- Reads 2,809,057
- Votes 94,170
- Parts 23
Complete Fri, Sep 4, 20154h 45m
Full Story Price76 Coins
When the arrogant stranger Bess is forced to marry unexpectedly becomes a duke, she'll find herself at odds with her growing feelings as he hunts for a killer.
*****
Sharp-tongued Elizabeth 'Bess' Jones is perfectly content living on her lonesome in a tiny village south of Derbyshire. She works as a nurse, owns a small home, and finds the label of 'spinster' an agreeable trade for her independence. But when her entire life is uprooted in an instant, she only has one person to blame: her new husband, Emmett Wilde, who was caught in a compromising situation with her. And now, despite his promise to fake a death certificate after their wedding--to free her of any duty to him or their marriage bed--he sends for her in the dead of night with startling news: his father has been murdered, and he is now the Duke of Ascot with a wife he can no longer deny...
[[Word Count: 60,000-70,000 words]]
[[Cover designed by Ren Tachibana]]
All Rights Reserved
#82
love
Join the largest storytelling communityGet personalized story recommendations, save your favourites to your library, and comment and vote to grow your community.
You may also like
![A Bet On Hearts [Romantic Comedy]](https://img.wattpad.com/cover/351435223-256-k536785.jpg)
A Bet On Hearts [Romantic Comedy]
[IMPORTANT: This is a closed-door romance for readers uncomfortable reading heavy erotica and adult scenes.] Miss Mina Haswell has always been a firm believer in love, especially when it comes to her betrothed, a dear childhood friend. Years ago, however, fate took a cruel turn, draping her in mourning and casting her heart in grief. Though unable to even fathom the prospect of love once again blessing her life, she finds joy in her sister's happiness. After her father's untimely passing, the title of Viscount Sinclair unexpectedly falls to a distant relative, the somewhat reclusive Mr Royston Langdon. When their paths cross, Mina and Royston embark on an unconventional journey filled with unforeseen challenges. Intrigued by Miss Haswell, the newly minted Lord Sinclair proposes a daring wager - a game of hearts. If Mina can help Royston win the affection of his potential bride, he promises to triple her inheritance. In return, should Royston help Mina win the heart of her chosen suitor, she will be forced to give up her beloved summer residence, which holds her most cherished memories and represents a significant portion of her inheritance. Their stakes are equal - Mina has lived far from the scrutinising gaze of the ton, while Royston remains a newcomer to its complex world. But patience is not a virtue for which Miss Haswell is known, and Lord Sinclair seems to take a peculiar pleasure in vexing her at every turn. Amidst the whirlwind of emotions, societal expectations and their passionate exchange of wits, one question lingers: Can there be a winner from this daring wager, or will the unpredictability of love cause the rules to be rewritten? ♦♦♦ Contains themes of death and grief. ♦♦♦ ♥♥♥ Ambys 2024 Favorite ♥♥♥ The story is also available on Inkitt. #historicalromanceComplete
Of Love and Deceit
A damaged duke. A misunderstood duchess. A marriage forged in the fires of obligation. Jane Miller's world shatters with the discovery of a devastating secret. Forced to leave behind the family she once cherished, burdened by her father's insurmountable debts, and thrust into an arranged marriage to the enigmatic Edward Green, Jane teeters on the edge of despair. As she is drawn deeper into Edward's icy world, her resolve begins to waver. From the start, their union is rife with distrust, unspoken resentments, and clashing wills. But beneath Edward's aloof exterior lies a man harbouring his own scars and secrets-ones that could either bridge the growing chasm between them or seal their fates forever. Can Jane and Edward overcome their differences to find solace in each other, or will their fragile connection crumble under the weight of deception? Can love truly grow between adversaries? Or will the shadows of their pasts consume the fragile bond forming between them? Of Love and Deceit is a captivating enemies-to-lovers tale set in the Regency era, where every lingering glance and sharp word hides an unspoken truth. Fans of passionate romance and gripping drama will be swept into Jane and Edward's journey of betrayal, redemption, and a love forged in the unlikeliest of circumstances. If you enjoyed Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen, you'll love Of Love and Deceit. Discover the secrets and struggles that bind Jane and Edward together-one click to begin this riveting journey today!Complete
Before She Ruled (Before Series, Book 1)
In hiding as a maid, Princess Adelaide must resist the charms of the devilishly handsome Duke of Kingfield. But could he help her if she told him her secret? ***** Two years ago, Princess Adelaide was forced into hiding after her father, King William IV, was killed in a carriage accident that also took the life of her mother and brother. She suspects that the despicable man now on the throne of England--her uncle, Ernest--is responsible for her family's death, so she avoids his watchful eye by working as a maid for the aristocratic families of London. However, when she's employed by the dashing Duke of Kingfield, she soon discovers that he not only believes that the princess is alive, but also that she could be the key to saving England. Is Adelaide willing to come out of hiding in order to prove him right? Or are her growing feelings for him worth giving up her claim to the throne? [[word count: 100,000-150,000 words]] Cover designed by Holly ThurstonComplete
