A Wish Upon a Duke

A Maypole in Mayfair #1

by Katherine Ann Madison, Maggie Dallen

How does a wallflower change her fate?

One Maypole
One Duke
One naughty puppy
And a little wish...

May Day is bearing down on Mayfair, and Miss Aubrey Featherington is facing another failed season. It’s difficult to be a successful debutante when one is as painfully shy as herself. And while she’d love to participate in the May Day festivities, she understands it’s not likely to happen. Her brother would never break from his busy schedule long enough to escort her.

Which is why, on a misty May morning, she takes a walk and finds herself in front of the Maypole. Instead of wishing for romance or love, she closes her eyes and asks for a gift far more practical. A puppy of her own. The kind that would give her the unconditional love she’s always craved but has never been given.

To her shock and amazement, moments later, a puppy bounds into her lap. It’s like a dream except for one rather large detail. The little pup comes attached to a surly and formidable looking duke.

Even more odd, he’s on the hunt for a wife. One that will not only suit him but his pack of exuberant hunting dogs. Will Aubrey pass the sniff test?

Genres: Historical Romance, Historical, Romance, Regency, Historical Fiction, Regency Romance, Clean Romance

158 pages, Kindle Edition

First published March 25, 2021

About the author

The sweet side of USA Today Bestselling author Tammy Andresen, Katherine Ann Madison is a lover of all things romantic—the sweeter, the better. The name is derived from her three daughters' names, and it's her goal to write romances that young teens all the way to her Nana Burton can read and enjoy. Full of heart, humor, and fun, Katherine is the light hearted, but still quick paced, romance your afternoon needs.

Reviews

[Lori D · Rating 5 out of 5]

A charming story that brought a smile to my heart as I fell in love with Drew, Aubrey and Patches. Of course I loved the puppy! With Drew's thought that he liked dogs more than most people, I felt a kinship! (the unconditional love of a pet cannot be measured!)

Aubrey was very shy, mainly because she had been beaten down by her family as she grew up. While attending a school for young ladies in London, she and her friends observe the construction of a Maypole for the MayDay celebration. Sneaking out one morning, they dance around the maypole and make a wish. It is Aubrey's wish to have a puppy, so what happens? One lands in her lap and she meets the man of her dreams.

Andrew, the Duke of Amesbury is chasing his runaway small hunting dog and it lands in the lap of the most sweet, beautiful girl. Then the journey takes off and I can say I loved every word!!

Such an amazing start to this new series with two authors I adore!! I am ready for the next one!

[Janet · Rating 4 out of 5]

May Day is bearing down on Mayfair and Miss Aubrey Featherington is facing another failed season. It’s difficult to be a successful debutante when one is as painfully shy as herself. And while she’d love to participate in the May Day festivities, she understands it’s not likely to happen. Her brother would never break from his busy schedule long enough to escort her. So on a misty spring morning, she takes a walk and finds herself in front of the Maypole. Instead of wishing for romance or love, she closes her eyes and asks for a gift far more practical. A puppy of her own. To her shock and amazement, moments later, a puppy bounds into her lap. It’s like a dream except for one rather large detail. The little pup comes attached to a surly and formidable looking duke.
Aubrey is attending a finishing seminary & this new series features her & her friends. A charmingly delightful romance with no intrigue & no darkness just two people who don’t fit but find that they fit together perfectly. I read this captivating series starter in a sitting, it was long enough to give the characters depth & be a complete the story but short enough to read in a session without reading well into the night. I look forward to the rest of he series
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read

[Els]

Loved it! 4,5 stars

[Lana Birky · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a sweet romance with no drama, angst or dark problems with the hero or heroine. Andrew White (Drew), Sixth Duke of Amesbury has recently come from the country as it is time to marry & provide the title with an heir & a spare. He has brought his seven hunting pointers - Clover, Rose, Lumpy, Lila, Frick, Frack & Patches. Patches is the new puppy & manages to escape out of his fenced yard & a young lady sees him & keeps him safe.

