An instant USA Today bestseller A LADY OF LIGHTRefined, kind, and intelligent, Lady Iris Jordan finds herself the unlikely target of a diabolical kidnapping. Her captors are the notoriously evil Lords of Chaos. When one of the masked—and nude —Lords spirits her away to his carriage, she shoots him . . . only to find she may have been a trifle hasty. A DUKE IN DEEPEST DARKNESS Cynical, … trifle hasty.
A DUKE IN DEEPEST DARKNESS
Cynical, scarred, and brooding, Raphael de Chartres, the Duke of Dyemore, has made it his personal mission to infiltrate the Lords of Chaos and destroy them. Rescuing Lady Jordan was never in his plans. But now with the Lords out to kill them both, he has but one choice: marry the lady in order to keep her safe.
CAUGHT IN A WEB OF DANGER . . . AND DESIRE
Much to Raphael’s irritation, Iris insists on being the sort of duchess who involves herself in his life—and bed. Soon he’s drawn both to her quick wit and her fiery passion. But when Iris discovers that Raphael’s past may be even more dangerous than the present, she falters. Is their love strong enough to withstand not only the Lords of Chaos but also Raphael’s own demons?more
Iris and Raphael are just so perfect for each other.
An entertaining story, but sad as it is the last of my beloved Maiden Lane series by a great writer. Elizabeth Hoyt must do tons of research because you truly feel like you know this world of late 18th century England and its culture and morals. This finishes the thread running through last three books as to who and what are the Lords of Chaos. This debauched group of nobility has caused so much mayhem to women and children that the king finally decides it must be destroyed. The last three books reveal a little more info about this secret group while creating unique but deeply flawed heroes who find their unlikely love matches who might be just what they need. You can read any one of the books in the series and have a very satisfying read, but I read in order, and think that it is easier to keep track of ancillary characters mentioned occasionally from earlier books and as they show up in later books.
Raphael, the Duke of Dyemore is one of the most tortured heroes I have ever read, but beneath the scars and the pain is a man with a huge capacity for love. His mission is to destroy the Lords of Chaos, the depraved group of men that was lead by his father until his recent death. Raphael fled England and his father and went to live with his mother’s family in Corsica at the age of twelve and hasn’t returned since. But now that his father is gone and Raphael is the new Duke, he is home to take his rightful place and to bring down the LoC.
Lady Iris Jordan is kidnapped from her carriage on her way home from Alf & Hugh’s wedding and kept captive by the LoC as revenge against Hugh (the Duke of Kyle) for his attack on them in the previous book (The Duke of Pleasure, Maiden Lane #11). So when Iris is taken to the revel and announces that they have taken the wrong woman, a very naked man in a wolf mask claims her as his prize. The leader of the LoC grants the wolf the right to woman, but tells him to kill her in the morning.
When Iris is thrown into the wolf’s carriage, she frantically looks for a weapon while he is speaking to his men, finding a gun she shoots the wolf as he enters the carriage. This is when she learns that the wolf is actually Raphael, the mysterious scarred man she met and danced with at a ball a few months ago and rather than planning on ravishing her, he was trying to save her.
Raphael had planned to send Iris to London, but now that he is wounded and he realizes that she is not married to Hugh, he decides the best way to keep her safe is to marry her himself. At first Iris resists, but then agrees that marriage is necessary. They marry in a brief ceremony before Raphael passes out from his wounds. Iris spends the next couple of days nursing Raphael and trying to learn more about her new husband’s past – she thinks she has an idea of what happened, but no one, especially Raphael is willing to give her the whole story. Iris wants answers and she wants a true marriage with Raphael. Her first marriage was not happy and she has no desire to repeat that fiasco with Raphael, but much to her dismay, he intends to keep her close, but in name only.
When the LoC come calling and learn that Iris is not only alive, but married to Raphael, he knows he must get her to London. They set out almost immediately and Iris decides to use the time to make her new husband come around to her way of thinking. But Raphael is firm in his convictions and Iris wonders if the problem is her – even as she ponders this, she makes a discovery that makes it clear that desire is not the problem. She goes to confront Raphael and stumbles upon an ambush. When the attack is over they spend the night together and Iris believes that they have turned a page and will be able to have a real marriage, but the next morning Raphael is more remote than ever.
They return to London and slowly grow closer until Raphael finally tells her the truth of his scars and the reason he is out to bring down the LoC. Iris is horrified by Raphael’s tale (an rightly so) but it only makes her realize how much she cares for him and how much he needs that love and acceptance. They share an incredible night of passion and finally consummate their marriage, Iris believes that they are finally going to have a real marriage but the next morning Raphael is more remote than ever and tells her that their night will never be repeated.
When the LoC kidnap Iris again and force a confrontation with Raphael, he knows that he loves her and will do whatever he can to make her happy, even if that means letting her go.
This was an amazing story, it was well written, flowed perfectly, had some truly horrific, dark moments, some steamy love scenes, lots of secrets, lots of pain and sorrow, some sweet moments and finally a well deserved HEA. I loved this book and would have no problem recommending it, but I would strongly suggest that you read the Duke of Sin (book 10) and the Duke of Pleasure (book 11) before reading this installment.
