A NYT bestselling author kicks off a new Regency series of “irresistible romance and a family of delightful scoundrels” as a woman looking to recover a stolen painting accidentally kidnaps a duke instead. (Eloisa James) Chloe Wynchester is completely forgettable — a curse that gives her the ability to blend into any crowd. When the only father she’s ever known makes a dying wish for his adopted … known makes a dying wish for his adopted family of orphans to recover a missing painting, she’s the first one her siblings turn to for stealing it back. No one expects that in doing so, she’ll also abduct a handsome duke.
Lawrence Gosling, the Duke of Faircliffe, is tortured by his father’s mistakes. To repair his estate’s ruined reputation, he must wed a highborn heiress. Yet when he finds himself in a carriage being driven hell-for-leather down the cobblestone streets of London by a beautiful woman who refuses to heed his commands, he fears his heart is hers. But how can he sacrifice his family’s legacy to follow true love?
“Erica Ridley is a delight!” –Julia Quinn, New York Times bestselling author of the Bridgerton series
more
Chloe Wynchester’s best skill is her ability to blend in and go unnoticed in any crowd, but this also means most people find her completely forgettable. When a beloved painting is stolen from their home, she and her adoptive siblings know Chloe’s skills are the ones needed to retrieve it. Things don’t go quite as planned, however, and she winds up kidnapping a handsome duke along with the painting.
Lawrence Gosling, the Duke of Faircliffe, has spent his life trying to live down his father’s terrible reputation by keeping his own spotless. Thanks to his father’s profligate tendencies, Lawrence is buried under a mountain of debt and the only way out he can see is marriage to an heiress. But when he finds himself owing favors to a carriage stealing termagant, she’s soon well on her way to stealing his heart as well. The more time they spend together, the more Lawrence wants to be with her permanently, but he knows he can’t possibly sacrifice his family legacy, or the well-being of those dependent on him, to follow his heart.
This story was much more light-hearted and whimsical than I’d initially anticipated but I found it rather refreshing. I loved the dynamic and open acceptance among the Wynchester siblings. It took Lawrence a bit too long to come to his senses for my liking, but his longing for love and companionship made him likeable despite his stuffy nature and continued insistence upon emphasizing appearances. Really, that made it all the more satisfying when he finally learned to make his own rules. The time Chloe and Lawrence spent getting to know one another on a different level than they’d ever allowed anyone else before was lovely and I enjoyed their banter. This was a strong start to what promises to be a fun new series full of eccentric adoptive siblings. If you’re looking for a rather fresh spin on Regency romps, this is it.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspot.com/2021/01/arc-review-of-duke-heist-by-erica-ridley.html
The Wynchester siblings are on a mission to restore a family heirloom – a painting of Puck with 6 sprites – a painting the Wynchester siblings treasure above all else – as they view it as a family portrait of sorts. Purchased years ago, from the Duke of Faircliffe, it was the first thing they bought as a “family”. Chloe is one of the six children adopted by Baron Vanderbean “Bean”. But 8 months ago, the duke wanted it back and when they refused, he stole it – leaving a hideous Angel vase in its place, then to complicate matters, the duke died days later and his son, the new duke refused to see Bean and ignored all attempts to contact him. Sadly, Bean himself died a few weeks later and it seemed as if the painting was gone for good. But recently the siblings have learned that the new Duke is courting a Miss Philippa York and is planning on giving the painting to her as a courting gift.
Each of the six siblings has a “talent”, Bean loved each of the children and encouraged them to perfect and use those talents. He also and they mean to use those talents to restore the painting to its rightful place, even if they have to steal it! Chloe’s talent is the ability to go unnoticed, she is selected to go to the York’s house and swap out their painting with a forged painting created by their sister Marjorie. A mission she glad accepts for the family. Chloe forms a plan and attends Miss York’s book club meeting ready to make the exchange, she thinks she is prepared for every possible scenario – but what she didn’t anticipate is the duke!
Lawrence Gosling, the new Duke of Faircliffe has inherited a bankrupt estate and needs to marry for money as soon as possible, which is why he needs to impress Miss York. Her dowry is massive and enables him to save his dukedom from ruin. He arrives and presents the painting to a very unimpressed Miss York. When they all go to partake in refreshments, Chloe sets her plan in motion, exchanging the paintings and bolting from the house to her waiting carriage – which she drives herself when her brother is nowhere to be found, she sets out and then hears a voice from inside the carriage – Faircliffe! She is shocked, how did she end up abducting the duke? She manages to ditch him, but neither of them will be able to forget the encounter. Especially as she needs to return his Angel vase and keep him from learning the truth about the Baron’s heir.