Miss Aubrey Featherly is attending the Dukesbury Finishing Seminary that neighbors the duke's property. She is there to learn how to converse with gentlemen & not get tongue tied. While out walking near the school with her friends a friendly puppy runs up to her & she picks him up & loves on him - funny thing she had just wished for a puppy this morning but she also wished for love. An angry man finds her with the pup & introduces himself as the Duke of Amesbury & thanks her for rescuing the pup but then blames all the noise that her & her friends were making to be the reason he escaped from his enclosure.

Their romantic friendship starts here & he is thrilled with her love of all his dogs & that she loves the country - the courtship is entertaining, sweet & the secondary characters are wonderful, I highly recommend this first book in the new series. I voluntarily read & reviewed an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book; all thoughts & opinions are my own.

[Margaret Watkins · Rating 4 out of 5]

Charming, lighthearted, and entertaining, as usual with these two authors, I found a lot to smile about. Mis Aubrey Featherington knows all about being the awkward runt of the litter. Thus when she wishes for her own dog after dancing around the May Pole, one that will give her the unconditional love and acceptance she so desperately needs, she immediately falls in love with the small scrap of fur that lands in her lap. She just didn't expect it to come with a Duke in tow. Drew, the Duke of Amesbury, lives and breaths for his hunting dogs. They all have quixotic names apart from the youngest pup named Axel, in the hopes that it would imbue him with some dignity. After the runaway hound lands in Aubrey's lap, Drew finds himself being drawn into Aubrey's beautiful eyes, and there is a chance that he has eventually found his kindred spirit. The problem is that there are others with their own agenda, and navigating the path through their deceit complicates his courtship. I enjoyed this lighthearted romance and was delighted that it came to a happy conclusion. I received a copy of this novella as a gift and this is my honest and voluntary review.

[HR-ML · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was an insta-love Regency. The hero's main
attraction to the h was her shyness, love of dogs,
& her looks.

Aubrey was a student @ finishing seminary, and
Andrew, "Drew" a duke, lived across the street.
She found his dog 'Axel' and suggested he be
renamed 'Patches.' Drew considered courting
Lady Abigail, but she'd called him cold & hard &
interested only in his hunting dogs. Should he
court the h?

Aubrey's bro, Herbert, a baron, was obnoxious
b/c most folks tolerated him. My favorite scene?
When shy Aubrey stood up to Herb! Later the H
helped Herb adjust his attitude.

Two people sneered at Drew, doubtful for this era,
b/c they would not want to alienate this powerful
duke. Everything fell into place too perfectly.

[Jenni · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a delightful short story, clocking in at about 120 Kindle pages. Short stories are exactly that... Short. The pace is ramped up and everything happens quickly. My big gripe was that this love story happens in 5 days. I would have enjoyed this more had the timeline been drawn out a bit.

Aubrey is attending a finishing seminary for girls and she, along with her three besties, are eager for the May Day festival to take place. Early one morning the four girls go to the newly erected maypole to each make a wish. Aubrey wishes for a puppy. Yes she does, and it's pretty adorable because moments later a puppy rushes over to her and they instantly bond. But that puppy belongs to Andrew White, sixth Duke of Amesbury and the soul purpose for his extended stay in town is to find a bride. But he sees something in Aubrey and appreciates her love for dogs since his passion is training and keeping hunting dogs when he's not doing dukely things.

This was a really cute story and you just have to take it for what it is. It's light and fluffy, with a dose of family drama and a little more drama from a girl that Drew just ended a courtship with. She makes an appearance to ruffle some feathers, but Andrew knows who he wants. Aubrey's confidence, or rather lack thereof, has been beaten to a pulp, but after spending one evening with her mother and brother, Andrew can see exactly why. Her brother has squandered all the family's money, including Aubrey's dowry, forcing them to close their country home. He's also chased away potential suitors for Aubrey that she didn't even know about to cover his tracks. Not only does Drew defend Aubrey, he's appalled at how the family is being managed and, in the end, helps to get the family back on their feet. Both main characters are likeable and Aubrey just sort of charms her way into Drew's heart. There's not a lot of substance in five days, but Aubrey appreciates the time Drew spends with her and their conversations flow much easier when she is just herself.