I am sorry to see this series end but I can’t wait to see what Elizabeth Hoyt comes up with next!
*I am voluntarily leaving a review of an eARC*
A good finale to the Maiden Lane series. The hero is a bit dark for me, but Lady Iris is a strong counterpoint to his less than civilized ways.
I enjoy EH’s book
Hoyt’s romances are always entertaining!
Ms. Hoyt writes stories that are far from mundane, with interesting characters and actual plots. This book does not disappoint.
Well, this is the last book I’ve read in the Maiden Lane series and I can’t recommend this historical romance series enough! These books are absolutely addictive and filled with heartstopping action that will keep you glued to the edge of your seat while you take in the swoonyworthy men that Elizabeth Hoyt creates for us to enjoy. They ladies who love them are strong and ahead of their times and it’s fun to watch them in action.
There are plenty of steamy scenes to light up your kindle and beloved characters from previous books in the series are often along for the ride which is always an added bonus for me. Each book was special in it’s own way and I could never pick a favorite. Did you see this cover? Wow, Raphael, Duke of Dyemore is someone who will stay in your heart for a long time. I loved this gorgeous man with his broody, sexiness and Iris was the perfect match for him as he tries his best to save and protect her. Protect her from what, you ask? Well, read this book along with the entire series and find out for yourself why this is one if my all time favorite historical romance series of all.
Recommend!
I truly enjoyed this book which had an interesting story with a tortured hero. There was suspense, romance, and wonderful characters . Recommend it!
Audio-book: Narrator – Ashford McNab
What can I say about this narrator and her excellent performance on not just this book, but every book in this series that she has performed? I’m not sure there is a better person with a more perfect talent than Ms. McNab to bring these characters to life in such a moving and dramatic style.
I wasn’t exactly expecting this one. Iris took me a bit by surprise as did Raphael. Their story was definitely one that moved me, made my stomach twist and kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time. I was so invested in this story and I’m finding myself loving this series more and more the further into them I’ve gone.
I will read anything with Elizabeth Hoyt’s name on it.
I would say if you are on the edge of reading a historical romance, then I would tell you to look no further and to start with one of Elizabeth Hoyt’s novels. She definitely knows how to write a flawlessly, historically correct romance in which it will entice you to keep reading within her Maiden Lane series.
I hope this series is not the end to Elizabeth Hoyt’s Maiden Lane series with her twelfth edition of Duke of Desire. I believe this novel had it all; action, lustful chemistry and a symbolic beast that is looking for his light to embody him.
Duke of Desire does have a heavier tone to its storyline so I would warn readers that if you have a hard time with child abuse (physical/emotional) then maybe this story might not be for you. Ms. Hoyt does a fantastic writing job of bringing such detail to encapture you to make you see the whole picture into Raphael’s life as well as paint the perfect picture on why he is the broody controlled man he is.
Duke of Dyemore, Raphael de Chartres has had one heck of a upbringing. Brought up in the Lord of Chaos by his father who was once their leader, but then left with the physical and emotional scars is now back, determined to dismantle the ruthless organization. Infiltrated as one of their own, he stumbles upon Lady Iris Jordan, someone whom he has never forgotten, but to make it seem he will do diligence and carry out the harsh treatment he must elicit another course of action.
As Lady Iris is kidnapped by the abusive Lord of Chaos, she can’t tell if Raphael is someone whom she can trust. She sees light in his darkness and starts to succumb to his charm. When he elicits a plan to free them both will she abide? But will his protection be enough for her against the LOC?
My emotions were all over the place with Raphael. I hurt for him and his past in what he had to endure, but then when Iris enters the picture I rejoiced for the happiness that would eventually take place. Ms. Hoyt builds up the story in an interesting way in that the physical chemistry between the Duke and Iris didn’t come until the end and honestly, I wish it came a little sooner, but overall, this was an enjoyable story. A solid 4 stars for the Lady who brings the light to the Duke!
Another winter in a long series of winners. Thoroughly enjoyed every page.
Wow! A wildly adventurous Georgian historical romance.
5 stars
From the very first page, this novel was exhilarating! If I’d had any idea that this Maiden Lane series was this entertaining and suspenseful with such vivid characters, I would have started reading it years ago. This is my first Elizabeth Hoyt book that I have read, but I can’t wait to read her other books. I am so happy that I have found a new-to-me historical romance author of such great talent and writing skills. I can only adequately compare the edge-of-my-seat suspense, action, and sensuality in this “Duke of Desire” book to Kresley Cole’s Immortals After Dark series, which is my favorite paranormal romance series. Coming from me, that is very high praise. I recommend this book to everyone who likes action and suspense with their romance.
I received a free advanced reading copy from the author, and I voluntarily wrote this honest review.
DUKE OF DESIRE is the twelfth installment in Elizabeth Hoyt’s adult MAIDEN LANE historical romance series. This is the Duke of Dyemore Raphael de Chartres, and Lady Iris Jordan’s story line. DUKE OF DESIRE can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty . Any important information from previous installments is revealed where necessary. We were first introduced to our heroine in book eleven DUKE OF PLEASURE. Iris is Hugh Fitzroy’s sister.
