What do you think?
Rate this book
A Beauty for a Duke
Beauty with brains meets a big, grumpy Beast just before Christmas. Only a third wheel and a long carriage ride are in their way...
The beauty of a barmaid, Sofie, has rejected every marriage offer she's ever received. To Sofie, marriage requires trust and true love. Equally important, she wants to be an independent woman, not someone's property. And a piece of that independence means attending a lecture where she can learn new ways to invest her money. Like a barmaid is going to find her way there though, especially during the Christmas season.
Enter Egan, a beast of a man. Gruff, gigantic, and a Scottish duke to boot. As if he'll go unnoticed. So when he saves the most beautiful woman he's ever laid eyes on, it's much to his chagrin that his best mate laid eyes on her first. He may be a beast, but he's a loyal one. Yet somehow he finds himself stuck with Sofie, and company, on a quest for knowledge.
Can he keep his friendship in tact and his kilt on, as he endures mistletoe kisses and beatific smiles amidst cinnamon swirls and cozy fires?
The beauty of a barmaid, Sofie, has rejected every marriage offer she's ever received. To Sofie, marriage requires trust and true love. Equally important, she wants to be an independent woman, not someone's property. And a piece of that independence means attending a lecture where she can learn new ways to invest her money. Like a barmaid is going to find her way there though, especially during the Christmas season.
Enter Egan, a beast of a man. Gruff, gigantic, and a Scottish duke to boot. As if he'll go unnoticed. So when he saves the most beautiful woman he's ever laid eyes on, it's much to his chagrin that his best mate laid eyes on her first. He may be a beast, but he's a loyal one. Yet somehow he finds himself stuck with Sofie, and company, on a quest for knowledge.
Can he keep his friendship in tact and his kilt on, as he endures mistletoe kisses and beatific smiles amidst cinnamon swirls and cozy fires?
114 pages, Paperback
Published September 19, 2023
About the author
Eliana Piers
27 books135 followersWhat makes people fall in love? Why do two people end up together? Every love story is unique and that's what I love to write.
Eliana Piers has been writing and singing stories since she was five years old. After feeling inspired by authors like Julia Quinn, Tessa Dare, and Minerva Spencer, Eliana decided to test her quill on the page.
Writing about love and how two people come to connect and share parts of their souls with each other is now an obsession.
Eliana lives in Canada where she drinks ice caps every day.
Eliana Piers has been writing and singing stories since she was five years old. After feeling inspired by authors like Julia Quinn, Tessa Dare, and Minerva Spencer, Eliana decided to test her quill on the page.
Writing about love and how two people come to connect and share parts of their souls with each other is now an obsession.
Eliana lives in Canada where she drinks ice caps every day.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
October 14, 2023
Note: Some of my goodreads shelves can be spoilers
Overall: 4.5 rounded to ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Readability: 📖📖📖📖📖
Feels: 🦋🦋🦋
Emotional Depth: 💔💔💔
Sexual Tension: ⚡⚡⚡⚡
Romance: 💞💞💞
Sensuality: 💋💋💋
Sex Scene Length: 🍑🍑🍑 (they are still on the light-ish side but I definitely felt like they were more developed from her Good Dukes series)
Steam Scale (Number of Sex Scenes): 🔥🔥
Humor: Yes
Perspective: Third person from both the hero and heroine
When mains are first on page together: It took a bit (chapter 3 of 10, or about 19% in) but it doesn’t feel like it because of the lower page count
Cliffhanger: No this ends with a happily ever after
Epilogue: No
Format: voluntarily read an advanced reader copy from the author in e-book form
(Descriptions found at end of my review)
Should I read in order?
This is the first of Piers’ fairy tale retellings series and can be read alone.
Basic plot:
When Egan and his friend stop at The Happy Unicorn for a drink, they get roped into taking a few barmaids on an adventure.
Give this a try if you want:
- Regency (1816)
- novella length
- fairy tale spin on Beauty and the Beast
- holiday vibes – Christmas is approaching and mistletoe kisses
- Scottish/English hero – his mother is fully English but he has a burr and was heavily influenced by his father
- huge hero/tiny heroine
- class difference – Scottish duke hero and barmaid heroine
- mid steam – 2 scenes in a novella length
First line:
Just one more chapter.
My thoughts:
I really loved this novella from Piers! I thought it was silly in the best way, funny, steamy, and a hilarious little Christmastime romp. I had so many quotes I was highlighting in this one.
Sofie craves independence and a bit part of that is financial. She would love to go to a railroad convention to learn more about investing. Luckily for her, the perfect Scottish pair arrive at her tavern and shenanigans ensue.
I had such a smirk on my face while reading this book. I just had so much fun!
Quotes/spoiler-y thoughts:Any mistakes/typos are my own
Content warnings: These should be taken as a minimum of what to expect. It’s very possible I have missed some.