The Highlander's Thief
'She was a thief. She was a liar. She was his prisoner. And he'd just broken every rule in the book and kissed her.' Laird Anndrais McWilliam knows his father was murdered. He might not have been struck with a sword or pushed down stairs, but the woman who stole money from their clan killed him as surely as she'd stabbed a knife through his heart. And McWilliam has vowed he'll to do anything to bring her to justice, even if it means breaking the law...and his own heart. After Miss Rosa Blair receives a letter threatening her cousin's life if Rosa doesn't confess to a crime she didn't commit, she doesn't hesitate to turn herself over to the authorities. That is, until one bull-headed Scotsman the size of a bear kidnaps her in the name of justice. McWilliam is insufferable, refusing to listen to her pleas of innocence. Nothing she says will convince him her cousin is in mortal danger. Rosa knows McWilliam is standing between her and freedom. McWilliam knows Rosa is a thief and a liar. At every turn they clash, so why do they keep finding themselves locked in each other's arms? _________________ 'I rarely find books on wattpad that COMPEL me to comment and I stayed up all night to read this. It was so good. From the first moment spider-crawling up a drainpipe to throwing herself off a horse... these two made my stomach flutter.' --Review by a-bit-peaky 'Just finished reading The Highlanders Thief. It was wonderful! One of the best stories that I've read on wattpad. Keep up the good work!' --Review by admiralqueenie ________________ Cover design by Melody SimmonsComplete
Bound To Bea
"No respect for the dead." His words came out in silent whispers, his teeth clenched. A small smile tugged on her lips. "Respect is earned in life, my lord. When a man fails to earn respect in life, it cannot suddenly be bestowed on him simply because he returned to the dust whence he came." "At the very least, Lady Atkins, pretend," he admonished. "Pretend to mourn for your husband! You are a woman in mourning! Grief, sadness, decency is expected of you," he growled, stepping so close to her, his nose almost kissed hers. "Not a low-cut, salacious red dress!" She inched forward, jaw set, until she could feel his warm breath on her skin. "And you are a man whose cousin's widow was only a few minutes ago caught with a man on top of her," she shot back, leaning further in until her lips were nearly brushing his as she searched his gaze. "Anger, rage, fury, is expected of you, my lord... Not jealousy!" * Newly widowed, the sudden death of Beatrice's husband has brought about her freedom from the shackles of a loveless marriage... Or so she thinks. All hope is quickly lost when she discovers her husband's cruelty in disinheriting her and leaving her penniless. But worse than his decision to disinherit her, is his decision to leave her at the mercy of his cousin; Noah, the very handsome Marquess of Camden. TW: This story contains mentions of suicide. Copyright © 2021 Lily Orevba All rights reserved.Complete
The Wicked Wife's Intent
(Completed) "Have you ever thought that I wear them because I want you to ravage me." She said with a teasing seductive tone. Ares had enough and pulled his wife roughly by the waist, trapping her underneath him. "I've had enough of your teasing games. If you don't shut that pretty mouth of yours, I won't hesitate to do so for you." Ares replied with a growl of frustration, his hands on either side of her head. Chuckling at his level of restraint. Raquel brought her arms up to wrap them around his neck. "Then do it." _______________________ Raquel Azure Sterling, daughter of Marquess and Marchioness of Oxbridge, is a promiscuous lady who is spoiled rotten. As an only child, Lady Raquel has only ever received anything and everything she has ever wanted. Her parents loved their only child and allowed her to live her life any way she wanted. They didn't force anything of her, not marriage, not etiquette, or a budget at that. But what happens when her family's wealth which she never thought would end, has now come down to its last pennies. Raquel has to now marry a young handsome Duke who could die any day at war. Luckily for her, Raquel has a plan. Highest Rankings #1 duchess #6 aristocrat #2 historicalromance #1 spunky #3 duke #1 gentryComplete
To Bewitch A Beast
"Deliciously captivating! It's the perfect amount of laughs, love and drama. You won't be able to put this book down!" - Grace K @ HQ. When Agatha becomes the Everard's governess, she's grateful for a way to escape her dark past. That is until her growing feelings for the mysterious Lord of the house begin to present an even greater risk. ***** The Everard's are one of the most esteemed families in Wickhurst. And Benedict, the Lord of Devonshire and the eldest of the clan, is as mysterious and brooding as anyone The Town has ever seen. His face is marked with scars, and no one dares to speak on how he got them. Known to all as 'the beast,' the townsfolk tremble in his wake. But little does he know that he is about to meet his match in Agatha Blair, his sisters' new governess. Agatha is witty, smart and gives him a run for his money when he tries to peel back the layers of who she really is. She truly intrigues him more than any woman he has met but she is a governess and he is a Lord. The Town would shun the union of two people from different stations and any romance between them is surely a recipe for social disaster! But what can they do when the burning hot feelings refuse to relent? And when Benedict uncovers that Agatha is hiding a secret far more dangerous than anything he could have imagined, will love save the day and will Agatha finally tame the beast? *This story is a standalone title in the Everard Family series. [Now a Hachette Audiobook!] [[word count: 100,000-150,000 words]]Complete