NOTE: DUKE OF DESIRE contains references to pedophilia, rape, abuse and torture, and may not be suitable for all readers.
Told from several third person perspectives DUKE OF DESIRE is a story line that focuses on a dark secret within the notable society of Georgian England. Kidnapped just days after her brother’s marriage to Alf, Lady Iris Jordan comes face to face with the evil that permeates the rich and famous-the Lords of Chaos- a group of sick, twisted and perverted aristocratic men who use their power and position to kidnap and destroy the innocent and young. Enter Raphael de Chartres, the Duke of Dyemore, Iris’s savior, and the man with whom our heroine will fall in love. What ensues is the building romance between Iris and Raphael, and the potential fall-out as Raphael seeks revenge against the Lords of Chaos for destroying his life, and the lives of so many others.
DUKE OF DESIRE is a darker story line that follows the abduction and rescue of our story line heroine, and the subsequent search for the leader of the Lords of Chaos. Raphael is the reluctant Duke of Dyemore but with his father’s death, Raphael assumes more than his rightful place as Duke but that of his father’s membership and mantle within the group that destroyed Raphael’s life.
Iris never thought of herself as a potential target until the Lords of Chaos kidnapped our heroine in a plot against her newly betrothed brother. Her would-be rescuer is familiar; possibly evil but definitely the man with whom Iris would fall in love. Raphael wants nothing to do with consummating his marriage while our heroine struggles to seduce a man who isn’t willing to play along. The $ex scenes are intimate although Raphael battles too many demons, and memories from his past making for some heartbreaking moments between our newly married couple.
DUKE OF DESIRE is an emotional read about one man’s struggle to move on from the past. Raphael’s need for revenge is all consuming to the point of suicidal actions that could very well end his life, as well as the life of the woman with whom he is falling in love. The premise is sensitive, dramatic and tragic; the characters are broken, strong, passionate and intense; the romance suffers with one man’s inability to let go of the past.
My only concern is the cover image that does not match our hero’s horrific physical scars.
Refined, kind, and intelligent, Lady Iris Jordan finds herself the unlikely target of a diabolical kidnapping by the notoriously evil Lords of Chaos. When one of the masked-and nude Lords spirits her away to his carriage, she shoots him only to find she may have been a trifle hasty.
Cynical, scarred, and brooding, Raphael de Chartres, the Duke of Dyemore, has made it his personal mission to infiltrate the Lords of Chaos and destroy them. Rescuing Lady Jordan was never in his plans. However with the Lords out to kill them both, he has but one choice: marry the lady in order to keep her safe.
Much to Raphael’s irritation, Iris insists on being the sort of duchess who involves herself in his life-and bed. Soon he’s drawn both to her quick wit and her fiery passion.
The final book in the series SOB!! A brilliant series & I’m sad that it’s ended. This could be read as a stand alone book but it’s true impact, I feel, is if it’s read as the conclusion to the series.
I felt lukewarm towards Iris at the start of the book but my view was clouded by my knowledge of her from the previous book. Raphael was dark, broody & although scarred a very worthy hero. She was the light to his darkness & gradually brought him into the light. The whole series is definitely a keeper & this is a worthy conclusion. I look forward to the authors next project
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
This is one of the darkest books in the Maiden Lane series, since it centers around destroying the Lords of Chaos and dealing with the effects of that evil secret society on all those it has touched. Raphael, the Duke of Dyemore, has pledged to hunt down the members of the Lords of Chaos and put an end to their revels. He knows exactly what they are capable of since he grew up as part of the society. He’s hoping to infiltrate the current society and learn the identity of the leader, but when he sees the Lords have kidnapped Lady Iris Jordan, he can’t let them harm her.
Iris has no idea why she’s been kidnapped, but she wants to make every effort to escape. When one of the mysterious Lords claims her as his own and throws her in his carriage, she has no way of knowing he’s actually trying to help her. So when she finds a pistol in the carriage, she shoots him. Too late, she realizes he may be her only hope. Even though she still doesn’t quite trust him, she goes along with his plan to marry her and offer her protection. Now she has to work to save Raphael’s life. Since she’s already been widowed once, she’d rather not lose another husband. And even though this marriage starts off in a most unusual way, Iris hopes that it can be a real marriage with a family like she has always wanted.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story. The connection between Raphael and Iris was so complex–at times sweet and tender, but at other times fiery and passionate. I liked how the author used the themes of light and darkness, with Iris bringing light into Raphael’s tortured dark soul. There was plenty of action, adventure, and intrigue to go along with the sizzling romance. Since a good part of the story was set in a remote estate with a slightly crumbling abbey, the atmosphere was more like a Gothic romance. I loved the descriptions of the abbey and its grounds, as well as the journey to London, the inns along the way, and the mansion in the city.
While I’m sad that this is the last Maiden Lane novel, this story provided a satisfying ending to the Lords of Chaos storyline. Raphael and Iris may be one of my favorite Maiden Lane couples!
WARNING:
There is discussion of sexual abuse in this book, so be warned if that is something you don’t want to read about.