Locations of kisses/intimate scenes:
Extra stuff like what my review breakdown means, where to find me, and book clubs
Overall: 4.5 rounded to ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Readability: 📖📖📖📖📖
Feels: 🦋🦋🦋
Emotional Depth: 💔💔💔
Sexual Tension: ⚡⚡⚡⚡
Romance: 💞💞💞
Sensuality: 💋💋💋
Sex Scene Length: 🍑🍑🍑 (they are still on the light-ish side but I definitely felt like they were more developed from her Good Dukes series)
Steam Scale (Number of Sex Scenes): 🔥🔥
Humor: Yes
Perspective: Third person from both the hero and heroine
When mains are first on page together: It took a bit (chapter 3 of 10, or about 19% in) but it doesn’t feel like it because of the lower page count
Cliffhanger: No this ends with a happily ever after
Epilogue: No
Format: voluntarily read an advanced reader copy from the author in e-book form
(Descriptions found at end of my review)
Should I read in order?
This is the first of Piers’ fairy tale retellings series and can be read alone.
Basic plot:
When Egan and his friend stop at The Happy Unicorn for a drink, they get roped into taking a few barmaids on an adventure.
Give this a try if you want:
- Regency (1816)
- novella length
- fairy tale spin on Beauty and the Beast
- holiday vibes – Christmas is approaching and mistletoe kisses
- Scottish/English hero – his mother is fully English but he has a burr and was heavily influenced by his father
- huge hero/tiny heroine
- class difference – Scottish duke hero and barmaid heroine
- mid steam – 2 scenes in a novella length
First line:
Just one more chapter.
My thoughts:
I really loved this novella from Piers! I thought it was silly in the best way, funny, steamy, and a hilarious little Christmastime romp. I had so many quotes I was highlighting in this one.
Sofie craves independence and a bit part of that is financial. She would love to go to a railroad convention to learn more about investing. Luckily for her, the perfect Scottish pair arrive at her tavern and shenanigans ensue.
I had such a smirk on my face while reading this book. I just had so much fun!
Quotes/spoiler-y thoughts:Any mistakes/typos are my own
Content warnings: These should be taken as a minimum of what to expect. It’s very possible I have missed some.
Locations of kisses/intimate scenes:
Extra stuff like what my review breakdown means, where to find me, and book clubs
January 29, 2024
My first book by this author, and I enjoyed her storytelling. It was a quick read at just 100 pages long, full of fun and flirty banter, very likeable characters and an overall fluffy read.
Having said that, even though the banter was witty and cute, it also felt very modern. A somewhat modernized historical romance. You’ve got to go with the flow and not be a stickler for anything remotely acceptable during this historical time period. Everything was far fetched, but I found myself not caring so much because it was cute at the same time.
The virgin heroine was a barmaid at a roadside tavern that her father owns. She was all against getting married because her true love was learning about finances, investing money, going to conventions to learn more… and no way was she going to lose her investments and money to a husband!
Yet, when it came to being caught under the mistletoe with the grumpy hero, which led to some kissy time, her inner non-virgin sex kitten self came roaring out. Not a shy bone in her body. The hero was determined to not let her go, she was determined to not let her somewhat independence go. The struggle began.
The hero was an appropriate grumpy Duke (although he was a casual Duke, he was always addressed by his first name) but his grumpiness didn’t last long. It lasted for about 24 hours. Why?
Because they fall in love during their weekend unchaperoned road trip. Insta-love strikes again. They were already exchanging I Love You’s at 60%… I hate that, especially when the story is so short to begin with.
Anyway, it was cute and I plan to read to next few stories in this series.
Having said that, even though the banter was witty and cute, it also felt very modern. A somewhat modernized historical romance. You’ve got to go with the flow and not be a stickler for anything remotely acceptable during this historical time period. Everything was far fetched, but I found myself not caring so much because it was cute at the same time.
The virgin heroine was a barmaid at a roadside tavern that her father owns. She was all against getting married because her true love was learning about finances, investing money, going to conventions to learn more… and no way was she going to lose her investments and money to a husband!
Yet, when it came to being caught under the mistletoe with the grumpy hero, which led to some kissy time, her inner non-virgin sex kitten self came roaring out. Not a shy bone in her body. The hero was determined to not let her go, she was determined to not let her somewhat independence go. The struggle began.
The hero was an appropriate grumpy Duke (although he was a casual Duke, he was always addressed by his first name) but his grumpiness didn’t last long. It lasted for about 24 hours. Why?
Because they fall in love during their weekend unchaperoned road trip. Insta-love strikes again. They were already exchanging I Love You’s at 60%… I hate that, especially when the story is so short to begin with.
Anyway, it was cute and I plan to read to next few stories in this series.
November 27, 2023
A quick read of grumpy Egan, a Scottish Duke and Sofie, the daughter of an Inn keeper. Interested in investments, Sofie and her best friend invite themselves to a conference on railroads. For George, Egan's best friend and Fia, Sofie's best friend, it's love at first sight.
A snow storm and a kiss under the mistletoe bring magic. VERY HOT!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book gifted by the author.