I give this short story 4 stars.. It's cute and sweet and made me happy to read it. I do enjoy Dallen/Madison books consistently and reliably. No steam but a few kisses.

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

Adorable. This is a sweet romance, so if you're looking for a little more spice, go check out Tammy Andresen. Starting off with the note that this is the first book in a series of four about a group of girls who all stay at a finishing school for girls for various reasons (family's all sent them there to get them out of the way or to try to correct their supposedly abysmal society skills). They see a Maypole being set up and sneak out one morning to see it for themselves, knowing their headmistress will not allow them to partake in festivities. Each makes a wish, and there you have the premise for the series: following each girl and how their wish oddly comes true. Very little drama - I get sick of 3/5 of the books I read having tons of mean girls and evil men and terrible things happening to have a happy ending. There is conflict, of course, but it's much milder and reconciled without a lot of dragged out unnecessary drama.
This book is about Aubrey, and her wish for a puppy. Innocent, adorable, and oh, it just so happens that the puppy she finds comes attached to a handsome and charming duke. I don't want to spoil it because it's not an exceptionally long book, but it's an excellent read and I heartily recommend it if you want a couple of hours of sweet courting and a happily ever after.

[fia · Rating 3 out of 5]

this was really sweet so the advertising is accurate! i love the inclusion of cute animals in historical romance, and patches the puppy here was especially adorable. the romance was nice, although i am afraid it fell a little flat, mainly because neither aubrey nor drew were particularly interesting (i still liked them). the conflict was just silly, the brother stuff was enough but i think the author felt like she had to throw something else in there and that was how we ended up with the evil former prospective bride who was simply too much for my taste, just there to be a pointless nuisance for a few pages. regardless of that i don't regret reading at all, i had a lovely time, and i look forward to diving into the rest of the series.

[Mrs Caroline Trevor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great

I found this a really good book. Aubrey is a great character. She is so kind and generous even with her terrible brother thwarting her making a good marriage. The Duke of Amesbury is a strong man and able to see Aubrey's charms despite her brother and can withstand several problems along the way. I am greatly looking forward to the remainder of the series.

[Laura J. · Rating 2 out of 5]

sweet and boring

Aubrey is a sweet girl with very little confidence in herself. She wishes she had a puppy and then, like magic (or unimaginative writing), a duke with a puppy comes along. Drew raises hunting dogs, loves the country and is a very nice, uncomplicated fellow.

Making the hero a duke was convenient in that he didn’t have to do anything to get Aubrey’s awful brother’s approval. It would have been more interesting if he were a Mister or Squire and cleverly got her brother’s approval.

[Made Me Blush Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

Short and so sweet!

This story was a fun and quick read with a little drama. I love how Aubrey and Drew brought out the best in each other and bonded over their love of dogs. It’s a great start to this series! Can’t wait to read the next one. 💕

[Lisa Pohlman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book! Such a sweet happy book. This is actually book one in a series of books about a group of friends who wish upon the Maypole. Each has their own wish. This book is about Aubrey Featherly and her wish of a puppy. Andrew White, Duke of Amesbury happens to own dogs. Highly recommend reading this book.

I received free copy of this book for my honest review

[Karen Darling · Rating 3 out of 5]

Short and sweet.

[Shelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a very sweet story! I love how the dogs played such a key role in their romance. Knowing what is important in your life and finding someone who shares that is a great way to start!

** I was fortunate to receive an ARC of this book in return for an honest review. **

[Rainelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved Aubrey and Drew. I can’t forget Patches. I enjoyed the sweetness and the pleasant aura the this story brought to me as a reader. The liked the lighthearted moments and the humorous moments that their romance shared in the book. I was entertained with the drama behind finding love matches and picking names for the puppy.

