Ducal Encounters Series 2 Series by Wendy Soliman

Zachary Sheridan, the Duke of Winchester, hopes to heal the breach between the two branches of his family when he invites his five cousins, recently returned to England after a ten year absence in America, to stay with him and his new duchess at Winchester Park. Eleanor Sheridan barely remembers the land of her birth and nervously voices her concerns about her family’s uncertain future to a man whom she mistakes for a groom... moreZachary Sheridan, the Duke of Winchester, hopes to heal the breach between the two branches of his family when he invites his five cousins, recently returned to England after a ten year absence in America, to stay with him and his new duchess at Winchester Park. Eleanor Sheridan barely remembers the land of her birth and nervously voices her concerns about her family’s uncertain future to a man whom she mistakes for a groom. The Honourable Matthew Wainwright is actually the gentleman sent to negotiate with her brother Jon regarding the leasing of several steamships. As head of his branch of the family, Jon’s success in this venture is vital if he is to secure his siblings’ future. Stricken with remorse when she discovers Matthew’s true identity, Ellie fears he will use her indiscreet confidences to his own advantage. Why then does she feel inexorably drawn towards this glamorous younger brother of an earl? When aspects of Ellie’s life in America threaten to destroy them all, Zach sees a way to resolve matters and lay to rest the dispute that has divided the family since his father’s day. However, he can only achieve this goal with Matthew’s help. Can Matthew put aside former loyalties to aid the duke’s quest, even though he will never be in a position to seek the hand of the lady who has stolen his heart… less

Calpurnia Garrard is convinced that her husband’s death was no accident. In desperation she tries to persuade the Duke of Winchester to intercede. But Zach’s duchess almost lost her life giving birth to his second son and the duke is not receiving visitors. Driving away from Winchester Park, Callie’s horse bolts. Alfie Sheridan manages to rescue her, listens to Callie’s story and is moved by the lovely young widow’s plight... moreCalpurnia Garrard is convinced that her husband’s death was no accident. In desperation she tries to persuade the Duke of Winchester to intercede. But Zach’s duchess almost lost her life giving birth to his second son and the duke is not receiving visitors. Driving away from Winchester Park, Callie’s horse bolts. Alfie Sheridan manages to rescue her, listens to Callie’s story and is moved by the lovely young widow’s plight. But her husband’s death was ruled to be an accident and Alfie doubts that it will be possible to uncover evidence to the contrary eighteen months after the event. Acting for the duke, Alfie delves deeper into Callie’s affairs, soon discovering all is not as it seems. Someone will go to any lengths to prevent him from getting to the truth, or from developing inappropriate ideas about Callie. As the danger increases, so too does Alfie’s attachment to Callie and his determination to keep her safe, which is all he can do to be of service to her. He is committed to helping his brother make a success of his business ventures and has no time for romance. Besides, Callie has made it clear that she her own reasons for not marrying for a second time. Will Alfie find a way to prove Callie’s suspicions about her husband’s death, save her from the rogue who will go to any lengths to secure her affections, fulfil his obligations to his brother and follow his heart… less

Within three years of returning to English soil after a decade in Boston, Jonathan Sheridan has established his business interests and seen all four of his siblings married. Anxious that the world should know his wealth is a consequence of his own efforts and that he has not depended upon the influence of his cousin Zach, the Duke of Winchester, to make his mark, Jon decides to exert his independence by purchasing an estate for his sole occupation... moreWithin three years of returning to English soil after a decade in Boston, Jonathan Sheridan has established his business interests and seen all four of his siblings married. Anxious that the world should know his wealth is a consequence of his own efforts and that he has not depended upon the influence of his cousin Zach, the Duke of Winchester, to make his mark, Jon decides to exert his independence by purchasing an estate for his sole occupation. Lady Ayla Courtney reaches the heartbreaking decision to sell Felsham Court, the house left to her by her beloved grandmother, since she can’t afford to maintain it. She discovers that Hubert, her sister’s husband, has political ambitions that rest upon Ayla’s cooperation and he challenges her ownership of Felsham Court in order to procure her compliance. Caught up in the middle of the property dispute, Jon should walk away but feels compelled to offer Ayla his help to best Hubert. Taken by her beauty and spirit, he denies his growing attraction towards her and concentrates his efforts upon keeping her safe. For her part, thrown constantly into his company, Ayla’s passions are aroused by the handsome and elusive Jon Sheridan. But she has a guilty secret that’s haunted her since her youth and precludes her from ever forming a permanent attachment to any man. Will Hubert succeed in making Ayla dance to his tune? Can Jon purchase the house without letting his feelings for Ayla run out of control? And can Ayla escape the life-threatening situation that Hubert’s desperation embroils her in? less