Desperately Seeking a Duke

Heiress Brides, Book 1

By: Celeste Bradley

Narrated by: Susan Ericksen

The only way for vicar's daughter Phoebe Millbury to inherit a family fortune is to find herself a duke - just as her late grandfather demanded in his will. But Phoebe, who's still trying to make good after a romantic scandal, also has her two cousins to contend with. They're all competing for the same money, maybe even the same men...until Phoebe meets her match in the terribly handsome and charming Rafe Marbrook. When she receives a marriage proposal from the Marquis of Brookhaven, Phoebe is thrilled to learn that Rafe is headed for dukedom, and accepts his offer. There's only one problem: It's from Rafe's older, less captivating brother, Calder. Now Phoebe finds herself on the verge of yet another scandal as she faces a desperate choice: Marry Calder for his money-or follow her own heart? Each way can only lead to trouble.

©2008 Celeste Bradley (P)2014 Tantor

Critic reviews

"[A] humorous romp of marriage mayhem that's a love-and-laughter treat, tinged with heated sensuality and tenderness. This winning combination ensures Bradley's Heiress Brides series will climb the bestseller charts." ---RT Book Reviews

Bradley did it again!

If you could sum up Desperately Seeking a Duke in three words, what would they be?

Surprises all around!

Who was your favorite character and why?

Rafe, of course. Usually, I like the heroine, but the author had created an amazing character is Rafe. He fell in love at first sight almost. Usually that's the heroine's role. And then he continued to be the reformed rake anyone would fall in love with.

Which scene was your favorite?

Their first meeting after her engagement to his brother was my favourite, and the beginning of many, many obstacles.

Did you have an extreme reaction to this book? Did it make you laugh or cry?

As the book went on, I couldn't figure out how they were going to succeed against all the obstacles the author heaped on them, only to find another obstacle, and then yet another. I kept listening because I needed to find out what happened!

Any additional comments?

I read the third book first, and I didn't see anything coming in there. In this one, I needed to find out how they overcome their challenges. These are not just copy cat books -- each one appears to be unique. I'm looking forward to reading the second one in the series.

Excellent Story and Performance

I like Bradley's writing and the narrator was an excellent compliment to it. Truly enjoyable performance. Although the basis for the story (the will) was silly, Bradley's characters come to life and are full of humor and human flaws. The story is more intricate than I expected. Good way to spend some time!

Seriously???

It was beyond a ridiculous story. I am so mad at myself for finishing it. I just kept thinking it HAD to get better. A cheesy fairy tale at best.

Cute

There were so many characters that in the beginning I became confused but once the characters were well developed, it was good. Funny plot twists even to the end and it left a little bit at the end to give the desire to find out more.

Cleverly funny

I really loved the plot and narration of this book. Regency novels are my favorite and this one thoroughly entertained me!