A snow storm and a kiss under the mistletoe bring magic. VERY HOT!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book gifted by the author.
January 12, 2024
I feel so bad giving this two stars but this felt like nonsense to my overtired brain. The plot? Hot girl barmaid wants to go to a convention and strongholds her way to getting there with two hot guys and her bff. They don’t have any connection between the hero and heroine because he’s thinking his bro has dibs???? And then the hero’s friend and heroines bff says yeet going to elope so our main characters fuck. And then some sentimental stuff about Christmas? I feel jaded.
September 21, 2023
Sofie, who works in her father’s inn has rejected every marriage offer she's ever received. She wants to be an independent woman, not someone's property. She enjoys investing & would like to attend a lecture where she can learn new ways to invest her money. Egan is a beast of a man. Gruff, gigantic, and a Scottish duke. So when he saves the most beautiful woman he's ever laid eyes on, it's much to his chagrin that his best friend George laid eyes on her first. Somehow he finds himself stuck with Sofie, and company, on a quest for knowledge.
A quick read, which I read in a sitting. A charming romance of love at first sight & class differences. I liked the independent Sofie & the gruff Egan, there was also a secondary romance too. The story flowed well. The were misunderstandings & assumptions as well as forced proximity. An enjoyable short story
My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
A quick read, which I read in a sitting. A charming romance of love at first sight & class differences. I liked the independent Sofie & the gruff Egan, there was also a secondary romance too. The story flowed well. The were misunderstandings & assumptions as well as forced proximity. An enjoyable short story
My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
September 24, 2023
I love a quick and quirky novella. Sofie, Eagan and their friends take a trip to a convention pertaining to investing in the railroad. Well I have to see that there was a lot of interest in the human anatomy then investing. The writer keeps the reader interested in how the relationship will develop between Eagan and Sofie. Eagan is a grumpy Duke, but he certainly shares a different side when he’s by himself. The story is very light hearted. The story focuses in on the closeness of Eagan and Sofie. Until next time my fellow readers. Read on! I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
September 22, 2023
Another well written novella by this author. Full of love, romance, drama, suspense, excitement and a happily ever after. Sofie is the daughter of a tavern owner who helps serve Egan, the Duke and his friend George. They plan an outing where George and Fia leave Egan and Sofie by themselves. True love happens having some steam between them. Fast paced read, can't wait for more from this author. Would recommend this to others.
I am an ARC and leave this unbiased, honest review.
I am an ARC and leave this unbiased, honest review.
September 23, 2023
I love a BATB retelling and HISTORIC? Here for it. Sofie must read one more chapter then one more page (how familiar) before she helps her bestie Fie. Sofie has literally rejected everyone .. until Egan and their story is precious. Plus that side romance bubbling! Misunderstandings, banter and both girls get a guy. I just enjoyed this twist on my favorite tale!
I have received this ARC for an honest review, all thoughts/opinions above are my own.
I have received this ARC for an honest review, all thoughts/opinions above are my own.
January 14, 2024
This was a very quick read but an enjoyable one as well. Eliana Piers is a new to me author and I like her style. I look forward to reading a full length story by her.
Sofie, a bar maid with beauty and intelligence, and Egan, a giant kilt wearing Scottish Duke, are the two main characters of this story and I really enjoyed their banter and how quickly their attraction escalated. Of course, as per fairytales, there's a happy ending after a scare!
Pleasant and light reading:)
Sofie, a bar maid with beauty and intelligence, and Egan, a giant kilt wearing Scottish Duke, are the two main characters of this story and I really enjoyed their banter and how quickly their attraction escalated. Of course, as per fairytales, there's a happy ending after a scare!
Pleasant and light reading:)
December 16, 2023
The story is short and sweet and even then it manages to have quite an adventurous plot, a fiercely independent heroine and a deliciously grumpy hero 🥰🥰
Sophie and Egan and the cutest grumpy/sunshine pair! Egan is so smitten with Sophie from the very beginning but he thinks his friend is into her. That subplot resolves in the most delightful way 🤭🤭
In general, it’s a fun, fast-paced and even an emotional story packed in only a handful of pages!
I only wish it was longer, I really wanted to have more of strong-willed Sophie and Scottish boar Egan ❤️
I’m definitely hooked on Eliana Piers, I’ll continue my journey with more shorts and full-length novels!
Rating:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
🌶️
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Sophie and Egan and the cutest grumpy/sunshine pair! Egan is so smitten with Sophie from the very beginning but he thinks his friend is into her. That subplot resolves in the most delightful way 🤭🤭
In general, it’s a fun, fast-paced and even an emotional story packed in only a handful of pages!
I only wish it was longer, I really wanted to have more of strong-willed Sophie and Scottish boar Egan ❤️
I’m definitely hooked on Eliana Piers, I’ll continue my journey with more shorts and full-length novels!