This was a well-written, unique, and fun story. I really enjoyed the interaction between Faircliffe and Chloe, as well as the bond between the siblings. The plot of the story is a bit over the top and somewhat flamboyant and there is a lot of “setup” for future books, but in general it was fun without being fluffy and light without being silly. The book is chocked full of secrets, deception, surprises, wonderful secondary characters, warm love scenes, emotion, and of course a HEA. This is the first book in a series that promises to be anything but your typical historical romance read. I am happy to recommend this title as I really enjoyed this book and am eagerly awaiting the next installment!
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by NetGalley and the publisher. *
I Loved It! The Wynchester family is a group of six orphans adopted by Baron Vanderbean (aka Bean) and they help those in need. In the prequel, The Governess Gambit, a painting is stolen and a promise is made to retrieve the painting. Chloe and her siblings, The Wild Wynchesters, decide to steal back the painting and so starts this lighthearted romp. “Great-Aunt Wynchester” said the most hilarious and outlandish things that you can’t help but laugh over her grumblings. The Duke Heist is well-written and heartwarming with each and every character well developed, you feel every emotion that they are feeling throughout their story and each and everyone of them are head-strong individuals who become embedded in your heart, with witty banter and one zany plot. The Wild Wynchesters will bring laughter, tears, secrets to be told, twist and turns, intense emotions from despair and grief to love and sweet ecstasy but most importantly…the meaning of what family love means and the strength to face overwhelming odds together. Erica Ridley has a way of making you fall in love with her characters and she leaves you waiting for the next in the series!
An absolute wonderful tale of a family of seven. Six orphans and the man who adopted them. Each child has a special gift. In this story, their dad has died and they are older. They are not really accepted by the ton. Chole has the gift of never being remembered. She melts into the background.
Tommy (Thomasina) is great with disguises while Marjorie is an extraordinary painter. Graham’s gift is acrobatics and trick riding. Jacob has a gift with animals. Elizabeth can project her voice anywhere and it will sound like the person is talking in their own voice. Their family is loving to each other, they support each other and work on projects as a group.
Lawrence Gosling, eight Duke of Faircliffe, his father died and left him so bound in debt. He needed to marry an heiress. He was looking for a wife.
The story is witty, intelligent, and thoughtful. So many things happen, paintings are gone, and vases disappear. The characters are wonderful and kind. It keeps your attention and guessing from page to page. I highly recommend this book, not only is there love but some problems that need to be solved.
I received this ARC from Net Galley and voluntarily reviewed it.
The Wynchesters, a group of orphans brought together by the Baron Vanderbean. Under his care though not related by blood, they became a family. A family encouraged by their beloved Bean to hone their unique talents. One is a master of disguise, another an animal trainer, an artist, among other useful aptitudes. ThIs extraordinary family was introduced in the novella, The Governess Gambit. Although it is not necessary to read it first, it very nicely gives the reader the Wynchester family background and sets up this book. The Duke Heist is Chloe’s story. Her talent? Being able to be forgettable! She is drab with an unremarkable face. What happens when she is finally noticed? Lawrence, the Duke of Faircliffe, is an arrogant, cold fish or is he? He definitely is on the Wynchesters’ not favored list. When he and Chloe get to know each other better, they find what you see is not necessarily all there is. I absolutely loved this book. I have read just about all of Erica Ridley’s books and this one is my very favorite. I can’t wait to see what the other Wynchesters have in store for them. I received this ebook from NetGalley for an honest review.
What a gem this book is. To fully understand ” The Wynchester’s ” you really need to read the Pre book “The Governess Gambit ” first.
This story is about a noble man who adopts six orphans. All have different skills that help the family solve problems for those who cannot pay and or unseen by the ton.
I want to be a Wynchester!! What a family, fun, loyal, witty, with lots of animals and kidding.
Chloe is looked to as somewhat being in charge, but all of them work together. She has fought being overlooked her whole life. You will feel sorry for her, laugh and cry with her too.
The ton and society shun the Wynchester’s. They are not invited to socials, balls or called on by others.
Lawrence, The Duke of Faircliffe is very straight laced and his reputation is spotless. All the ton mamas would love for their daughters to marry him. He has a plan to save the dukedom from all the losses his drunken father did. All he needs is a Lady with a Hugh dowry to marry him.
No two people could be more opposites than Lawrence and Chloe. Their romance is sigh worthy.
