The Duke Alone
The McQuoids of Mayfair Book 1
For an abandoned lady and a reclusive duke, the winter season brings a swirl of romance—and danger—in a bracing novel by USA Today bestselling author Christi Caldwell..
Lady Myrtle McQuoid has always felt a little forgotten, and this season is no exception. When her boisterous family vacates their London townhouse for the country, Myrtle finds she’s been left behind. But she just needs to stay warm, keep her belly full, and distract herself until her relatives realize their mistake and turn back to collect her. Surely that won’t take long.
Brooding widower Val Bancroft, the Duke of Aragon, has shut himself off from the world. He craves blessed solitude—a loyal dog, a silent house, and his own company are all he requires. Certainly not the nonstop chattering of the joyful, opinionated young woman next door.
But with a potential threat lurking in the winter shadows, Myrtle may need to pluck up the nerve to approach the reclusive duke. And Val is not one to turn his back on a vulnerable lady.
Amid the silent nights of London, beneath a blanket of snow, could the light of a new, warm love be kindling?
Reader Reviews
Library Journal Review
“Caldwell’s chaste, emotional romance will charm readers looking for a Christmas story that mixes melancholy with joy.”
-Library Journal
Historical Novels Review
Caldwell’s humor, which often toes the line into farce, lightens the gloom of loneliness around the characters, and she hits every beat of the romance formula with charm and clever pacing. Sheer fun for readers who adore Pride and Prejudice, Christmas, and dogs
-Historical Novels
Heartwarming
Heartwarming tale of two people who were both struggling with their past hurts, one from grief and the other from rejection. Lots of interaction and witty dialogue between Myrtle and Val. Their romance was skillfully and gradually blossoming from beginning to end. Loved this! Highly recommend!
Dori
Absolutely amazing story
Emotions are all over the place. A story of rebirth of the heart finding love again through the bright & shining star of a beautiful & lovely young woman. Both the main characters of Valentino & Myrtle are amazing. The details & descriptions of the scenes & scenarios are awesome. The banter between these two is so delightful & most of all the refreshing character of Myrtle of a vibrant young lady. The close similarities to "Home Alone" was hilarious. This would be a great Christmas movie which brings happiness & goodness to light especially at Christmas time. Such a enjoyable read to set by the fireplace in a cosy chair with a warm drink of tea, cocoa or brandy or cognac. Christi Caldwell you did an outstanding job writing this storyline.
-Madeline Crist
Moving and humorous
A wonderfully written story! It's rare these days to find a romance in which the writer is so gifted that you can truly feel the tenderness between the couple and to also fill the story will lovely humorous moments! What a treat!
Anonymous
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The Duke Alone
For an abandoned lady and a reclusive duke, the winter season brings a swirl of romance—and danger