Pricing The Heart
Eloise is desperate to take charge of her life after losing her parents and home, and after discovering her uncle's plans to marry her off to a man three times her age. In an attempt to escape her uncle's vicious plans, she runs off with another man and marries him in haste. Newly married with dreams of a happy life, she soon realizes she's trapped in a nightmare with an abusive monster who has set his interests upon her purse. He squanders what's left of her money and in one last effort to humiliate her, sells her to a stranger for next to nothing. * David Clarke has banished himself from London for the part he played in the death of his wife. He relocates to the country to live the rest of his days in seclusion, and for five years, he lives a quiet life. However, a chance encounter one evening sees him paying the price for a bride he does not need. Yet, with each day that passes, he finds himself utterly wanting her. Copyright © 2022 Lily Orevba All rights reserved. TW: This book contains mentions of death and mental illness.Complete
Rediscovering Love
Carmella 'Ella' Camden, a curious and intelligent young woman, dreams of finding love and companionship. Despite her beauty and wit, she constantly feels overlooked by noble men during her social seasons, who only seem interested in her friends and relatives. Losing hope, Ella resigns herself to the life of a spinster. Meanwhile, Jeremiah 'Jeremy' Morvall, Duke of Darlington, returns to England after traveling for business, being left no choice he has to find a lady to shoo away the eager ladies and their mothers. Fate brings Jeremy and Ella together at a grand ball, where Ella seeks solace in the Duke's library, surrounded by books that have always been her faithful companions. Little does she know that Jeremy instantly becomes captivated by her enchanting presence. However, Ella's past experiences have left her feeling unworthy of such attention, and she dismisses Jeremy's interest as nothing more than a fleeting curiosity. As Jeremy persistently pursues Ella's affections, the walls around her heart begin to crumble. But can Ella overcome her insecurities and allow herself to believe in love once more? Will Jeremy's true motives be exposed, or will he prove himself to be a genuine and devoted suitor? "Rediscovering Love" is a heartwarming historical romance that explores themes of self-discovery, overcoming past disappointments, and finding love when least expected. Readers will be swept away on a journey filled with tender moments, unexpected twists, and the undeniable power of true love. #1 IN SEASON - 05TH MARCH 2025 #1 IN HISTORICAL - 18TH JUNE 2024 #2 IN HISTORICAL - 31ST OCTOBER 2024Complete
Husband Wanted (HC #1)
Elizbeth Humphrey wants a husband. Her expectations are not outlandish; all she asks is that he be reasonably handsome, reasonably wealthy and completely kind. Her brothers have offered their assistance, and it's given her hope that perhaps there is a man out there who might want her for a wife. But alas, the first man she meets after recommitting to the battle against spinsterhood is reasonably handsome, reasonably naked and completely soaked through and stranded on their front steps. He also has a head-wound and no memory of who he is, but Elizabeth Humphrey has larger mysteries to solve; namely, the mystery of who she might marry. Book 1 of the Humphrey Chronicles! Completed: March 2022 (~83000 words)Complete
[IMPORTANT: This is a closed-door romance for readers uncomfortable reading heavy erotica and adult scenes.] Miss Mina Haswell has always been a firm believer in love, especially when it comes to her betrothed, a dear childhood friend. Years ago, however, fate took a cruel turn, draping her in mourning and casting her heart in grief. Though unable to even fathom the prospect of love once again blessing her life, she finds joy in her sister's happiness. After her father's untimely passing, the title of Viscount Sinclair unexpectedly falls to a distant relative, the somewhat reclusive Mr Royston Langdon. When their paths cross, Mina and Royston embark on an unconventional journey filled with unforeseen challenges. Intrigued by Miss Haswell, the newly minted Lord Sinclair proposes a daring wager - a game of hearts. If Mina can help Royston win the affection of his potential bride, he promises to triple her inheritance. In return, should Royston help Mina win the heart of her chosen suitor, she will be forced to give up her beloved summer residence, which holds her most cherished memories and represents a significant portion of her inheritance. Their stakes are equal - Mina has lived far from the scrutinising gaze of the ton, while Royston remains a newcomer to its complex world. But patience is not a virtue for which Miss Haswell is known, and Lord Sinclair seems to take a peculiar pleasure in vexing her at every turn. Amidst the whirlwind of emotions, societal expectations and their passionate exchange of wits, one question lingers: Can there be a winner from this daring wager, or will the unpredictability of love cause the rules to be rewritten? ♦♦♦ Contains themes of death and grief. ♦♦♦ ♥♥♥ Ambys 2024 Favorite ♥♥♥ The story is also available on Inkitt. #historicalromance
More detailsContent Guidelines