Both have so much they hid from the everyone.
With the wonderful characters, the cute and skilled animals along with a family of misfits whose love is over the top.
I can’t say too much more or it will ruin the story. This book needs to be read by any who want to escape everything going on and join a fun family.
I hope you give it try just don’t plan on doing anything till you finish it as you will not be able to put it down.
I can’t wait for the second book. With six brothers and sisters I look forward to lots of books on all of them.
I received an ARC from the author and want to thank her.
This is my honest opinion and am voluntarily giving it.
I adore the Wynchesters! There is so much going on in that family and keeping them straight will basically require a family tree at some point. Chloe’s “talent” for lack of a better term is her ability to blend into a crowd and be forgettable. Imagine meeting someone multiple times, they have conversed with your spouse on several occasions (with you present) so its safe to say that you are acquainted. Then, at a dinner party you congratulate them on their promotion only to have them turn, take a solid 5 seconds to look at you and then ask “Do I know you?” Good news: You’ll probably identify with Chloe like I did.
I loved Chloe’s fierce loyalty to Bean and her siblings. My heart-ached with her simultaneous desire to be seen and also invisible. Lawrence, while he has a reputation for being cold and a bit of a superiority complex, is just a sweet cinnamon roll hero trying to undo all the damage his father wrought on the dukedom. The romance between Chloe and Lawrence was adorable, tooth-achingly sweet. A low-key enemies to lovers, their admiration for each other grows in leaps and bounds with each interaction based on solid personality and abilities rather than physical appearance (though there is a bit of that too).
As much as I enjoyed the characters, I think the story dragged on for me. I don’t typically say that the third act obstacle lacked tension and angst, but the pacing felt off and everything resolved too quickly for me.
Highlight: I loved all of the characters, but honestly my favorite has to go to Great Aunt Wynchester. I was giggling non-stop whenever she was on scene. I seriously hope she returns in the future because I need more inappropriate grumbles about the peerage.
Overall, I’m excited to see the rest of the Wynchesters get their stories! It feels like Thomasina’s (Tommy’s) story is coming next and I’m super excited that we have rumblings of an LGBTQ+ romance. This was an adorable romance, and the romantic overtures on Lawrence’s part were the sweetest. I definitely recommend if you are looking for a sweet, lower steam (2-3 shorter scenes).
*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Chloe Winchester has spent most of her life blending into the crowd, sometimes by choice, sometimes not. She’s somehow captured the eye of the Duke of Faircliffe. Lawrence, the Duke of Faircliffe, is trying to right his father’s wrongs and is on the verge of losing everything. Chloe Winchester is the exact opposite of what he needs to regain his standing in society, but there’s just something about her he can’t ignore.
The Duke Heist was such a beautiful and welcome escape from life. The pictures that Erica Ridley, I hate to say painted with her words, but really that’s what happened, were so vivid. I adore big “chosen” families as a plot point. I loved Chloe and her devotion to her siblings, and how they’re all so different. Lawrence was a good mix of frustrating and ridiculously sweet. It’s funny, warm and fuzzy, steamy, and has amazing side characters. I’m so looking forward to the rest of the series and reading Tommy and Phillipa’s story next.
Loved this book and the entire Wynchester family.. family doesn’t always mean by blood sometimes you are lucky enough to either be chosen or to pick someone that makes your life better in every way and that is what the Wynchesters have While trying to reclaim a picture Chole the oldest of the 6 siblings trick the Duke of Faircliffe into helping her find a husband, but she is really looking to get her family’s picture back. The family gives the Duke a merry run around with their very unique skills. I can’t wait for the next book…
The Duke Heist by Erica Ridley is a new series that I am here for! I recommend reading a short prequel first, The Governess Gambit to give you all the background you need for this book. Though Ridley expertly fills us in, so can be a stand alone. The series is called The Wild Wynchesters and we so much to look forward to with this big, madcap family who loves to help others.
The Duke Heist is about the Wynchester children getting back their beloved painting. They all have their parts to play, but taking the lead is the eldest Chloe. She is something of a leader, loves politics and has the talent of being forgettable.
This leads her to Lawrence Gosling, the Duke of Faircliffe. Faircliffe’s Father was known to have the painting before his death. The Winchesters have written to him and visited his home only to be turned away. Lawrence is grieving the death of his father but also trying to salvage the title from extreme debt. He has decided he must marry an heiress or a large dowery to save his estate.