Rating:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
🌶️
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
April 8, 2024
Really great quick read! Loved how grumpy Egan is, totally playing up the beast vibes! Such a fun story!
Eliana Piers’ novella, A Beauty for a Duke, is a delightful gem that combines wit, charm, and unexpected passion. Set during a Regency Christmas, it introduces us to two captivating characters: Sofie, a barmaid with dreams of independence, and Egan, a gruff Scottish duke.
Sofie has spurned every marriage proposal, valuing trust and true love above societal expectations. Her desire for independence leads her to a lecture on financial investment—an unlikely pursuit for a barmaid during the festive season.
Enter Egan, a beast of a man with loyalty as unwavering as his size. When he saves Sofie, he’s irked that his best mate noticed her first. Yet fate binds them together on a quest for knowledge, amidst mistletoe kisses and cozy fires.
Eliana’s prose sparkles like freshly fallen snow, evoking the magic of masquerade balls and clandestine meetings. Sofie and Egan’s chemistry is palpable, their banter delightful. The unexpected twist adds a cherry on top.
A Beauty for a Duke is a heartwarming escape—a reminder that love can bloom even in the unlikeliest of circumstances.
Eliana Piers’ novella, A Beauty for a Duke, is a delightful gem that combines wit, charm, and unexpected passion. Set during a Regency Christmas, it introduces us to two captivating characters: Sofie, a barmaid with dreams of independence, and Egan, a gruff Scottish duke.
Sofie has spurned every marriage proposal, valuing trust and true love above societal expectations. Her desire for independence leads her to a lecture on financial investment—an unlikely pursuit for a barmaid during the festive season.
Enter Egan, a beast of a man with loyalty as unwavering as his size. When he saves Sofie, he’s irked that his best mate noticed her first. Yet fate binds them together on a quest for knowledge, amidst mistletoe kisses and cozy fires.
Eliana’s prose sparkles like freshly fallen snow, evoking the magic of masquerade balls and clandestine meetings. Sofie and Egan’s chemistry is palpable, their banter delightful. The unexpected twist adds a cherry on top.
A Beauty for a Duke is a heartwarming escape—a reminder that love can bloom even in the unlikeliest of circumstances.
September 23, 2023
It makes me smile see how quickly couples figure out they are perfect for each other. With a lighthearted and fun tone, Sophie and Fia meet two strangers they wait on at the tavern and the story goes from there. A trip to a locomotive convention at Christmas mixed with smouldering attraction is all that is needed to lead to a HEA.
I received ARC and am voluntarily sharing my honest review.
I received ARC and am voluntarily sharing my honest review.
September 27, 2023
A guff, beastly Duke is no match for the charming tavern barmaid who is much more than meets the eye.
What could happen when they are forced to spend a wintery night together away from home?
This and much more is:
"A Beauty for a Duke" by Eliana Piers, a Christmas novella.
.
England, 1816
Beauty/Beast Vibes
Beauty with Brains
Beast of a Duke
Big Hero, Small Heroine
Grumpy/Sunshine
Road Trip
Instalove- He Falls First
.
Cover rating: 4/5
Story Rating: 3.5/5 (round to 4)
Steam rating: 🔥 🔥 (novella)
.
Series or Stand Alone:
I believe that Ms. Piers has several novellas coming out this winter/fall. However, this is easily a stand alone read.
.
What a lovely Christmas novella! This is a perfect read for a chilly autumn (or winter!) afternoon and a good, hot drink. Fans of Beauty & Beast dynamics are sure to enjoy this insta-love/he falls first historical take on the troupe. As with (most) instalove-type tales, it can feel a little far-fetched that someone falls so quickly and so hard, but just go with it because this was a delight! Fans of miscommunication or jumping to conclusions will also enjoy.
.
As for steam, two steamy scenes in a novella are generous! I only ever expect one good scene from a novella. I feel like the length of the scenes has expanded from another story I have read by Piers, and the writing is stronger, too. Really enjoyable steam to go along with a fun and a bit quirky Christmas tale.
.
I still struggle a bit with the tit-a-rat back and forth between the characters in Pier's writing and long for just a little bit more of a look into the mind of each character during conversations. However, this novella was a really easy, enjoyable read. I plan to continue to read the rest of the novellas she has coming out this fall and winter season as she creates such likable, fun characters!
.
Read as an ARC reader with copy provided by author. Review is honest and voluntary.
.
Content Warning (may contain spoilers):
.
.
.
.
.
De*th of parent (off page)
G*n shot injury (off page)
G*n violence (on page)
What could happen when they are forced to spend a wintery night together away from home?
This and much more is:
"A Beauty for a Duke" by Eliana Piers, a Christmas novella.
.
England, 1816
Beauty/Beast Vibes
Beauty with Brains
Beast of a Duke
Big Hero, Small Heroine
Grumpy/Sunshine
Road Trip
Instalove- He Falls First
.
Cover rating: 4/5
Story Rating: 3.5/5 (round to 4)
Steam rating: 🔥 🔥 (novella)
.
