From New York Times bestselling author Marie Force comes a glittering tale of star-crossed romance set amid the lavish mansions and decadent lifestyles of early 20th century Newport, Rhode Island. But even in an age of great fortune, the heart has its own idea of true riches . . . Wealthy American industrialist Aubrey Nelson has invited the Duke and Duchess of Westbrook to visit his family’s … Westbrook to visit his family’s Newport seaside “cottage” for the summer. With his parents’ departure from New York delayed, Aubrey’s mother sends him ahead to oversee preparations for their guests. But when he arrives, he’s surprised to find the house and staff in disarray . . .
With much to do and little time, Aubrey comes to rely on the housekeeper, a lovely young Irish woman named Maeve Brown. And when he also finds himself confiding in Maeve about more personal matters, he tells himself it’s merely their close proximity that draws him to the compassionate, hard-working beauty. Yet when he suspects Maeve is in danger, Aubrey realizes his feelings for her have grown much deeper than they should have. For what will his mother, who dreams of a society match for her son, have to say when she arrives to discover he’s lost his heart to a girl of the working class?
Praise for Duchess by Deception
“Force has crafted a masterpiece with the perfect amount of romance.”
—Publishers Weekly, STARRED REVIEW
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A glittering tale of star-crossed romance set amid the lavish mansions and decadent lifestyles of early 20th century Newport, RI. But even in an age of great fortune, the heart has its own idea of true riches…
Having read this author before but not in this genre I found this to pick my curiosity. I soon found that I am given a fine romance that is set in a romantic time as it was. This is the story of Aubrey and Maeve with what grows out of this when they meet.
The times give you a delightful story as it grows from what was to be something simple turns into danger and drama feelings also go in a direction that we are eager to see where it leads. Sadly though I missed the first one that would of filled me in on some of the characters but it was still good reading. You fall for this one from start to finish.
Deceived by Desire by Marie Force is book Two in the Gilded Series. This is the story of Aubrey Nelson and Maeve Brown. I have read the previous book but feel you can make this a standalone book if you wish to do so. Aubrey has taken on the task of getting the family “cottage” ready for the Duke and Duchess visit. Aubrey tries to act like the help but he is soon found out. But he becomes taken with Maeve who is the housekeeper there. Aubrey starts to feel there is move to Maeve than she lets on. Maeve had to escape a bad situation that lead to her coming here for her freedom. Of course she tries to keep her past in the past but nothing every stays there long.
Enjoyed their story.
From the first second Aubrey saw Maeve he knew he had to have her. Maeve knows she is just the housekeeper and won’t make things easy for Aubrey. When her past finally catches up to her Aubrey suggests marriage to keep her safe. Once they are married however there may be greater dangers to their life than Maeves past. This book had characters that I loved, along with a fast pace. True to Marie Force books this one was just as enjoyable as all the others I have read.
Reading a Marie Force book is an undeniable pleasure. Her prose is easy to read, her plots riveting, her characters charming except for her perfectly hateful villains, and there’s just the right amount of sexy times. In this one, we have two characters who feel instant chemistry; one is all for acting on the attraction, the other is reticent and reluctant. The differences between social and economical classes is strong and evident in this period romance and there is a slow burn that is just plain delicious!
This author’s books are usually contemporary; in this foray into historical romance, Marie Force changed her voice, it’s more elegant, subtle, formal. I found that the conversations in this book, especially the ones between Aubrey and Maeve, were sublimely lovely, some very funny and witty. I loved the imagery she presents about Newport and it raised in me the desire to visit and tour the historical mansions there.
In this book we meet again the Duke and Duchess of Westwood, from the previous book. Also we meet again with Simon, Madeline and Justin. They are all to have a fun and pretentious summer in Newport, where Aubrey’s mother wants to lord it over the Newport society showing off her important guests. Little does she know that Aubrey’s friends are good people and the only haughty thing about them is their titles. Mrs. Nelson is a cold, heartless witch who comes from British aristocracy and disdains Americans and their new rich pretensions. She wishes for Aubrey to marry well for the sake of her social standing and the family’s standing and when she finds that he’s fallen for an Irish housekeeper, all hell breaks lose.
The story was so entertaining and the characters so lovely (with one notable exception), the historical facts interesting, and the pace outstanding. It’s smooth sailing and a breezy read that’s perfect for a stormy day like I had yesterday waiting for the Dorian hurricane that never arrived.
This book was awesome, Marie Force can write any type of book and I would read it ! She makes you feel like you are one of the characters. I was fortunate enough to visit these properties while in Rhode Island recently and that just made it better knowing which places she was referring to ! Aubrey and Maeve were made for each other and catching up with Derek and Catherine as well as the others was great ! Especially loved the authors note in the back of the book . I loved knowing some of her family history made it into the book !! Great read !!
Marie Force delivers a new historical romance full of swoons: “A glittering tale of star-crossed romance set amid the lavish mansions and decadent lifestyles of early 20th century Newport, RI. But even in an age of great fortune, the heart has its own idea of true riches…”
I love a great historical! Marie Force writing in my fave subgenre? Yes, please! It’s a glittering tale of star-crossed romance set amid the lavish mansions and decadent lifestyles of early 20th century Newport, RI. But even in an age of great fortune, the heart has its own idea of true riches.
Once I had finished Duchess by Deception; I was anxiously awaiting Deceived by Desire. This author did not disappoint. Once I started the book I could not put it down until I had read the last word. This is Aubrey and Maeve’s story. Every woman wants to be loved as Aubrey loves Maeve. Unfortunately Maeve has a complicated and troubled past. She is always on edge and waiting for the other shoe drop.
When Aubrey learns that Maeve may be in danger he comes up with the perfect solution. It is one that he knows will create havoc in his family in particular with his mother. He tells Maeve that his love is strong enough to conquer anything that comes their way. He will always be by her side to protect her. Aubrey and Maeve’s love story is one that will bring a smile to your face but there will also be times you will shed some tears. This story is full of love and also suspense and I loved every bit of it.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Close freindships and romance as I expect from Marie Force. She is always a great read.The book stands alone but if you haven’t read Duchess by Deception (#1) I urge you to read that also you won’t be diappointed
Deceived by Desire is the second book in Marie Force’s Gilded series. It’s a historical romance story. Now, I’m not a huge historical romance fan, but I AM a Marie Force fan, so I took the plunge with this one and with the first book, Duchess by Deception. I rather liked Duchess by Deception (despite my aversion to historical romance in general), but I actually liked Deceived by Desire even more…much to my surprise!
NICUnurse’s Rating: This book, while definitely a fictional story, was chock full of very interesting tidbits. I love reading about history and the way Marie wove these history lessons throughout the story was fantastic. (My history teachers could use some lessons!) Deceived by Desire also touched on spousal abuse, which we all know is a tough topic to digest. While I’m sure it wasn’t spoken of in polite circles at the time, it definitely made for an interesting back story for our heroine. All in all, I spent a very pleasant few hours in early 20th century New England and would do it again…at least for Marie Force! I give Deceived by Desire by Marie Force 4.5 stars! And if you DO happen to be one of the many people out there who LOVE historical romance, I think you’ll find this one amongst your favorites!
Although I normally read contemporary novels, the second book in this series is just as delightful as the first (of course I read and love everything that Ms. Force writes). When Aubrey Nelson arrives at the family home to make sure it is ready for his family and the Duke and Duchess of Westbrook (from the first book) he is astonished to find the house in complete chaos. The previous staff, due to their dislike of his mother, left the house open for the winter conditions and animals to enjoy. Maeve Brown, the newly hired Irish housekeeper, is a shock to him as he is immediately attracted to her, her beauty and her hard-working manner. She is determined, with little help, to get the house ready. Aubrey pitches in to help while knowing that his family (mother) will be furious if he should pursue his feelings for Maeve…but he can’t help himself. When a dark secret from Maeve’s past puts her in danger, he suggests marriage to protect her as he realizes that he is falling in love with her. Great, strong characters and story with updates on the characters from the first book. I received an advance review copy at no cost and without obligation for an honest review. (by paytonpuppy)
A glittering tale of star-crossed romance set amid the lavish mansions and decadent lifestyles of early 20th century Newport, RI. But even in an age of great fortune, the heart has its own idea of true riches…
OMGoodness! This is a steamy must read!! Get it!
Marie Force has absolutely captured me in this gorgeous tale of star-crossed lovers. As far as historicals go, this one is one of my favorite and so highly recommended!
A glittering tale of star-crossed romance set amid the lavish mansions and decadent lifestyles of early 20th century Newport, RI. But even in an age of great fortune, the heart has its own idea of true riches…
Something new from Marie Force! A glittering tale of star-crossed romance set amid the lavish mansions and decadent lifestyles of early 20th century Newport, RI. But even in an age of great fortune, the heart has its own idea of true riches…
A glittering tale of star-crossed romance set amid the lavish mansions and decadent lifestyles of early 20th century Newport, RI. But even in an age of great fortune, the heart has its own idea of true riches…
I genuinely feel like there’s no romance Marie Force is incapable of writing. She’s got such a wide range – something for everyone!
This story is the second in her Gilded series, which is Regency Romance. We follow Aubrey and Maeve – a wealthy businessman and the housekeeper – through a forbidden friendship that blossoms into an even more taboo romance. Nothing is ever as simple as ‘they were mean for each other, fell in love and everyone was happy’ of course. While a common trope, it always feels new again when done right, and Marie nailed it!
Always a recommend for her!
The early 20th century was a fascinating time in history with so many advancements taking place. But the class differences were still there and Marie Force takes us into the romance that happens between a wealthy American and the housekeeper of his family’s seaside cottage. Set at the shore in Newport, the hero Aubrey goes ahead to the cottage to make sure everything is ready for so the important guest soon to arrive,
He finds much more than a house in upheavel though.. The lovely Irish housekeeper, Maeve Brown. They form a friendship and there is a great spark between them that starts them on a journey. Romance, suspense, a little mystery and a dragon of mother that is best to stay away from if possible!
Once I started I could not put is down and I look forward to the next in this wonderful series!
This one kept me up all night. Love this book!!
Set during the 20th century where many men had the opportunity to become wealthy and influential, Aubrey Nelson travels to Newport, RI to open his family’s home after inviting his friends from England to visit. The first person he meets is the new housekeeper, Mauve Brown. For Aubrey it’s love at first sight. Be still my heart. He is one sweet hero. He wants to marry Mauve, but there are obstacles to overcome, especially his mother. Once again I can’t tell you how much I enjoyed this book. It’s a keeper.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.