There is so much action out of a screwball comedy in the novel. I also love that there is a bit of a mystery and puzzle to solve (my personal catnip!). The characters have so much layer that is built throughout the story. Chloe is so endearing and I wanted more of Lawrence! I can’t wait for the next in series!
Thank you to Netgalley for the chance to read this ARC in exchange for a fair review. #Erica Ridley #WildWynchesters #NetGalley
4/5 stars!
The heroine and her siblings wanted a beloved painting back that the hero’s late father stole from them. To get it back, the siblings enacted a plan to attend get closer to the woman who the hero was planning to ask for marriage. But after excruciating circumstances, the hero and the heroine becomes closer, even as each struggle with their own personal secrets and society norms.
Ms. Erica Ridley has such a refreshing voice. It shows in her writing style, her characters, and how the story flowed, even though I would have liked some more details in certain parts of it. I liked the integrity of the hero, the yearning of the heroine, the closeness of the siblings, and the new friendships that began in this book. I liked the couple together and as individuals, recognizing the chemistry that links them together. The premise of the next book is intriguing and I look forward to reading more Erica Ridley books.
**Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for a review copy.**
Lawrence Gosling, the Duke of Faircliffe, finds himself in desperate need of a rich wife to pull himself out of the debts his father has accumulated. After a chance encounter with one of the infamous Wynchesters, he starts wondering if he will be able to forsake his duty and instead follow his heart…
Chloe Wynchester and her rag tag bunch of siblings adopted by a wealthy baron, vow to uphold his dying wish…get back a painting that was stolen from them by the now deceased Duke of Faircliffe. Seeking out his son, Lawrence, the Wynchesters devise a plan to steal back what is theirs, but there is just one problem…the new Duke of Faircliffe is slowly stealing Chloe’s heart…
In Erica Ridley’s first installment to her The Wild Wynchesters, she’s introduced a host of interesting characters. While I’ve fully enjoyed her previous books, this one left me a little flat…I just couldn’t feel any chemistry between Lawrence and Chloe, and found myself skimming across the pages to finish. As with all stories, some characters readers connect with, and some they don’t. That being said, if you are a fan of this genre, give it a read! It could very well be your next fav!
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book that I received via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own. **
Chloe Wynchester is completely forgettable — a curse that gives her the ability to blend into any crowd. When the only father she’s ever known makes a dying wish for his adopted family of six orphans to recover a missing painting, she’s the first one her siblings turn to for stealing it back. No one expects that in doing so, she’ll also abduct a handsome duke. Lawrence Gosling, the Duke of Faircliffe, is tortured by his father’s mistakes. To repair his estate’s ruined reputation, he must wed a highborn heiress. Yet when he finds himself in a carriage being driven hell-for-leather down the cobblestone streets of London by a beautiful woman
This is the start of a new series & a lovely start it is. The Wynchesters are a refreshing delight, six orphans who are as close as siblings ,in fact they see themselves as one tight knit family & woe betide any one who hurts or maligns one of them. They each have a different speciality, which we discover as we get to know them throughout the book & I can’t wait for them each to find love. I loved Chloe from the start, she only wanted to be seen & Lawrence was the first person, outside of the family, to do this. I liked Lawrence from the start but fell in love with him after he visited a milliners. The pair were attracted from the start but this slow burn romance had them gradually falling in love as they spent more time together & came to like & respect each other. I loved every page, a totally engrossing read
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
This is the first in the new series by Ms Ridley although there is a prequel The Governess Gambit which brings all the characters together. Wow oh wow, what a wonderful read. The characters are so different, each with their own unusual talents. In this story, Miss Chloe Winchester is invisible to most people which is a talent she used often until she wants to be seen by the Duke of Faircliffe. The story grips you from page one and has you turning quickly to see what is going to happen. The emotions were a real roller coaster. I loved this book and look forward to seeing how each of the siblings get their own HEA with their unusual talents. There was a couple of sex scenes in this book which this reviewer as usual skipped. I received this book as an ARC and freely give my review.
4 1/2 STARS****
The continuing story of the orphans known as the Wynchesters trying to get their painting back from His Haughtiness the Duke of Faircliffe. When he refuses to negotiate, they decide to steal it. Working out a plan, Chloe decides to play the Duke to help her find a husband. Using guile and wit, Chole eventually realizes that Lawrence is not what he seems. If Chole can convince him to be himself, maybe he will return the painting. Adding love may be the answer. Six unique Wynchesters give a little laughter and tears for a very entertaining book. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
The Wynchesters may not look alike or have the same parents but they are a true family. Even if the ton turns their nose up at them, they don’t care as long as they have each other. Until Chloe accidently kidnaps Lawrence, the duke who constantly ignored their pleas for an audience to get back their painting. Now that he owes Chloe he helps her to get invited to ton events. As they have deep conversations, banter and hot kisses things change. Except Lawrence needs a large dowry and to be well thought of, something Chloe cannot be. Lawrence is torn berween duty and love. If only he could be more like the Wynchesters.
What a wonderful way to end 2020….by reading this book written by the very talented Erica Ridley! Such a riveting story and one that went straight to my heart. The very interesting individuals who make up the “Wynchester” family are such a lively bunch and I just adored them all. This is Chloe and Lawrence’s story.
All Chloe has ever wanted was to be “seen” by other people, she’s tired of always being dismissed or forgotten as no one of particular interest. When she catches Lawrence’s eye, she is overwhelmed that he actually notices her!!! Unfortunately, Lawrence is a Duke and needs to marry a lady with a large dowry and of social standing. Everything Chloe is not. Can he accept her for who she is or will he ignore love for duty…that is the question!!!
Well written with lots of humour, some angst, passion and daring to be different! I have to mention Tommy when she acts as Chloe’s great aunt….she’s absolutely hilarious:)
I received an ARC of this book via NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
With the exception of her family, people find Chloe Wynchester forgettable which is fine when she and her siblings are on one of their adventurous missions but less flattering in social situations. Trying to speak with the Duke of Faircliffe, who she has long admired, is particularly galling when he looks straight through her. If the Duke won’t listen to any of the Wynchester’s they’ll just have to steal their painting back. In so doing she unexpectedly abducts the Duke himself and suddenly she is no longer invisible. Loved this story filled with humour and colourful characters. Looking forward to the next book
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Loved the turns of the plot and the interactions of the characters in this story. A delight, laughter aplenty, sparkling dialog that left me with a smile on my face. It does have some steam
PHENOMENAL, UNEXPECTED, BLINDSIDING, HEART-STOPPING ENCHANTING ROMANCE!!
Kudos to Ms. Erica Ridley. Reading this book was an unforgettable journey into another world where anything is possible. I thoroughly loved the main characters Ms. Chloe Wynchester and Lord Lawrence Gosling, the Duke of Faircliffe. Chloe’s character is remarkable and not easily forgotten. She may not be a diamond of the first water but she has a beauty that is all her own. She radiates an inner beauty that few could boast. In this story she finds out how preconceived notions can be misleading; she finds that Lawrence sees through her facade of invisibility and sees the real Chloe which leaves her unsure and insecure because other than her family no one else has ever taken the time to know her. She also comes to find that Lawrence is not what he presents to the world and has more substance than she gave him credit for. When involved with her family in a madcap caper, her part was to be unremarkable, invisible, forgettable. It allowed her the ability to move in and out of situations and crowds with ease. She was excellent at it until she became involved with Lawrence. When Chloe finally obtained Lawrence’s attention it brought her to a crossroads in her life of living the status quo or maturing and living life in the fullest way possible. It was a confusing and at times painful process but her family supported her in a way that made one wish what it would be like to have a family like the Wynchesters. She fell in love with the real Lawrence not the icy, aloof persona he gave to others. Lawrence was trying to pull his life out of the gutter his father descended the dukedom into. He was penniless and his father made a laughing stock of the Gosling name and the Faircliffe title. He felt he had to be the epitome of correctness and his life must be scandal free. He also felt the only solution to saving his dukedom was to marry an heiress. But society treated the Wynchester family as undesirable and a terror to be associated with. As Lawrence spent time with Chloe, he saw how society treated her and he would not stand for it. As he got to know Chloe, he realizes there was freedom in being oneself. But could he chance to try? As hard as he tried to stay steadfast in his resolve to marry for money he fell in love with Chloe and her family. The personality changes in Lawrence proved it is never too late to risk all for love. It was a beautiful, loving, painful experience between Chloe and Lawrence and due to his perceived duty, he hurt her by letting her know she was not good enough for him. Chloe’s painful experience left her in a better place in her heart mind and soul and the changes that occurred were surprising and moving. Lawrence’s conscious would not leave him be. His choices were simple. He had to marry for money or face penury and hold onto a once in a lifetime love. This is a first rate, first class, five-star story. A must read. It is impossible to be disappointed. I look forward to the next book about Tommy and Philippa’s story. I can hardly wait.
I received an Advanced Readers Copy of this book via NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving a review.