Series or Stand Alone:
I believe that Ms. Piers has several novellas coming out this winter/fall. However, this is easily a stand alone read.
.
What a lovely Christmas novella! This is a perfect read for a chilly autumn (or winter!) afternoon and a good, hot drink. Fans of Beauty & Beast dynamics are sure to enjoy this insta-love/he falls first historical take on the troupe. As with (most) instalove-type tales, it can feel a little far-fetched that someone falls so quickly and so hard, but just go with it because this was a delight! Fans of miscommunication or jumping to conclusions will also enjoy.
.
As for steam, two steamy scenes in a novella are generous! I only ever expect one good scene from a novella. I feel like the length of the scenes has expanded from another story I have read by Piers, and the writing is stronger, too. Really enjoyable steam to go along with a fun and a bit quirky Christmas tale.
.
I still struggle a bit with the tit-a-rat back and forth between the characters in Pier's writing and long for just a little bit more of a look into the mind of each character during conversations. However, this novella was a really easy, enjoyable read. I plan to continue to read the rest of the novellas she has coming out this fall and winter season as she creates such likable, fun characters!
.
Read as an ARC reader with copy provided by author. Review is honest and voluntary.
.
Content Warning (may contain spoilers):
.
.
.
.
.
De*th of parent (off page)
G*n shot injury (off page)
G*n violence (on page)
February 19, 2024
I picked up The Blighter and the Bluestocking and enjoyed it, so I figured I'd try something else by the author. I wasn't as big a fan of this one.
Sofie is a barmaid who apparently has made good money by listening into people's conversations and investing in businesses that they bring up. She wants to go to a railroad conference and lucky for her a duke and his best bud visit her bar, and she's able to hitch a ride with them.
Yes, it is a bit ridiculous.
This isn't really a historical piece, more like modern characters with a historical backdrop. The author seems to write this way, and it honestly didn't bother me in The Blighter and the Bluestocking, but in this one, it just went a bit too far, and I had a hard time connecting with the story.
This one also had the too soon "I love you", like the other book, but again, because the match in this one was so ridiculous, it made it even weirder. I feel like these declarations coming before the MCs actually spend much time together lessen rather than strengthen the feel of the relationships.
This one is also lower steam than Blighter, in case you're wondering.
I think I might go back and try the other series because this one just isn't a good fit for me.
Sofie is a barmaid who apparently has made good money by listening into people's conversations and investing in businesses that they bring up. She wants to go to a railroad conference and lucky for her a duke and his best bud visit her bar, and she's able to hitch a ride with them.
Yes, it is a bit ridiculous.
This isn't really a historical piece, more like modern characters with a historical backdrop. The author seems to write this way, and it honestly didn't bother me in The Blighter and the Bluestocking, but in this one, it just went a bit too far, and I had a hard time connecting with the story.
This one also had the too soon "I love you", like the other book, but again, because the match in this one was so ridiculous, it made it even weirder. I feel like these declarations coming before the MCs actually spend much time together lessen rather than strengthen the feel of the relationships.
This one is also lower steam than Blighter, in case you're wondering.
I think I might go back and try the other series because this one just isn't a good fit for me.
September 21, 2023
Sofie and Fia have been inseparable since childhood. They both worked at The Crowned Rose owned by Sofie's father. She didn’t want her father working so hard at the tavern.
Sofie convinced her father to give her some of the profits to invest. Even though it had to go through her father she couldn’t wait until the day she could have her own account. She didn’t want to marry because she wanted full control of her money. Sofie and Fia decided who would take what table to wait on based on what was being said about investments so she can help her father and Fia.
Egan and George were traveling in the carriage on the way home from a wedding. They decide to stop and it turns out it’s The Crowned Rose. They went into the tavern and sat at a table. George asked did you see that beauty? She’s the most beautiful woman I’ve seen in my life, that hair.
George asked the barmaid “Where did you come from?” She responds “I’ve been here my whole life” Egan thinks George is into Sofie and he also likes her. First time they liked the same girl.
While at the railroad convention afterward, it turns out George and Fie eloped. While they are on their way home they are set upon by highwaymen. Egan thinks Sofie is shot and confesses his love.
Sweet love story with love at first sight.
Sofie convinced her father to give her some of the profits to invest. Even though it had to go through her father she couldn’t wait until the day she could have her own account. She didn’t want to marry because she wanted full control of her money. Sofie and Fia decided who would take what table to wait on based on what was being said about investments so she can help her father and Fia.
Egan and George were traveling in the carriage on the way home from a wedding. They decide to stop and it turns out it’s The Crowned Rose. They went into the tavern and sat at a table. George asked did you see that beauty? She’s the most beautiful woman I’ve seen in my life, that hair.
George asked the barmaid “Where did you come from?” She responds “I’ve been here my whole life” Egan thinks George is into Sofie and he also likes her. First time they liked the same girl.
