Duke of No Return

Regency Hearts Aflame

By: Amanda Mariel

Narrated by: Charlie Albers

Amidst the glittering ballrooms and afternoon teas of Regency England, a tale of daring escapades and rekindled love unfolds in Duke of No Return.

Lady Frances Rowley is no ordinary debutante—feisty, intelligent, and determined to forge her own destiny, she faces an unwanted marriage that threatens to bind her to a life she dreads. With her options dwindling, Frances turns to the one person she swore never to ask for help: her scandalous childhood friend, the Duke of Hargate, Johnathan Seton.

Johnathan, a member of the notorious secret club known as The Wayward Dukes, lives a life of freedom and vice. When Frances implores him for assistance, he initially refuses, unwilling to entangle himself in her plight. But as her wedding day dawns, the image of Frances walking down the aisle to a fate she despises spurs him into action. In a thrilling and audacious move, Johnathan abducts her from the church, setting off on a tumultuous journey to Gretna Green.

As they traverse the countryside, their rekindled friendship sparks into a blazing passion that neither expected. The journey is fraught with challenges, from relentless pursuers to the internal battles of their own hearts. Frances discovers that the boy she once knew has become a man of depth and complexity, while Johnathan finds himself captivated by the woman Frances has become—strong, vibrant, and unyieldingly determined.

As they reach the fabled destination of Gretna Green, they must confront the ultimate question: can their love survive the trials they've endured, or will it be lost to the perils of their past?

©2024 Amanda Mariel (P)2025 Amanda Mariel

A Duke’s Daring Rescue

She turned to her childhood friend for help—and he rejected her. Then, on her wedding day, he did the unthinkable: he stole her from the altar.
Frances and Johnathan had once been close, so what drove them apart? Why had Johnathan grown so distant? On the run together, Frances begins to uncover the truth: he is far more than the rake society claims him to be.
Their journey is full of daring escapes, unexpected adventures, and the slow rekindling of a friendship—and a love—that never truly faded. He saved her from a terrible marriage, but can they stay one step ahead of those pursuing them? More importantly, can they finally admit the feelings they’ve both long denied?
I loved this adventurous historical romance and would happily recommend it to anyone who enjoys high-stakes escapes, second chances, and a slow-burn love that refuses to be tamed. The audio narration was excellent and brought the story vividly to life.

A Light and Cozy Historical Romance

Duke of No Return is another charming addition to the cozy historical romance genre. I’ve always loved stories of the ton and that era, and this one captured that setting nicely. It’s an easy, enjoyable listen, with Charlie Albers delivering the narration with warmth and polish. Overall, a fun and relaxing read.

Duke of No Return!

This is a charming and heartwarming story about Lady Emily and Alexander, Duke of Hargate, They grew up together and once made a promise. She is to marry a most unsavory man, desperate she calls on Alexander, to honor his promise. He denies her but will he leave her at to marry the horrible man. This is a good story with danger, mystery, suspense, passion, love, truths and an insightful journey.

consign to cruelty?

Can young love/friends last a lifetime? Frances finds herself engaged to a cruel man with money and power. She seek help from her father, but he refused to change his mind where money and power were concerned. She goes to her old friend, but he refuses. Will she be bound to a cruel mam. or will her old friend come through for her? This was an entertaining and exhilarating story I quickly became invested in. I voluntarily listened to a free copy of this and am giving an honest review. The narrator did a great job bringing it to life .

Swoony Love Story!

This is a swoony love story where Francis' old friend, Jonathan, saves her from what would have been a disasterous marriage - at the alter stage!
Of course the inevitable happened and along the way their love for one another awakened and grew.
I loved the moments of caring and tenderness which both of them shared as they encountered a viscious enemy and his henchmen and how they finally reached their very satisfying happy ever after.
I listened to the audiobook version and this was delivered by Charlie Albers in a very satisfying narration.