Book picks similar to
Secret Dreams of a Fearless Governess by Abby Ayles


historical-romance
regency
freebie
historical-settings

Painted with the Colors of Love


Carol Colyer - 2021
    Her life is thrown into turmoil therefore when her parents present her with a surprise betrothal to a man she hasn't even met. Without a second thought, she refuses to abide by it, protesting that she will never marry a man she does not love. Then, out of nowhere, a mysterious stranger shows up in town, confusing her feelings and challenging her convictions. Joseph always appears to be in the right place at the right time and Cassie finds herself intensely intrigued by him. Will Cassie set aside her doubts and take a chance on the unknown with Joseph? Can she escape the fate that her parents have arranged for her?Michael Joseph hasn't had much luck with meeting a loving wife to spend his life with so far. When his parents reveal that he is promised to a girl from his past, he sees his chance to have his happily ever after. Having no intention of marrying someone who may only want him for his money though, he decides to set out to win this woman's heart as a stranger. Yet when he arrives in Texas, he discovers that approaching Cassie will be a little more complicated than he expected. Will he be able to break down her walls and gain her trust? Or will Michael lose his chance at true love?Michael and Cassie slowly start to form a precious bond, but shadowy forces are not willing to let them find happiness. When Michael's life is put in danger, Cassie will need to make a decision that could decide the rest of her life... Will they overcome the danger and stand by each other's side forever?

Not Like a Lady


Judith Lynne - 2019
    But he's not his father, he's a salty ex-sailor who lost half a leg in the war and has a far worse temper than his father ever did. Struggling to fill his father's role, he's desperate to get outdoors again - but for that he needs a biddable horse he can ride. He's not prepared for the horse to come with a woman who wants her own life... and who decides that the key to her future is helping him ride again.Letty has never been anything even close to a lady. Sir Michael imagines that the lady of Roseford Manor will be like his mother: calm and elegant. Neither of them can resist the one person they ought to refuse.A sensual, engrossing, enchanting romance between two people who can't keep their hands off one another.Not Like a Lady is a historical regency romance novel with steamy moments and sweet ones, of about 300 pages.It includes a woman with a knack for saying what she thinks and no talent for needlework, a gallant if grumpy baronet, and a Happily Ever After!Not Like a Lady is a standalone book! but if you enjoyed it, stay tuned for The Countess Invention... Or jump straight to Anthony's story in Crown of Hearts!

Dashing Dukes and Romantic Rogues


Christi Caldwell - 2019
    From USA Today and Best Selling authors come five delicious Regency tales of Dashing Dukes and Romantic Rogues.Only For His Lady by Christi CaldwellThe Rayne family is trapped in a rut of bad luck. And now, it's up to Lady Theodosia Rayne to steal back the Theodosia sword, a gladius that was pilfered by the rival, loathed Renshaw family. The last thing Theodosia expects however, is that she’ll fall for the head of the Renshaw family...the Devil Duke.My Wild Duke by Eva DevonLady Beatrix Westport was once destined to be the most successful debutant the ton has ever seen but tragedy has stolen all her future. Captain Adam Duke loves adventure and justice. After meeting Lady Beatrix, he longs to convince her to choose a life of love. But will her broken past drive them apart?Her Errant Earl by Scarlett ScottWhen American heiress Victoria fell in love with the Earl of Pembroke, she never imagined he’d heartlessly wed, bed, and abandon her in the countryside. After he suddenly returns, determined to prove to her he’s a changed man, she’s not about to forgive him, trust him, or succumb to his scorching kisses.Hell in a Hand Basket by Annabelle AndersOnce in motion, their lie spirals into a web of deceit and guilt. Was Sophia and Devlin's grasp at heaven worth a lifetime of hell? Because love endures but the heart has it’s limits…My Earl's Entrapment by Tammy AndresenLord William Addington has been forced into retirement as one of the Prince Regent's domestic spies. He still has one case to solve while attending a house party when an adorably feisty lady enters his room in the middle of the night. He now has another delicious mystery on his hands. Why is Lady Roselyn Pennington snooping about?

Surrendered to the Lust of the Duke


Ava MacAdams - 2020
    Rescued from the workhouse by a kind Duke, his charity school is the only home she knows. Until the day his son, the man she loves, announces his intention to shut it down.David Wearwood, the Duke of Lentingdale, could never live up to his father’s expectations. Now returned from his travels to attend his funeral, he stumbles upon Teresa. In the place of the little girl stands a woman he seems unable to control himself around.In a desperate attempt to save the only home she’s ever known, Teresa mingles with the wrong crowd. Abominable agendas born in the slums of London decades ago, that not even David can protect her from. Attending a disastrous ball leads them to a peculiar clue: a pink handkerchief. The one Teresa has been seeing in her nightmares...

A Mail Order Answer to the Sheriff’s Prayer


Rita Wethers - 2021
    Struggling to make ends meet, she decides to alleviate some of the burden of her father’s shoulders and reply to a mail order bride from out of state. While corresponding with this man, she decides to take the leap of fate and change her life.Joel Slayton is the celebrated sheriff of Keysville, Utah. A widower living with his sister, Joel can almost boast to have completely rid his town of crime, since he has focused all his life and energy on that. At the encouragement of his sister, he will start corresponding with a woman named Elisa and patiently awaits her to arrive and become his future wife.When an accident changes the course of his life, Elisa will meet a man she did not expect to find. Can they work through the hardships and the unprecedented horrors this newfound fate has brought them? And how can they reconstruct the past if the promise of their future together is in danger?Find out in this gripping tale of Western Romance, where love will have to dig deep to unearth the power of faith.

A Duke's Fleeing Bride


Alice Kirks - 2021
    When her parents announce that she is soon to begin an official courtship with the arrogant Duke of Wharton, Dianna is left with no choice but to run away from her worst nightmare. After disguising her identity, she finds a position as a maid in a nearby village, but unfortunately, her employer turns out to be painfully unpleasant. In an unexpected twist of fate, her detestable intended will track her down, making Dianna's heart skip a beat as he meets another side of him. Will Lady Dianna manage to escape this living hell and give love a chance? Will she realise that the Duke might be more than what he seems and the one who will bring light to her life?Lord Jonas Haddon, Duke of Wharton, comes across as very arrogant, but deep inside, he is a caring man who hopes to marry out of love and lead an ordinary life. Intrigued by the boldness and independence of Lady Blackstone, he is determined to find her after hearing she ran away. When he finally discovers she is hiding out as a maid, he does everything in his power to prove that he is not the prideful man she thinks him to be. It won't be long until he realises that he can't think of a future without her, seeking to court her even in her position as a maid. Will the charming Duke convince Dianna of his genuine feelings and good intentions? Will he manage to claim the heart of the only woman who has invaded his dreams and occupied his every thought?While feelings of affection start to blossom between Dianna and Jonas, Dianna's tyrannical employer makes her life miserable even to the point of her own devastation. On top of this, no matter how hard Jonas tries to persuade Diana to return to her old life with him on her side, her pride does not allow her to give up so early. Will Dianna find her desired escape and could Jonas be the true salvation she has been looking for? Could their everlasting happiness have been right in front of them this whole time or will poor decisions trap them into an unbearable life?"A Duke's Fleeing Bride" is a historical romance novel of approximately 80,000 words. No cheating, no cliffhangers, and a guaranteed happily ever after.

The Duke who Saved me


Edith Byrd - 2021
    A mere Baron’s daughter will find herself saddled with the title of Duchess and a husband she barely knows…Laurence Webbs knows he should marry and produce an heir to his Duchy, but he cannot help postponing the inevitable as he is so used to living alone. When a random act of kindness backs him into a corner, he must do the honorable thing and push his misgivings aside…Henrietta and Laurence must find a way to coexist, thinking that a loveless marriage is all the future holds for them. But when love comes knocking on their door a whole new world opens up ahead…Though, it’s still not happily ever after for the two of them…

Montana Mail Order Brides Box Set: Books 7 - 9


Linda Bridey - 2014
    Books 7 - 9 in the series that critics describe as “a wonderful blend of hope, humor, passion, romance, and forgiveness.” Westward Dreams When Hannah Fairbanks answers an advertisement for a mail-order-bride, she thinks she’s found the man with whom she’ll spend the rest of her life. Instead she finds that her prospective husband, Clive Laramie, has lied to her about everything he told her in the letters they exchanged. Now stranded in Dawson, Hannah decides to make the best of her situation. Unexpectedly she meets Owl a local Lakota brave who instantly captivates Hannah with his dark exotic looks and kindness. Owl ignites a passion in Hannah that she didn’t know existed. Owl has never been attracted to a white woman before, but when he saves Hannah from a disastrous fall in the mud, all of that changes. It only takes one look in her beautiful amber eyes for a connection to be made between them. The proud Lakota brave can’t get Hannah out of his mind and begins wooing her. Amid racial bias and societal conflict, an unlikely romance develops between them. Their relationship is put to the test by a horrible event that creates a terrible divide in the citizens of Dawson. Owl makes a decision that will endanger any future the couple could have together. Can they rise above bigotry and heartache to catch the dream of love they desperately desire? Westward Holiday Rebecca Walker has been plunged from the pinnacle of high society into a life of poverty and shame. Her reputation in Savannah, Georgia has been irreversibly tarnished. Forced into menial labor, she dreams of escaping the cruel fate that has befallen her. Rebecca never dreamed she’d answer a mail-order-bride advertisement, but it seems like her best option for creating a better life for herself. Jake Henderson owns the saloon in Dawson, Montana. Running the Watering Hole has been his life’s work, but it doesn’t keep him from being lonely. With no serious prospects for marriage available, Jake resorts to putting out an ad for a bride. Surely there has to be someone out there for him. Dawson isn’t what Rebecca had bargained for when she answered Jake’s ad. Neither is Jake or the Watering Hole. The handsome bar owner captivates her from the beginning, but Rebecca has a lot to learn about the way of life in Dawson. Jake isn’t sure that Rebecca is going to be able to adjust to the rowdy atmosphere of the Watering Hole, but her beauty and her gifted musical ability casts a spell on him. As Christmas nears, they’ll have to learn to compromise and listen to each other or be trapped in a loveless marriage. In the season of joy and good will, can they find it their hearts to let go of their pride and reach out to one another again? Westward Sunrise Abby Porter is energetic and vivacious. She dreams of finding the perfect man, but knows she won’t find him in Wabasha, Minnesota. Upon answering an ad for a mail order bride, she starts corresponding with a man she deems perfect for her. Elliot Bradbury owns the general store in Dawson, Montana, and it captivated by Abby’s unique letters. He finds her charming, amusing, and impulsive. She’s just what he’s been looking for to help ease his loneliness. When they meet they instantly form a strong connection full of passion and romance. Things are perfect until another man enters the picture and a major conflict within Dawson threatens to drive them apart. Can their perfect romance endure outside influence or will it be shattered and their love lost?

The Devil's Gift


Laura Landon - 2017
     Jackson Rafferty, second son of the eleventh Earl of Devlin, held his dying brother in his arms and swore he’d avenge his murder. That pact made in blood led him to the back halls of Kingston Manor and the woman who would stand between him and pursuing the man Jack knew had killed his brother. Miss Jenevieve Kingston has a secret. Keeping it is the only thing keeping her father alive. When a rogue by the name of Jack Hawkins comes dangerously close to spoiling everything, Jenna forces him from her home. But not before he has worked his way into her heart. Now he’s back, proving he is not who she thought he was. But how can she trust him after weeks of deception?

The Crawfords Series: A Regency Romance Collection


Sophie Barnes - 2021
    Only he doesn't want the title. He'd rather help three spinsters fix a leaky roof. Disguised as a laborer, he falls for Mary and she returns his affection. Until she learns that he's more than he seems and that she's in danger of getting hurt.More than a RogueWith a broken engagement behind her, Emily Howard knows she's destined to be a spinster. Nevertheless, it might still be nice to learn about kissing. But when she's discovered in the arms of Griffin Crawford, she flees to save not only him but her very own heart. Because in her experience, dreams don't come true. Do they?Her Seafaring ScoundrelLady Cassandra has no desire to marry. But when Captain Devlin Crawford brings scandal to her doorstep and offers salvation, she cannot say no. Not with her daughter’s future at stake. So she decides to accept Devlin’s offer, provided he agrees to never be intimate with her. For although Cassandra is drawn to Devlin, she refuses to dishonor the memory of her one true love.If you love independent heroines and heroes willing to go to the ends of the earth for them, you'll love this series!**Note: These books were previously published individually**

Behind the Baron's Mask: A Clean Regency Romance


Penny Fairbanks - 2019
    Henry Neil, Baron of Neil, wants to spend all his days writing. After sharing a romantic dance at a masquerade, will fate bring them back together? Cecilia is entering her third Season, refusing to give up the hope that her true love is still out there. Emboldened by her mask, Cecilia puts on a spectacular pianoforte performance at an illustrious masquerade. She is whisked away to the dance floor by the most incredible man she’s ever met—a fellow passionate artist. Unfortunately, he slips out of reach before she can learn his name. Instead, she must accompany the cold and aloof Lord Neil through London as his best friend courts her sister. Henry just wants to stay at home writing his beloved adventure novels. But when his best friend drags him to the annual welcome masquerade, Henry dances with an incredibly talented pianoforte player. She surprises him with her artistic insights, but they part without exchanging identities. And much to Henry’s dismay, his friend decides to court a beautiful young lady—and asks Henry to accompany them with her older sister, Miss Cecilia Richards. Can Cecilia and Henry learn that they have far more in common than they think? Will they realize that they could be each other’s missing pieces?

The Duke's Winter Promise


Isabella Thorne - 2019
    More than anything, he did not wish for word of it to reach Emily’s ears. When the truth surfaces, Alexander may lose the only woman he's ever loved. Miss Emily Ingram is a lady. At least she has the appearance of one. Secretly, Emily would much rather return to the days of her childhood raising trouble with her wild brother and his best friend, the handsome Alexander. Emily's mother, the Viscountess of Kentleworth has other ideas. Emily is given the Christmas holiday to choose between her London suitors. Alexander may be a duke, but he is not a proper gentleman. He fears he is too late to win the lady’s affection. He only has until the New Year to discover Emily’s feelings. As the holiday festivities begin, an event from his past may sever their childhood friendship and extinguish any chance at love between them. Will the duke’s secret destroy the love he hoped to kindle in her very proper heart? Will practical and determined Emily overcome what keeps them apart? One can hope for a Christmas miracle. After all even the coldest heart can melt. A sweet Christmas romance about growing up, overcoming the past and learning to love. Get your copy today! Though part of a series, all of Isabella Thorne’s novels are standalone stories, and can be read in any order. Fans of Grace Burrowes, Georgette Heyer and Christi Caldwell will enjoy all of Isabella Thorne’s classic sweet regency romance books. The Ladies of the North The Duke’s Winter Promise (Prequel) - Isabella Thorne’s Christmas new release 2019 The Ladies of Bath The Duke’s Daughter The Baron in Bath The Deceptive Earl Winning Lady Jane (Prequel) The Hawthorne Sisters The Forbidden Valentine The Baggington Sisters The Countess and the Baron Almost Promised The Healing Heart The Lady to Match a Rogue Nettlefold Chronicles Novellas Not Quite a Lady Not Quite a Knight Stitched in Love Other Novels by Isabella Thorne The Mad Heiress and the Duke The Duke’s Wicked Wager Follow Isabella Thorne on Amazon, Facebook and Bookbub. SIGN UP for her newsletter to be notified of the debut of Isabella Thorne's next novel.

Millie


AnneMarie Brear - 2019
    Millie tries to help, but Jeremy grows more distant and befriends a homeless, wounded ex-soldier, Monty, who has secrets...As Millie’s distrust of Monty grows, a rift is created between her and Jeremy and when he leaves to receive hospital treatment, she is left feeling abandoned. When her family is dealt a terrible loss, it is Millie who must be the strongest. However, just when she feels things couldn’t become worse, she suffers her own heartbreaking tragedy.Grieving and alone, Millie wonders if her marriage can ever be mended, but she can’t give up without a fight.Will a new home for her and Jeremy in a foreign country be the answer, or will the events of the past destroy everything she wished for?

Alice's Journey West: Finding Her Way (Clean Pioneer Western Story Book 2)


Katherine St. Clair - 2018
    Will she finally find what she is looking for? The American Civil war has torn Alice Cleary’s family apart, and cast the children amongst what friends and relations would have them. And though Alice appreciates the home she and her younger brother, Will, have had with her aunt and uncle, when they pressure her to marry an older man for their benefit, she flees to the sanctuary of the church. There, sister Agnes helps to set Alice’s feet on a path that will lead her across the country. In Kansas, Will finds a place on their sister Louisa’s farm, but times are hard and as much as she craves the security of her own people, there is no place for Alice. Her journey lies onward, in the wilds of New Mexico. After navigating risk and peril, Alice comes into her own. She knows her own mind – and her own heart. But when it is broken, will Alice have the strength and courage to remain true to herself?

Romancing the Emotional Duke: A Historical Regency Romance Book


Sally Forbes - 2020
    She has had two failed London Seasons and is nearing spinster age. When she hears of her father’s plans for her to marry the Viscount of Halsbrook she fears that she will spend the rest of her days consigned to a loveless marriage. A chance encounter with two unruly children causes Anne to cross paths with their handsome father. Will, she finally find love, or will the dark figure lurking in the shadows threaten her last chance of happiness?Duncan Wentworth, The Duke of Brondesbury, tragically lost his wife three years ago. He lives a reclusive life in the countryside with his twins Chloe and Marcus. When his mother asks him to spend Christmastide in London with his family, an unexpected run-in with Anne and their blossoming romance that follows leave him wondering if it’s time to finally let go of his past.Will they be able to overcome the forces pulling them apart and find love during this Christmas season?