic overtures at the funeral. The confrontation she has with Samuel shows her true attitude and it's not a nice one.
It's while looking for his valet at the reception at his home following the funeral, that Vernon learns the truth about Samuel. He's stunned to hear the conversation only knowing for sure the one voice was that of Samuel. This causes him to withdraw from his guests to think about what he's learned. It also leads to some concern from the staff as he throws things in his chambers, leading to the confrontation with Samuel.
Although their dynamic changes, they do manage through the visit with The Earl of Eallesborough and his daughter. Samuel in spite of knowing he won't be able to be the Duke's valet when he marries, encourages him to court Anabelle. Although Vernon sees things he most definitely doesn't approve of in her mannerisms.
So much happens in this book, even before the Duke needs to travel to his cousin's wedding. More revelations, secrets although not Samuel's. A memory that still haunts and an ending worthy of a Duchess.
It's been five years since Sue fled into the night. Escaping the fire that took the lives of her parents and twin brother. In a move of despair, she gathered clothing from her father's business and disguised herself as her brother, Samuel. He was to become valet to Vernon, son of the Duke of Upton and she would fill that position. She had no other choice if she is to survive. Her nightmare is the first thing we learn about, and that is where we learn she saw the face of the man who started the blaze she survived.
The book continues with the sudden death of the Duke of Upton and his son Vernon about to attend the funeral. His first public appearance at the Duke. As expected, he is not really in the mood to attend, knowing he would have to make an effort to entertain the people who come to pay their respects. It's his valet and friend Samuel who helps him prepare for the day, giving him the encouragement to acknowledge he is the new Duke and is more than ready to take on the responsibilities of that task.
While many of his father's business partners were known to Vernon, some were not. He did find some interesting conversation with one of those men. It appears Wilson Yorke, the Earl of Eallesborough, knew his father prior to his marriage to Vernon's mother. He also found consolation in the presence of his cousin who informs him of his recent engagement to help brighten his mood.
We get our first glimpse of Anabelle Yorke at the funeral. The Earl's daughter is more than a little eager to be noticed by the Duke. Even though she acknowledges it would be improper for any romantic overtures at the funeral. The confrontation she has with Samuel shows her true attitude and it's not a nice one.
It's while looking for his valet at the reception at his home following the funeral, that Vernon learns the truth about Samuel. He's stunned to hear the conversation only knowing for sure the one voice was that of Samuel. This causes him to withdraw from his guests to think about what he's learned. It also leads to some concern from the staff as he throws things in his chambers, leading to the confrontation with Samuel.
Although their dynamic changes, they do manage through the visit with The Earl of Eallesborough and his daughter. Samuel in spite of knowing he won't be able to be the Duke's valet when he marries, encourages him to court Anabelle. Although Vernon sees things he most definitely doesn't approve of in her mannerisms.
So much happens in this book, even before the Duke needs to travel to his cousin's wedding. More revelations, secrets although not Samuel's. A memory that still haunts and an ending worthy of a Duchess.
January 27, 2021
⚖️⚖️ONE MIND-BLOWING JOURNEY⚖️⚖️
Blazing bloomers boo! Patricia just cranked my tractor and floating my boat, tossing out a line and reeling me in with this incredibly sensational tilt-her-world, divvying out some dangerous facts, brutal lessons and ruthless decisions, launching this bad boy to new heights. Satisfaction is an understatement, this hot little jewel comes packing a punch that will bring you to your knees, breaking out the big guns, ammo aplenty and heavy artillery, locked and loaded, tapping out the riveting drama, gripping intrigue, underlying threats, mounting danger and electrifying suspense converge, exposing sinister schemes, heinous deeds and vicious tactics, baring the formidable struggles and intimidating triumphs, attentive to the deadly twists and perilous turns unfolding, wrapping this jewel up sleek, shiny and tight. Attributes and ingenuity in each thread you unravel with every page, your lured into this silken web so intricately and precise, spotlighting the explosive ups and agonizing downs, breathtaking in it's simplicity and beautiful in it's depth, jetting this baby to life brilliantly. The characters, banter, dialogue, interactions and charged atmosphere along with relatable qualities and individual traits that add depth and diversity, transforming into lovable personalities. The scenes are so vividly descriptive with vibrant details and colorful graphics so rich and lively, it feels as though you're transported back to ground zero, becoming a part of the story instead of on the sidelines, feeling everything our characters feel. Remarkable job Patricia, thanks for sharing this incredible jewel with us.
Blazing bloomers boo! Patricia just cranked my tractor and floating my boat, tossing out a line and reeling me in with this incredibly sensational tilt-her-world, divvying out some dangerous facts, brutal lessons and ruthless decisions, launching this bad boy to new heights. Satisfaction is an understatement, this hot little jewel comes packing a punch that will bring you to your knees, breaking out the big guns, ammo aplenty and heavy artillery, locked and loaded, tapping out the riveting drama, gripping intrigue, underlying threats, mounting danger and electrifying suspense converge, exposing sinister schemes, heinous deeds and vicious tactics, baring the formidable struggles and intimidating triumphs, attentive to the deadly twists and perilous turns unfolding, wrapping this jewel up sleek, shiny and tight. Attributes and ingenuity in each thread you unravel with every page, your lured into this silken web so intricately and precise, spotlighting the explosive ups and agonizing downs, breathtaking in it's simplicity and beautiful in it's depth, jetting this baby to life brilliantly. The characters, banter, dialogue, interactions and charged atmosphere along with relatable qualities and individual traits that add depth and diversity, transforming into lovable personalities. The scenes are so vividly descriptive with vibrant details and colorful graphics so rich and lively, it feels as though you're transported back to ground zero, becoming a part of the story instead of on the sidelines, feeling everything our characters feel. Remarkable job Patricia, thanks for sharing this incredible jewel with us.
June 10, 2024
A chance at love.
A beautifully written story with a few twist and turns. At 14 Sue saw her family die in a fire and looked at the man responsible. She fled and took the toll as her deceased twin brother Samuel not only to hide but start a new life as a valet to the heir to a Dukedom.
It’s been 5 years since Samuel became his valet and know he’s dressing me for my fathers funeral as I, Vernon am the new Duke. Sue realizes she’s been lucky that no one saw her as a female but the butler has always been suspicious. As she helps Vernon dress for his father’s funeral she realizes they have become good friends and he confides everything to her.
After the funeral many guests came back to the house and he meets an Earl who tells him an extraordinary story about his father which he never knew. He invites the Earl and his daughter back in a few weeks because he wants to know his father’s relationship with the Earl.
When Vernon over hears who he thought was Samuel and the maid Flossie speaking one night, he finally learns her secret and is angry, hurt and so much more. But when he confronts Samuel/Sue she tries to explain why she did it. Can the Duke ever forgive her.
A wonderful love story that defies the ton.
A beautifully written story with a few twist and turns. At 14 Sue saw her family die in a fire and looked at the man responsible. She fled and took the toll as her deceased twin brother Samuel not only to hide but start a new life as a valet to the heir to a Dukedom.
It’s been 5 years since Samuel became his valet and know he’s dressing me for my fathers funeral as I, Vernon am the new Duke. Sue realizes she’s been lucky that no one saw her as a female but the butler has always been suspicious. As she helps Vernon dress for his father’s funeral she realizes they have become good friends and he confides everything to her.
After the funeral many guests came back to the house and he meets an Earl who tells him an extraordinary story about his father which he never knew. He invites the Earl and his daughter back in a few weeks because he wants to know his father’s relationship with the Earl.
When Vernon over hears who he thought was Samuel and the maid Flossie speaking one night, he finally learns her secret and is angry, hurt and so much more. But when he confronts Samuel/Sue she tries to explain why she did it. Can the Duke ever forgive her.
A wonderful love story that defies the ton.
January 27, 2021
Susan Yardley is the only one to get out of their burning house. Once outside she spots a man and their eyes meet. She doesn't know him. Why is he on their property? She feels she must go into hiding. Her twin brother was about to start a job as valet to the Duke of Upton Manor. So she becomes Samuel and goes to start work for the Duke. Sue was 14 at the time. Things go well for five years. Then one day when Sue/Samual was having a conversation with her friend Flossie, a maid, they were overheard by the Duke himself. Her secret was out. What was going to happen now? This story becomes a page-turner. We have intrigue, villains, lies, murder, romance, twists, and turns that will keep you turning pages until the end. Get a copy of this book and come along on this roller coaster ride. Well constructed plot and very well written. You don't want to miss this story.
I voluntarily received an advanced reader copy of this book and I'm voluntarily posting a review.
My opinion is entirely my own.
I voluntarily received an advanced reader copy of this book and I'm voluntarily posting a review.
My opinion is entirely my own.
February 1, 2021
Samuel Yardley has been the valet to Vernon Wade, Duke of Upton, for five years. And, amazingly, no one has discovered that Samuel is really Sue Yardley. When Sue was 14, her entire family was killed in a house fire that was no accident. Sue assumes her twin brother's identity and takes his place as a valet to the son of the Duke of Upton.
The relationship between Sue and Vernon is very special, even when Vernon believes she is a young man. The close friendship does have one detractors, Mr. Barlow, the extremely uppity butler. He is really is a real piece of work. Back to Sue and Vernon, I really enjoyed reading their story. And the friendship between Sue and Flossie, a maid, is fun to read about. Flossie is the only person Sue has revealed her secret to.
Ms. Haverton is an excellent writer and I believe this has to be my favorite book of her's. So, naturally, I recommend it. I received an advance copy of this book from the author and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The relationship between Sue and Vernon is very special, even when Vernon believes she is a young man. The close friendship does have one detractors, Mr. Barlow, the extremely uppity butler. He is really is a real piece of work. Back to Sue and Vernon, I really enjoyed reading their story. And the friendship between Sue and Flossie, a maid, is fun to read about. Flossie is the only person Sue has revealed her secret to.
Ms. Haverton is an excellent writer and I believe this has to be my favorite book of her's. So, naturally, I recommend it. I received an advance copy of this book from the author and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 30, 2021
Who is Sam really?
Such a sad beginning to this piece but I admired Sue for what she did. Vernon was also an outstanding character even when he found out the truth he did not turn his back on his friend. Even if this is a love story it has action and danger. This book took hold right from the beginning it also was so well-written that I was a bit sad when it ended. This is a book I am happy to recommend. I did receive a free copy of this book and I voluntarily chose to review it.
Such a sad beginning to this piece but I admired Sue for what she did. Vernon was also an outstanding character even when he found out the truth he did not turn his back on his friend. Even if this is a love story it has action and danger. This book took hold right from the beginning it also was so well-written that I was a bit sad when it ended. This is a book I am happy to recommend. I did receive a free copy of this book and I voluntarily chose to review it.
February 18, 2021
Patricia wrote another good storyline. Vernon and Sue lived in the dukedom under unusual circumstances. Being forced to hide under the disguise of being her brother after she lost her family to fire, she has been Vernon's valet. What happens next makes for a good story. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone interested in a good read. I received this ARC in exchange for a voluntary honest review which I have freely written here
September 25, 2022
Best book of Patricia's I've read.
This book only gave you a bite or two here and there, leaving you wanting to know more. The villain wasn’t handed to you on a silver platter. It was tastefully presented in morsels you could swallow and digest. Even when you knew who the villain was, you didn't know why. This made the book more exciting and inviting. Great story plot, characters and development .
This book only gave you a bite or two here and there, leaving you wanting to know more. The villain wasn’t handed to you on a silver platter. It was tastefully presented in morsels you could swallow and digest. Even when you knew who the villain was, you didn't know why. This made the book more exciting and inviting. Great story plot, characters and development .
January 29, 2021
"The Duchess Gambit" by Patricia Haverton
A clean language, sweet romance, historical mystery you will need to hang in to the very end to find out if good triumphs once again, or not. I admit that there were times that I scanned scenes that for me, seemed to drag on for too long. I did enjoy the story.
NOTE: I received an ARC of the story from the author. This is my honest opinion.
A clean language, sweet romance, historical mystery you will need to hang in to the very end to find out if good triumphs once again, or not. I admit that there were times that I scanned scenes that for me, seemed to drag on for too long. I did enjoy the story.
NOTE: I received an ARC of the story from the author. This is my honest opinion.
February 1, 2021
I loved this book! Sue's twin brother Samuel had just gotten a job as valet to a duke before the fire that killed him and both their parents. Because she had nowhere else to go and nothing to make money, she passed herself off as her brother and became the valet for the Duke! I recommend this book to anyone who loves romance books!
January 26, 2021
Thank you for a very beautiful and written story I really enjoyed reading this
For five years she has hidden her self as a man
Lots of twists and turns and gripping kept you interested from the start
Can’t wait to see what you do next
For five years she has hidden her self as a man
Lots of twists and turns and gripping kept you interested from the start
Can’t wait to see what you do next
January 27, 2021
If you like suspense, mystery, deceit, villains, courage, determination, loyalty, kindness and love, this the nook to read. Sue’s family died in a house fire. Sue escaped the fire and ended up working for a Duke as her deceased brother Samuel. A must read as you will not be disappointed. Loved it.
January 28, 2021
Wonderful characters. Interesting plot. Vivid descriptions. Simply a GREAT read!
*I received a complimentary ARC of this book in order to read and provide a voluntary, unbiased and honest review, should I choose to do so.
*I received a complimentary ARC of this book in order to read and provide a voluntary, unbiased and honest review, should I choose to do so.
July 19, 2024
ok
While there was quite a lot of thinking in the story to be read ( and I found I skipped a lot of it) the rest of the story was entertaining, the plot devious and twisted, I didn’t see the outcome, how it came about was a surprise.
While there was quite a lot of thinking in the story to be read ( and I found I skipped a lot of it) the rest of the story was entertaining, the plot devious and twisted, I didn’t see the outcome, how it came about was a surprise.
February 2, 2021
Good read
Great story! Interesting concept and the author wove it together well. Clean, enough action to keep you reading and the characters are well written.
Great story! Interesting concept and the author wove it together well. Clean, enough action to keep you reading and the characters are well written.
February 5, 2021
Hidden in Plain Sight
I really enjoyed reading this story and all the characters. Can just picture them when I am reading. Glad everything ended we’ll for the good guys.
I really enjoyed reading this story and all the characters. Can just picture them when I am reading. Glad everything ended we’ll for the good guys.
January 15, 2022
The Duke's Choice
Samuel came as a youth to serve the Duke. He had no idea that Samuel was actually Sue pretending to be her late twin brother.
Samuel came as a youth to serve the Duke. He had no idea that Samuel was actually Sue pretending to be her late twin brother.
January 15, 2023
After the sudden death of his father in a carriage accident Vernon Wade, Duke of Upton, is feeling a bit lost and alone on the day of the funeral. The only person he feels he can trust and confide is Samuel his young valet. However Samuel has a very big secret known to only one other person, Samuel is actually Susan. After the death of her family Susan decides to take her late brother’s job as valet to the young heir to the Duke of Upton, as a way to stay safe and hidden.
This charade has worked for 5 years, until the Duke overhears a conversation between Sue and her maid friend Flossie, and Susan’s secret is known to another. After discussions, in order to keep Sue safe, the Duke initially decides to keep Samuel as his valet, although quickly moves Sam to a new job as footman.
Vernon was approached by a local earl at his father’s funeral, who claims to have been a close friend of his father, and tells Vernon of a planned marriage between him and the Earl’s youngest daughter. Vernon is not attracted to the young lady’s personality, and after checking his fathers papers can find no mention of the earl or any betrothal. Deciding to put any decisions behind him, Vernon goes to his cousin’s wedding taking with him two footmen and a maid, and everything builds to a climax very quickly.
I quite enjoyed this book, most of it being a little unbelievable, the main characters are well written, the book moves at a good pace.
I was able to work out much of the storyline, but not all, all in all a fairly good read. 3.5*
note the writeup/precis of this on websites is not strictly accurate the valet is Samuel not Rudolph Yardley
This charade has worked for 5 years, until the Duke overhears a conversation between Sue and her maid friend Flossie, and Susan’s secret is known to another. After discussions, in order to keep Sue safe, the Duke initially decides to keep Samuel as his valet, although quickly moves Sam to a new job as footman.
Vernon was approached by a local earl at his father’s funeral, who claims to have been a close friend of his father, and tells Vernon of a planned marriage between him and the Earl’s youngest daughter. Vernon is not attracted to the young lady’s personality, and after checking his fathers papers can find no mention of the earl or any betrothal. Deciding to put any decisions behind him, Vernon goes to his cousin’s wedding taking with him two footmen and a maid, and everything builds to a climax very quickly.
I quite enjoyed this book, most of it being a little unbelievable, the main characters are well written, the book moves at a good pace.
I was able to work out much of the storyline, but not all, all in all a fairly good read. 3.5*
note the writeup/precis of this on websites is not strictly accurate the valet is Samuel not Rudolph Yardley
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews