Book picks similar to
Melting a Duke's Winter Heart by Abby Ayles
historical-romance
regency
freebie
romance
A Bride to Melt the Sheriff’s Iron Heart
Melynda Carlyle - 2020
A sheriff with an iron heart. Their worlds are fated to collide.Melanie Thomson is an outspoken woman who was raised by her father as a tomboy. if she was a son. When he passes, she is hurled into a world she does not understand. Trapped in high society and courted by to a man she never loved, she makes a run for herself and flees town.Peter Matherson, the sheriff with a rugged past, finds himself increasingly attracted to this headstrong woman arriving in his town. He tries approaching her through the school she has replied for a job to no avail.But when his adversaries and her past collide, the pair is forced into an unexpected alliance that will reveal more about themselves than they ever anticipated. Can the truth set their lives on the right path?If you like stories full of unexpected turns and you believe strong hearts attract, then this book is for you!*If you like engaging characters, heart- wrenching twists and turns, and lots of romance, then you’ll love “A Bride to Melt the Sheriff’s Iron Heart”!Buy “A Bride to Melt the Sheriff’s Iron Heart” and unlock the exciting story of Peter and Melanie today!Get This Book FREE With Kindle Unlimited!
Ruby McBride
Freda Lightfoot - 2002
The grand opening of the Manchester Ship Canal is set to be a day of unfettered festivity for Ruby and her younger sister and brother. Even Queen Victoria will be in attendance.But the glories of the ceremony fade into insignificance when their dying mother delivers them to the imposing oak doors of Ignatius House. Abandoned in the not-so-tender care of the nuns, the siblings are soon separated.So when the Board of Guardians force Ruby into a marriage that sends her to a new home upon the Salford waterways, she makes only one vow: to reunite her family whatever the cost.
This is an enthralling story of romance and rebellion perfect for fans of Rosie Goodwin and Dilly Court.
Praise for Ruby McBride ‘An inspiring novel about accepting change and bravely facing the future’ Bangor Chronicle‘Compelling and heart-wrenching’ Hull Daily Mail‘The kind of character-driven saga that delights the Catherine Cookson and Josephine Cox audience’ Peterborough Evening Telegraph‘This book deals with gritty, real-life situations and shows how the heroine’s strength of character triumphs through adversity’ 5* Reader review
How to Reform a Rake: Regency Romance Boxed Set
Tammy Andresen - 2019
Don't Tell a Duke You Love Him He was too dangerous to be denied… The Duke of Longley was a rake and should be left well enough alone. At least that is what Lady Lily Ducat’s mother continually said. As far as Lily could tell, she was correct. His Grace had a devilish air about him and a brooding silence that no debutante should attempt to tame and certainly not grow an affection for. He was too much man and beyond redemption. Except once they are tossed together after a winter storm, she is dangerously close to declaring her love because in the dark of night, he was all Lily could see. Meddle in a Marquess's Affairs Rakes make the worst husbands… Not that Rex Baluster, the Marquess of Highwater would want her anyway. But when he arrived at Lady Camille Ducat’s door shot and near death, she didn’t hesitate to help him. She had no reputation to preserve after all. She’d given that up when she ended her engagement to another rake. And though her heart beat wildly every time she looked at Rex, she knew that to involve herself with such a man would only lead to heartache. Never Trust an Errant Earl A surly rake and a desperate lady… Lady Cristina Ducat might not be as clever as her sisters, but she knows when action is required. Her mother seems set on arranging an unwanted marriage for Cristina, but Cristina has plans of her own. She’s got the perfect man all picked out. The problem? The Earl of Clearwood, Sirius Renwall, keeps getting in her way. Not only is Si annoying beyond measure with his dark and brooding demeanor, but he makes her heart beat in the most curious and exhilarating way. Never Kiss an Earl at Midnight A bluestocking and a rake… Lady Victoria Ducat has an orderly life filled with academic pursuits and the care of her ailing father. She has no use for a drunken rake like the Earl of Kissinger. Just because he is handsome, charming, and he makes her knees weak doesn’t mean she’s going to give up her principles. So what if Lord Kissinger looks at her the way no man has before? She’ll just ignore the heat in his gaze and the breathless want it brings. She had a plan and she’ll stick to it, which is a far sight better than getting her heart broken…isn’t it? Make a Viscount Beg An unrepentant rogue and a desperate lady… Lady Adelaide Ducat hated the Viscount of Averstone with a passion that sang in her blood. The man was a wretch, a rake, a rogue, and so annoying that she’d like to… well, she desperately wanted to… she ought to….kiss him until he begged for mercy. Wait. That wasn’t right. She’s got bigger problems to worry about, like what her scheming mother was planning or how she’s going to care for her dying father. She needs a husband to help her not a rogue who would only distract. So why can’t she stop thinking about how good his lips would taste? Can a single kiss change their minds forever?
A Masquerade of Pride and Love
Leah Conolly - 2021
But when she starts talking about women’s rights, most of them find the urge to flee…When she meets a mysterious, open-minded man at a masquerade, she knows he is the only one for her, but in a cruel twist of fate, the night ends and they have not revealed their identities…Desperate to find her one true match, Susanna has to try-covertly to locate her intriguing Hades, and fend off potential suitors her mother throws her way at the same time. Especially that irritating Duke of Sussex…But what she doesn’t know is that the Duke himself has no interest in her, as he, too, is in search of the enchanting woman that stole his heart in a single conversation: his strong-willed Persephone…
Lady Adalyn: A Reverse Harem Risqué Regency
Sahara Kelly - 2019
For the first time in my life, I felt a gentleman’s hands assisting me in removing my clothing. Yes, I shall surely be condemned to an eternity of agony for such a transgression, but I had no one else to ask. Giles brought hot water to my chamber and found me struggling with the tapes of my gown. He was all that was proper and polite, and had me unlaced in a trice, which was very helpful. My blushes must have added their own warmth to the room, but given his kindness and his attentions to me, I was not unduly overset. Lady Adalyn Wilkerson’s Diary, Wolfbridge Manor, January 1817 A birthday, a marriage and a funeral—twenty-year-old Adalyn has experienced them all in the space of a fortnight. The widowed Lady Wilkerson is lost, homeless and helpless as she stands next to her late husband’s grave, until an elegant gentleman introduces himself as her new butler, takes her to Wolfbridge Manor—and her life changes forever. She finds herself mistress of a tidy estate, run by the most amazing men she’s ever set eyes on. Their attentions teach her about loyalty, affection, caring and devotion, and stimulate the dawning of her sensuality. Unfortunately, not even her skilled and loving gentlemen can keep trouble from the door, and Adalyn is going to need all the courage she possesses to protect Wolfbridge and its residents. But protect them she will, if it takes every ounce of her strength. Others might have hesitated, but the men of Wolfbridge have taught her well – she isn’t just a mere cypher in a bonnet, she is their Lady Adalyn. This is the first novel in The Saga of Wolfbridge Manor. The story will continue in Book 2.
Montana Westward Brides Box Set #1-4
Amelia Rose - 2020
Desperate for her marriage to Dr. Sam Slater to finally bring her the good fortune she longs for, Lucy’s fears are confirmed when a tragic death clouds her journey to meet him. Just one look at the dashing doctor’s face, and Lucy knew their marriage was the right choice. But Lucy is devastated when their first picnic together ends with the discovery of Sam’s shepherd’s dead body. Her luck turns from bad to worse when she starts receiving anonymous threats: someone is trying to force them from the land. But who? Will Lucy’s love for Sam be enough to get them through the storm, or is she really destined for a life of misfortune and tragedy?◆◆◆Martha Walters has left the brothel behind her, but a new marriage seems to be her only way out. Desperate to find a suitable husband, Matha meets an older man: a handsome cattle rancher 10 years her senior.Gray Jenkins is certain he’s too old to attract a wife, but the gentle farmer tries his luck with a mail-order bride. Never in his wildest dreams did he imagine someone as beautiful and charming as Martha would be interested in him.Martha falls head over heels for the wisecracking farmer, but she has a secret. The new life growing inside her and a dark enemy from her past threaten their one shot at happiness. Can Martha and Gray triumph over Martha’s past and the menace that follows her? Will they finally get their chance at true love?◆◆◆With his poor literacy and lack of formal education, ranch hand Eddie Murtaugh believes he’s destined for a life of loneliness. But when his friend helps him attract the attention of a mail-order bride, his luck begins to change.Fiona Wilkins is eager to leave her life in high society behind her and embark on an adventure on the frontier. She secretly replies to Eddie’s listing, but her father has other plans for her: she is to be auctioned off to a man she detests. Desperate to escape her parents and a future of certain unhappiness, Fiona escapes to Montana during the night.But her carriage is hijacked, and Eddie’s anxiety turns to dread when he hears that the woman of his dreams has been taken hostage. Can Eddie and Fiona escape fate’s plans for them and secure a life of love and happiness together? Only time will tell.◆◆◆Sheriff Josh Ryder is lonely, and longs for nothing more than someone to come home to after a long day. He has no shortage of replies to his listing for a mail-order bride, but can he really trust that it’s him that they want, or do they simply dream of being married to a notorious man of the law? There’s one beauty he can’t resist though: Emily Middleton.Her high society dreams shattered by her father’s bankruptcy, Emily looks for love in the West, and when she finally meets the sheriff, she’s certain she can get her life back on track. But Emily wants more than he can give her, and despite his charm and rugged good looks, she’s worried that her fresh start might not be the future she dreamed of. Is marriage truly on the cards for this fiery couple? Can they see past their forceful personalities to find the love between them?◆◆◆Four brides on four inspirational quests towards a future of freedom and love. But can they outwit their pasts? Is true love really within their grasp?In Montana Westward Brides: Book 1-4, you’ll find four captivating tales of love, danger, and destiny. Lose yourself in the lives of four passionate heroines as they each embark on the journey of a lifetime.To immerse yourself in four gripping tales of love and ambition, click “Buy Now” to see where your passions lead you.
Lords of London: Books 4-6
Tamara Gill - 2019
One impromptu kiss leaves her wanting more. If he's willing... To Dare a Duchess An indiscretion tore Nina and Byron apart. Now back in London, free from restraint a love affair ensues. But for how long when secrets still remain. To Marry a Marchioness Newly appointed Marquess, Marcus Duncan is thrown into the path of his cousin’s widow. Henrietta instantly charms him, and now he wants her for himself.
A Duke's Desire
G.L. Snodgrass - 2020
The man risked his life to save her. What woman wouldn’t fall in love. From London’s lowest rung. A penniless Miss Ann Parker is perfectly aware that women such as herself are never admitted to his world. That won’t stop her from dreaming. The Duke of Bedford had one simple rule. Never allow the weak to be mistreated. He and his friends may live lives of privilege. But with that comes responsibility. However, that does not include matrimony. Especially not to the less than brilliant ninnies his mother is constantly pushing on him. In order to forestall his mother’s efforts, the Duke needs someone to make her second guess her plans. If he can convince her he is thinking of marrying a commoner, perhaps she will decide that it is better that he not marry than betray their class. In need of a pretend heiress to work the deception. The Duke turns to his maid, Ann Parker, for her help. A woman from the wrong side of life, yet a woman of intelligence, natural grace, and charm. With help and a little luck, she may be able to help him avoid a disastrous marriage. Like Cinderella, Ann is exposed to a magical world. His world. But every moment is a reminder that it is a man and a world she cannot have.
Love's Second Chance Series Box Set One: Books One to Four
Bree Wolf - 2017
These marriage-of-convenience stories with a touch of mystery will tug at your heartstrings and keep you up till the wee hours of the morning. A clean read with swoonworthy kisses. #1 Forgotten & Remembered - The Duke's Late Wife One night, they found themselves under some mistletoe. Now, he owes her a kiss. And she is determined to claim it. His heart torn in two, GRAHAM ASTOR, Duke of Kensington, mourns his wife. As he distances himself from everything that reminds him of happier days lost forever, he comes to realize that there is one thing he cannot run from. Graham needs a new wife, if only for the sake of his daughter. Disillusioned with love, ROSABEL LANDER only wishes to not remain a burden to her uncle’s family much longer. After seeing her parents’ love turn against them, Rosabel dreams of an independent life as a governess. But then a stranger asks for her hand in marriage, and to her utter shock her uncle instantly agrees. Will Rosabel find love after all? Or will the memory of Graham’s late wife keep him from finding happiness? #2 Cursed & Cherished - The Duke's Wilful Wife One night, she stole his kiss. Now, he is determined to steal it back. EDMOND DUNSWORTH, Duke of Cromwell, is bankrupt. The solution to his problem: a wife with a sizable dowry. Not worried in the least, Edmond takes his pick. After all, what woman could resist his charms? ANNA HANFORD, a merchant’s daughter, is faced with a difficult choice: allow her sister to marry the duke and see her happiness shattered…or marry the duke herself. Determined to ensure her sister’s future, Anna makes her choice. After all, isn’t marriage just a minor inconvenience in life? #3 Despised & Desired - The Marquess' Passionate Wife Long ago, he kept her secret. Now, she will save his soul. ELSBETH MUNFORD is set to marry the man she loves until an accident destroys her life. Her beauty tainted by ugly scars, Ellie resigns herself to a life of spinsterhood. FREDERICK LANCASTER, brother to the Marquess of Elmridge, returns home from war. A hero in the eyes of others, he is haunted by nightmares. Unable to make his peace with the past, Frederick retreats into the dark until his brother dies and he not only inherits his title, but with it the obligation to produce an heir. When two damaged souls find themselves tied to one another, will they pull each other under? Or will they help each other rise again from the ashes of their shattered lives? #4 Abandoned & Protected - The Marquis' Tenacious Wife He forced her hand. Now, she will deny him her heart. After what her father did to her mother, HENRIETTA TURNER’s worst fears are to be realised when her uncle decides to marry her off to a Scot. Gentleman or not, Henrietta knows that at his core he is still a barbarian. What will she suffer at the hands of this savage? CONNOR BRUNWOOD, Marquis of Rodridge, can’t believe he fell head over heels in love with this thin, pale twig of a girl.
A West Breeze of Love
Aurora Hanson - 2019
Facing this dreadful situation, she sees only one option: going undercover as a man and infiltrating the same gang that brought tragedy to her family. But when one of the gang members turns out to be someone she's met before and finds out her secret, how long will it be until things get ugly? Philip is an active member of one of the most notorious criminal gangs. Even though their leader is his childhood friend, he can't help but question their violent techniques. But when Philip discovers a dangerous secret about the new member that has recently joined them, things will get much more complicated. Will he choose his friendship over the charming lady who managed to deceive them? Or will he give in to his feelings about her, risking their lives? When choosing sides becomes a matter of life and death, Jessie and Philip will have to decide whether they can really trust each other. Will Jessie eventually find justice for her father? Or will she end up risking both her life and her only chance for a new start?
Winn's Fall: Common Elements Romance Project
Clair Brett - 2020
A family curse says he will die by the time he turns thirty years old. He will not leave a young wife and a child behind like his father did to him. When childhood friend Miss Zoe Chase returns to stay with his sister and find a husband, Winn’s plans are thrown into chaos. Not only is the once gangly, awkward girl he remembers, is now everything that tempts him, the accidents that once plagued his life are happening to her. He must keep her safe, but how can he do that when ravaging her is all he can consider? Or perhaps the curse isn’t a curse after all. Will Winn die, or will he fall?
A Pirate at Pembroke
Danielle Thorne - 2018
Her father is a gossip, her mother has her nose in a book, and little Jack has shamefully been dismissed from boarding school. Worst of all, a pirate moves next door into Pembroke Hall.When Sophie's sent to a matchmaking party at a neighboring estate, the pirate from Pembroke arrives and distracts everyone from the summer festivities. Unguarded, her feelings about the mysterious Captain Murdock bloom into a trusted friendship that Sophie fears may come to mean more than anyone would ever suspect.
A Courtesan Countess Worth the Scandal
Ava MacAdams - 2021
When her family is threatened, she does the one thing she can to protect them: publishes a book exposing them all.After his disaster of a marriage, Liam Westwood, the Earl of Keswick, made a sacred pact: never fall in love again. Having spent his years abroad, he never expected to meet a vixen that would test his sanity and haunt his nights upon his return.With the Ton’s most scandalous secrets hiding between the pages of her book, Nora has no shortage of people who wish to see her suffer. And some are determined to see her ruined. When the manuscript falls in Liam’s hands, his feelings of betrayal are overshadowed by a single thing: a name that jumps out more than all the others put together. His.
The Reluctant Duke's Dilemma
Trisha Messmer - 2020
She longed to be free. Pressured by forces beyond their control, will they give in to forbidden desire?England, 1823. After establishing a successful practice in America, Dr. Harry Radcliffe swore he wouldn’t set foot on British soil again. But when he’s named the Duke of Ashton after his callous brother’s sudden death, he begrudgingly returns to the pretentious world he detests. And his pledge to his dying mother to find a wife is thrown into chaos when he meets his stunning sister-in-law.Margaret Radcliffe finally escaped her abusive marriage. Yet her late husband’s final cruel act left her penniless, with her only option to remarry... the one thing she vowed she’d never do again. But the new duke’s startlingly familiar features awaken yearnings she thought long-forgotten, dangling the heartbreaking whisper of a passion impossible to fulfill.Although convinced the accusations that she murdered her husband are only salacious gossip, Harry's real torment comes when he wishes for a union that would make them outcasts. But even when they finally submit to their simmering attraction, Margaret’s dream of happily-ever-after may be derailed by society’s schemes.Can a scandalous affair turn into a lifetime of love?The Reluctant Duke's Dilemma is the suspenseful first book in The Hope Clinic Regency romance series. If you like swoon-worthy heroes, uplifting humor, and heroines beating the odds, then you’ll adore Trisha Messmer’s tale of tortured hearts.
Seducing the Bride
Michelle McMaster - 2000
They come across a beautiful young woman—clad only in a nightdress—laying unconscious in a rubbish heap. Worried for her safety and famous for his habit of taking in strays, Beckett takes the mysterious girl home and puts her to bed, intent on calling a doctor the next day. But his good intentions go awry when his mother and solicitor make an unplanned visit the next morning, and all hell breaks loose.When the impoverished viscount learns he is now heir to a wealthy earldom, Beckett must quickly take a bride. Having been jilted by his former fiancée, he no longer believes in love… but Beckett does believe in the heated desire this “mysterious angel” stirs within him. He vows to make the voluptuous beauty his wife.Isobel Hampton is on the run from a villainous nobleman who will stop at nothing until he possesses both her and her family estate. The strong-minded miss makes a break for freedom and disappears into the night, but Sir Harry Lennox vows to find her. When she awakens in the bed of a handsome viscount, Isobel demands to know how she got there. But something in Lord Thornby’s eyes makes her want to trust the handsome lord. When he proposes a marriage of convenience, it could be the solution to all of Isobel’s problems… or just the beginning of them.For though Beckett and Isobel have sworn to a marriage in name only, the flame of passion burns hot between them. As they engage in a dangerous dance of seduction, the last place they expect to find true love is in each other’s arms.Originally published as The Marriage Bargain in 2000 - Seducing The Bride is a newly revised and updated edition.