[Barbara · Rating 5 out of 5]

The first book in the A Maypole in Mayfair series a story that held my interest until the end. Miss Aubrey Featherington and Drew the Duke of Amesbury's story of a woman who gets tongue tied when her nasty brother is around, a puppy, and a Duke who sees her goodness. I enjoyed reading this story. I want to read more in this series. I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Angela · Rating 4 out of 5]

Puppies! Who can resist when they are as cute as Patches? Drew and the tongue-tied Aubrey make a cute couple. This was a very sweet story with no angst that will brighten up your day. Treat yourself.

I received a complimentary copy from the author.

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

Aubrey and Drew make a sweet couple. I especially enjoyed their mutual bonding over his dogs and how she was able to come out of her shell, so to speak, when given the right opportunity and on her own terms. Lovely beginning to this miniseries!

I received a free copy. My review is voluntary.

[Elaine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful story. I really enjoyed reading this into early morning. Loved the characters and plot was brill (even though only kisses). Lovely start to a new series! 5☆

[BaiwarAllah · Rating 3 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2

“Her brother had waved his arm. “I’ll make some match for her. There are men who will take even her. One of my friends will take pity on me and take her off my hands.”

“He had a sort of rough masculine charm that was…arresting. Her cheeks heated as she looked back down at the dog” “I am Miss Aubrey Featherly. It’s my honor to make your acquaintance, sir.”“The Duke of Amesbury, at your service.”

“She is often overcome with shyness,” the other woman stepped closer. “But underneath that is a gentle and kind girl who is actually very pleasant to share company with. I wouldn’t normally speak so candidly but I’m afraid gentlemen overlook her virtues when she refuses to speak with them.”

“The truth is that I’ve come to town to find a wife.”“And how is the search coming along?”“My search is going quite well, Miss Featherly. Thank you for asking.”

“Madame Bellafonte came to stand next to her. “Well done, dear. You’ve done your school proud.”

“Tonight, when you would like to retreat into your shell because you’re worried His Grace doesn’t like you, I want you to keep in mind that he does. Very much. It’s your family that makes him question you as a choice.”

“Her head snapped up as her mouth dropped open. In her entire life, no one had ever spoken to her brother like that. At least, not in front of her and certainly not in her defense.”“She knew it was wrong to get such pleasure from her brother’s put down, but in this moment, she liked Drew even more than she had before.”

“I asked your brother’s permission to court you, which he reluctantly granted, and now I am asking yours.”

“She didn’t care a wit about the title, but to be Drew’s wife… Her breath caught as she looked up at him. To kiss his skin again, to touch him. Anticipation filled her stomach with happy butterflies. What a wonderful prospect.”

“Dear lord above, he was falling in love. The realization hit him like a bale of hay falling from the loft. In his hunt for a suitable wife, he’d found someone so much more than just good enough.
How had it happened?
But he only need picture her sweet smile to know.
She was perfect for him”

“What if I don’t want anyone else? What if he’s the perfect man for me? What if…” Her voice trailed off in a gasp.
“What?” Sarah leaned forward.
“What if I’ve fallen in love?” Aubrey rose from the bed and crossed to the window. “I think I love him.”

[Reva Parks · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Dallen's YA Regency Romances as well as her contemporary ones; Madison may prove to be another dependable clean author. This story has Aubury attending a finishing school in the upscale Mayfair Park mainly because of acute shyness caused by overabundant critiquing by her family. She and her three friends notice the Maypole being erected in the park and decide to sneak a visit to it near dawn. The next morning, It seems as though her fondest wish for a puppy has been granted. But as she plays with him, a neighbor man claims the puppy as his own. Care for the puppy allows Aubury to make fine conversation with the neighbor, exchanging names, hearing about the puppy's history, and renaming him. The Duke calls on the school for Aubury after lunch to report to her on her correct observations on the puppy, keeping her comfortable while talking of his dogs.

It is almost unbelievable how the authors spin this charming tale so that Drew, who needs a wife and an heir, comes to believe that not only is Aubury a likely candidate, but he has fallen completely in love with her. Over five days time, they have the opportunity to visit at least twice a day, getting to know his pack of dogs that are so important to him, meet her brother and get his permission to court her, protect her from his sassy ex, out-negotiate her brother over her dowery, and be ready to propose to her at the end of escorting her to the May Day celebration himself! Give yourself the pleasure of enjoying the wit, the intrigue, and the adroit handling of plot points these authors are capable of!

[Bridget Love to read Lewis · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dog gone happy

Aubrey is painfully shy all due to her lovely family (not they are hideous) who have spoken to her like a proverbial pet! Andrew aka Drew is the Duke next door who has a misnamed puppy! It's amazing that names fit animals as well as people! Axel does not fit the puppy so Aubrey renames him Patches! Loving Patches is a dream come true for Aubrey has always wanted a pet! Patches gives her corsage! Aubrey is made fun of by her family and she has no real idea how to exert herself!
Drew just finished courting a young lady but she doesn't like dogs but he has several. Beauty was only skin deep and the girl was shallow as a puddle and twice as rude and toxic!
Patches definitely favored Aubrey and Drew certainly took notice that dogs are smarter than most humans! Aubrey brother and mother are so fake and pretentious Drew almost missed out! Like really who would want them for relatives?
Aubrey is sweet and pretty enough for Drew to pursue her, but Aubrey is offended by what another woman!? Yes she and Drew used to court but Drew saw they her nonsense! Aubrey runs away!?? Really girl fight for your man!
But Drew knows what he wants and makes steps to secure it! You have to love the strong hero when the Heroine has low self-esteem etc! Will love conquer all or will their love and courtship go to the dogs?

[Brenda · Rating 4 out of 5]

May Day is bearing down on Mayfair and Miss Aubrey Featherington is facing another failed season. It’s difficult to be a successful debutante when one is as painfully shy as herself. And while she’d love to participate in the May Day festivities, she understands it’s not likely to happen. Her brother would never break from his busy schedule long enough to escort her.

Which is why on a misty May morning, she takes a walk and finds herself in front of the Maypole. Instead of wishing for romance or love, she closes her eyes and asks for a gift far more practical. A puppy of her own. The kind that would give her the unconditional love she’s always craved but has never been given.
To her shock and amazement, moments later, a puppy bounds into her lap. It’s like a dream except for one rather large detail. The little pup comes attached to a surly and formidable looking duke.
Even more odd, he’s on the hunt for a wife. One that will not only suit him but his pack of exuberant hunting dogs. Will Aubrey pass the sniff test?
Dogs are just the thing inevetibly that makes the match for this couple.
Are they overcome with love?
I borrowed a free copy compliments of Kindle Unlimited.
This book is by Tammy Andresen writing as Katherine Ann Madison.

[Christine Rains · Rating 4 out of 5]

Miss Aubrey Featherington get tongue-tied around people, and thus she's been unable to gain the interest of a potential beau. Her friends convince her to sneak out one misty morning to dance around the Maypole and make a wish. Aubrey wishes for a puppy, and suddenly one bounds up into her lap. And handsome Duke Amesbury follows right behind. Will the duke become smitten with the shy young lady and her love of animals or will her shyness make her wither up in front of another potential suitor?

This was a light and easy Regency romance read. Aubrey is a sweet lady with a not-so-nice brother, and because of his verbal abuse, she is extremely shy. She's slowly been coming out of her shell at the finishing school, but the surprise puppy helps her a lot. It's fun that an animal helps make this connection. There is little conflict in the book, just a sweet, quick romance. It could have been amped up with Aubrey brother being more involved and the Duke's previous lady he courted causing more trouble. If you enjoy sweet Regency romances, then you'll like this one.

[Peggy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Andrew White, Duke of Amesbury, is large, handsome, loves dogs, and is looking for a wife. Until now, the search for a wife has been unsuccessful. Miss Aubrey Featherly attends Dukesbury Finishing Seminary which is across the park from the Duke’s townhouse. Aubrey is lovely, but hasn’t had a successful season since she came to London. She is painfully shy, especially around men. When Drew’s newest puppy escapes, Aubrey catches and holds it for him. They talk and tease each other a little bit. (Totally unusual for Aubrey). A friendship begins. Both hope that it might become more.

This is an absolutely charming story with a delightful cast of characters. Madame Bellafonte is a strict, but pleasant lady. The girls at the school with Aubrey, who will no doubt get their own stories are friendly and funny. There are a couple of unpleasant people, but they are fairly easily thwarted. A lovely May Day story. I enjoyed it and look forward to the series. What was Aubrey’s wish at the May Pole? A puppy, and a true love.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.

[Deb Rohla · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is Aubrey and Drew''s story and book one in the new series A Maypole in Mayfair. It's a wonderful story containing a painfully shy heroine, a horrible brother, May Day festivities, a wish upon a Maypole, a mischievous puppy, searching for unconditional love, 4 great friends, a wife hunt, mutual love of dogs, a wish come true, plus more...
Aubrey and her 3 good friends are at a finishing school for girls that need a little extra polish on their social skills. They decide to sneak out and make wishes upon the Maypole. Their wishes are not what you'd expect from four debutants.
Aubrey is so shy, she can't talk to men. How will she ever find a match if she can't communicate with men?
Drew is looking for a wife. But he finds he really loves his dogs more then most people. Where can he possibly find a woman who can love dogs just as much as himself?
This is a sweet story you'll be sure to enjoy!
I received an ARC of this book. This is my honest review.

[❄ Pixelflocke ❄ · Rating 2 out of 5]

1,5🏵

Die Kindle-Version gibt es aktuell kostenlos auf Amazon und viel mehr ist es leider auch nicht wert. Es ist eine kleine Kurzgeschichte à la Bridgerton (einige Sätze sind definitiv von der Serie geklaut!) über einen reichen, unglaublich männlich aussehenden Herzog (das war der Autorin anscheinend sehr wichtig), der sich in die schüchterne Aubrey Featherly verliebt. Sie treffen sich einmal im Park, dann gehen sie die Hunde füttern und 3 Tage später folgt der Heiratsantrag, das war's auch schon.

Alle Charaktere sind so unglaublich eindimensional, aber immerhin unproblematisch und nicht übergriffig. Der Versuch ein bisschen Drama durch die eifersüchtige Ex und den gemeinen Bruder aufzubauen, wirkt eher halbherzig. Abgesehen von der 08/15 Regency Romance Formel fielen hier die sehr vielen Fehler auf (fehlende Wörter, Schusselfehler wie "is" anstatt "if" zB, Schreibfehler, etc), da hätte lieber mal jemand kurz drüber lesen sollen.

[Raquel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a sweet read with a puppy!! If you like sweet regency stories this is for you. Aubrey is a little awkward always having trouble when it comes to meeting gentlemen and is not sure she will ever find the one. At a school for girls, there is a Maypole just outside of her school that has her and her friends sneaking out and making a wish each. Aubrey wishes for a puppy and what she gets is not just cute Axel but his very handsome owner Drew, a Duke. Drew is in town to find a wife and he has one particular girl in mind but one run away dog has him meeting Aubrey a girl who is more than happy to share his love of dogs. A lovely read with a happy conclusion and more books to come with a cute loveable puppy.

Voluntarily read and reviewed an arc of this book.

[Deborah · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Delightful might be the word he’d used to describe her, and he never used that word. Ever."

This was such a sweet and cozy romance. Aubrey and Drew are so perfect for each other. I love that they can both eventually see, that what others have said to them before, doesn't really define them. Madame Bellafonte is a queen among women, enough said. Dual perspectives are always fun, and I'm interested in the future stories of her other schoolmates.

"He gave himself a little shake. He’d known the lady for all of a day. Now was not the time to imagine kissing her. Still, once the thought occurred, he was having a difficult time unthinking it."

“When I looked into his eyes, I just couldn’t say no. They spoke to me and they said, I belong with you.”