While at the railroad convention afterward, it turns out George and Fie eloped. While they are on their way home they are set upon by highwaymen. Egan thinks Sofie is shot and confesses his love.
Sweet love story with love at first sight.
September 27, 2023
Wow, this is such a great short novella set at Christmas time. It is a quick read, perfect for a short break or lunch. Although you will need to have a nice cold drink handy! Sofie and her best friend Fia work as barmaids at her father place. Sofie has big dreams of being her own boss and able to manger her investments herself. She is a beauty but has no dreams of marriage and has turned down many. There is a conference on the new railroads and the Investment she is dying to go to. But how are she and Fia going to get there? Egan is a giant of a man and one who carries a lot of pain and guilt. Along with his goofy friend George they end up at the same bar/inn that the girls work at. The girls get Egan to take them to the conference. Oh, my what can happen with Christmas magic, misunderstanding, a blizzard and one missing couple! Grab your copy and get ready to enjoy a great little story. Great pick me up, will have you laughing out loud. I wished it could have been a little longer as I would have loved to learn more of Egan and Sofie. I received an ARC from the author and wish to thank her. This is my honest opinion and am freely giving it. Don’t miss this short, fun, steamy read.
December 11, 2023
Christmas is a magical time, especially if you’re a barmaid in Victorian England with a penchant for investment. You may just encounter a gruff Scottish duke and end up on an adventure with him….
A Beauty for a Duke is a charming story to read in the holiday season. Sofie is a smart woman trapped by societal status and the Victorian view of what women can and can’t do. She knows the railways and wants to better her life by investing in them based on that knowledge. Seeing her discover that there are people who will respect and support her interests is a beautiful part of this fairy-tale romance.
I loved that Egan is this giant, imposing man who can’t believe that any beauty like Sofie could be interested in a great beast of a man like him. It was a bit of a stretch to think that Sofie and her friend could go off with Egan and his friend without objection from someone like her father, but I attributed that to the fairy-tale elements of this story. And there are a few elements at the end that are left dangling.
But this is a delightful novella to spend an afternoon with. If you want to read something that will warm your heart and put you in the spirit of the holiday season, A Beauty for a Duke is an excellent choice!
A Beauty for a Duke is a charming story to read in the holiday season. Sofie is a smart woman trapped by societal status and the Victorian view of what women can and can’t do. She knows the railways and wants to better her life by investing in them based on that knowledge. Seeing her discover that there are people who will respect and support her interests is a beautiful part of this fairy-tale romance.
I loved that Egan is this giant, imposing man who can’t believe that any beauty like Sofie could be interested in a great beast of a man like him. It was a bit of a stretch to think that Sofie and her friend could go off with Egan and his friend without objection from someone like her father, but I attributed that to the fairy-tale elements of this story. And there are a few elements at the end that are left dangling.
But this is a delightful novella to spend an afternoon with. If you want to read something that will warm your heart and put you in the spirit of the holiday season, A Beauty for a Duke is an excellent choice!
December 23, 2023
Ya know what…I believe in love at first sight and all that jazz...but my goodness, Eliana Piers’ A Beauty for a Duke moves faster than the Couple's on the Hallmark Channel. But…man is this book fun. Somehow, Piers unwraps quite a bit in this charming holiday romp.
Sofie is sweet, smart and beautiful and wants nothing to do with marriage. To her, marriage means trust, true love, and being an independent woman. Currently a barmaid with plans for financial freedom in the works, attending a lecture on railroads during Christmas is extremely important but poses a challenge; however, a timely encounter with the right man changes everything for this beauty.
Egan is more than a bit rough around the edges. In fact, some might call the Scottish duke beastly. That doesn’t mean he can't appreciate a beautiful woman when he sees her. Unfortunately for him, his friend sees her first. Woops. After saving the most beautiful woman he's ever laid eyes on, Egan somehow finds himself on an unexpected road trip with Sofie. Hopefully, when it's all said and done, he'll still have his friendship if not his sanity.
This charming holiday take on the classic beauty and the beast tale will leave you smiling and ease the grumpiest of hearts getting you ready for Christmas in no time.
Sofie is sweet, smart and beautiful and wants nothing to do with marriage. To her, marriage means trust, true love, and being an independent woman. Currently a barmaid with plans for financial freedom in the works, attending a lecture on railroads during Christmas is extremely important but poses a challenge; however, a timely encounter with the right man changes everything for this beauty.
Egan is more than a bit rough around the edges. In fact, some might call the Scottish duke beastly. That doesn’t mean he can't appreciate a beautiful woman when he sees her. Unfortunately for him, his friend sees her first. Woops. After saving the most beautiful woman he's ever laid eyes on, Egan somehow finds himself on an unexpected road trip with Sofie. Hopefully, when it's all said and done, he'll still have his friendship if not his sanity.
This charming holiday take on the classic beauty and the beast tale will leave you smiling and ease the grumpiest of hearts getting you ready for Christmas in no time.
September 23, 2023
This novella was a cute spin on Beauty and the Beast with a little bit of Sleeping Beauty thrown in. Beautiful Sofie and her friend Fia are working as barmaids. Sofie was working hard on saving money and making investments. She got much of her information from wealthy male customers. This was how the ladies initially met grumpy Egan and his dopey friend George. Sofie was interested in attending a conference where she would be able to learn about the new railroads. She managed to get Egan to agree to take them there. Of course, the travel plans are disrupted by a blizzard. At that point, things start to get really interesting...
I was initially attracted to this book by the gorgeous cover. Even though I'm not a fan of yellow, I think the cover really stands out. I also loved the camaraderie between Egan and George. It's a shame that this is only a novella. Egan's character had lots of issues that were barely touched upon. The instant attraction that he felt for Sofie made his character rather endearing.
Overall, this was a fun read and I finished it in one sitting. I received a free ARC from the author and this is my honest opinion.
I was initially attracted to this book by the gorgeous cover. Even though I'm not a fan of yellow, I think the cover really stands out. I also loved the camaraderie between Egan and George. It's a shame that this is only a novella. Egan's character had lots of issues that were barely touched upon. The instant attraction that he felt for Sofie made his character rather endearing.
Overall, this was a fun read and I finished it in one sitting. I received a free ARC from the author and this is my honest opinion.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 13, 2023
A fast-paced beauty and the beast inspired retelling with a class difference trope. The MMC is a big, rugged scotsman who is a duke and the FMC is a barmaid with dreams of independence. They meet at her place of work and she worms her way into accompanying him on his trip. Of course, there's fake marriages, snowed in at an inn shenanigans and it's a lot of fun for a sweet little christmas novella.
This story feels modern, with the heroine's hopes and dreams of independence and the little concern that there seemed to be about the class difference impeding a HEA (with a DUKE, in particular). There's also some language and dialogue that felt a little anachronistic but it fit the vibe of the story. Almost like watching Bridgerton vs something like Poldark. You know what you're signing up for, so you know what you're in for. And if you're looking for a fun, modern take on a historical romance, you'll love this. Especially if, like me, you love the "beast" hero!
This story feels modern, with the heroine's hopes and dreams of independence and the little concern that there seemed to be about the class difference impeding a HEA (with a DUKE, in particular). There's also some language and dialogue that felt a little anachronistic but it fit the vibe of the story. Almost like watching Bridgerton vs something like Poldark. You know what you're signing up for, so you know what you're in for. And if you're looking for a fun, modern take on a historical romance, you'll love this. Especially if, like me, you love the "beast" hero!
December 5, 2023
Beautiful barmaid Sofie wants to be an independent woman, not someone's property. She has a mind for finance and longs to attend a lecture where she can learn new ways to invest her money. Egan, a gruff Scottish Duke, crosses Sofie's path and finds himself on a whirlwind road trip with Sofie and two of their friends.
Sadly, this wasn't a hit for me. IMO, it was too low a page count for what the author was trying to accomplish and really would have worked better as a longer novella or a full book. I liked that the heroine was into investing, and I thought going to the railway meeting was a good setup. But there was too much backstory about the heroine and her friend, and then everything went lightning-fast after the couple met in the inn. Although the two friends were a plot device, I thought they took up too much valuable space in such a short story.
Tropes: Class Difference, Beauty & Beast-ish, Road Trip
Steam: 2
Sadly, this wasn't a hit for me. IMO, it was too low a page count for what the author was trying to accomplish and really would have worked better as a longer novella or a full book. I liked that the heroine was into investing, and I thought going to the railway meeting was a good setup. But there was too much backstory about the heroine and her friend, and then everything went lightning-fast after the couple met in the inn. Although the two friends were a plot device, I thought they took up too much valuable space in such a short story.
Tropes: Class Difference, Beauty & Beast-ish, Road Trip
Steam: 2
September 24, 2023
A sweet class divide romance where a Beast of a Duke falls for a beauty with a brain. I loved the fact that Sofie was not your classic beauty, she was more. Not content to find a man to take care of her, she’s spent her life learning about investments to be financially sound in her own right. Not looking for a man, she stumbles upon a beastly duke who only wants to be strong to care for those he loves. But that doesn’t mean he is the type to deny a woman, he wants a wife who is her own person. The whirlwind romance is the perfect blend of grumpy/sunshine. Sofie is everything sweet & light to draw the lightness out of Egan so he can move past the pains of the past. This s truly a fun, quick read.
December 10, 2023
Good things really do come in small packages, as I discovered with my first book by the author Eliana Piers. “A Beauty for a Duke” is a cleverly crafted, light-hearted and enchanting novella. Sofie and Egan are the perfect grumpy-sunshine couple. The completely unexpected twist is the cherry on top. I highly recommend this quick read to any romance fans who enjoy retellings or just may be looking for a new author to adore. It also makes a great palate cleanser between books. I find myself needing more of this wonderful couple and look forward to reading more from Eliana Piers.
I received an E-ARC from the author, and this is my voluntarily given, honest review.
I received an E-ARC from the author, and this is my voluntarily given, honest review.
January 30, 2024
3.5⭐️
If you’re looking for a quick romance with a little spice, then this would be it. At around 100 pages I think it was a little too short for the love to really feel real but there were still a lot of things that I did like about the romance itself. I definitely felt the attraction between the two and the banter was good. I love men who know what they want, and it showed what type of person Egan was to try and put his feelings aside for his best friend. In a short amount of time, I was able to see that Sofie loved her father and had a great relationship with Fia. I did like that there was some spice. I love instant attraction and acting upon feeling but I also love to see the love grow. I am going to read the other novellas included in this series because I love the characters that the author creates and it’s a good break between the slow burn romances.
Thank you to the author for the gifted copy.
If you’re looking for a quick romance with a little spice, then this would be it. At around 100 pages I think it was a little too short for the love to really feel real but there were still a lot of things that I did like about the romance itself. I definitely felt the attraction between the two and the banter was good. I love men who know what they want, and it showed what type of person Egan was to try and put his feelings aside for his best friend. In a short amount of time, I was able to see that Sofie loved her father and had a great relationship with Fia. I did like that there was some spice. I love instant attraction and acting upon feeling but I also love to see the love grow. I am going to read the other novellas included in this series because I love the characters that the author creates and it’s a good break between the slow burn romances.
Thank you to the author for the gifted copy.
September 22, 2023
Sofie, a tavern owner’s daughter looking for independence, really wants to attend a lecture about investing, but finding her way there might just be impossible. Per chance she overhears Egan, a gruff hunky Scottish kilt-wearing duke, and his friend George mentioning where they’re heading and she invites herself and her best friend Fia along for the trip.
Egan fancies Sofie, but George saw her first… or did he?
Love at first sight, grumpy/sunshine, road trip and mistletoe kisses all rolled into one fun, fast and steamy little yuletide novella!
Egan fancies Sofie, but George saw her first… or did he?
Love at first sight, grumpy/sunshine, road trip and mistletoe kisses all rolled into one fun, fast and steamy little yuletide novella!
September 25, 2024
Novella, got it. But this was so incomplete.
Beauty meets Beast, Beauty convinces Beast and his friend to take her and her friend to a railroad convention because a beauty also has brains. They go to said convention posing as husband and wife, they go to dinner while the friends elope, they have sex repeatedly. Beauty almost gets shot. They’re engaged. The end.
That’s the book summed up. Don’t waste your time getting invested in a subpar story that will not follow through on providing a good story.
Beauty meets Beast, Beauty convinces Beast and his friend to take her and her friend to a railroad convention because a beauty also has brains. They go to said convention posing as husband and wife, they go to dinner while the friends elope, they have sex repeatedly. Beauty almost gets shot. They’re engaged. The end.
That’s the book summed up. Don’t waste your time getting invested in a subpar story that will not follow through on providing a good story.
September 21, 2023
What an enjoyable short story in the Dukes for Christmas Fairytale novella series in A Beauty for the Duke. Eliana Piers has written a feel good novella, filled it with characters that come off the pages and pull you into their tale, with entertaining secondary characters, witty banter, a bit steamy with a Christmas setting makes for that is an enjoyable plot that will keep you reading until the end.
September 22, 2023
A BEAUTY MEETS A GRUMPY BEAST
Another charming story by Eliana Piers I enjoyed reading and loved the characters, which were already partly introduced in the „Good Duke Gone“ series.
The love story between the beautiful barmaid Sophie and the grumpy Scottish duke Egain is full of witty banters and steamy chemistry.
If you like funny, passionate and steamy Regency romances, you will enjoy this short novella.
Another charming story by Eliana Piers I enjoyed reading and loved the characters, which were already partly introduced in the „Good Duke Gone“ series.
The love story between the beautiful barmaid Sophie and the grumpy Scottish duke Egain is full of witty banters and steamy chemistry.
If you like funny, passionate and steamy Regency romances, you will enjoy this short novella.
September 22, 2023
Good short story
It is a very short romance, and everything happens quickly: they meet, are instantly attracted to each other, and fall in love within 24 hours. Everything is well related, and we go into this romance. The evolution of their feelings is efficient, and I enjoyed reading this short story.
This book is a good choice for a short story.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
It is a very short romance, and everything happens quickly: they meet, are instantly attracted to each other, and fall in love within 24 hours. Everything is well related, and we go into this romance. The evolution of their feelings is efficient, and I enjoyed reading this short story.
This book is a good choice for a short story.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 23, 2023
I loved this book! This was such a great short story, Sofie is a tavern girl but wants to stay independent. She happens to overhear a conversation between 2 patrons & invites herself & her friend on their trip to the Railway Convention. Egan & Sofie find themselves thrown together the whole trip! And this story was just perfect! It had some great scenes & it was steamy! Highly recommend this author & book!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews