Author: Darcy Burke
Series: Love is All Around
Purchase: Amazon
This is the first book written by Darcy Burke I have read in which a main character gets sick (to a degree). This, I believe, gave a small touch of suspense.
Calder may have seemed coldhearted, but I couldn't help but feel bad for him the whole time. I was just hoping he would be redeemed sooner rather than later.
I was surprised by the length of the book. This books consists of ten (eleven including the epilogue) chapters.
Rating: 😀😀😀😀😀
Showing posts with label Regency. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Regency. Show all posts
Saturday, June 27, 2020
Wednesday, May 13, 2020
Review: A Duke Will Never Do
This is the third book in the Spitfire Society trilogy. This has a major tie in to The Duke of Distraction (Untouchables), which I absolutely love.
There are so many quotes I could use as examples of Mrs. Burke's amazing writing. That includes one about "aggressive goats" that I thought was funny. Was the same excuse used more than once? Was the real reason know? I wondered.
"You were a light in the darkness when I needed guidance most." This is a near perfect wording of why I love brooding male characters. Who would not love to be the one that brings love in to the life of someone that believed they were unworthy of it?
Rating: 😃😃😃😃😃
*** I voluntarily requested to read and review an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book (via bookfunnel).
Monday, March 2, 2020
Review: The Gift of the Marquee
Author: Darcy Burke
Book #: 2
Format: e-book
Purchase: Amazon
Series: Love is All Around
Gabriel Kirkwood lost his mother and sister during child birth. Unfortunately, it is not unlikely that many women lost their lives while giving birth. Poppy, Gabriel's wife, lost her mother during child birth as well.
When a single woman gives birth, memories of Gabriel's mother flood back to him. He becomes more broody than before.
As always, Mrs. Burke makes each character seem as if they were once real people.
I am looking forward to reading Calder's story.
Rating: 😃😃😃😃😃
Friday, January 31, 2020
Cover Reveal: A Duke Will Never Do
Blurb
From the USA Today bestselling author of The Untouchables series comes your next Regency obsession: The Spitfire Society... Meet the smart, independent women who’ve decided they don’t need Society’s rules, their families’ expectations, or, most importantly, a husband. But just because they don’t need a man doesn’t mean they might not want one.
After failing on the Marriage Mart, Jane Pemberton has two choices: submit to her parents’ edict to marry their boring neighbor or become a self-declared spinster and take up residence in the official headquarters of the Spitfire Society. It’s really no choice at all, and Jane is eager to embrace her newfound independence. She soon finds an unconscious viscount on her doorstep and nurses him back to health. When he offers to compensate her, she requests payment in the form of private instruction of a scandalous and intimate kind.
Having spiraled into a self-destructive abyss following the murder of his parents, Anthony, Viscount Colton, physically recovers under the care of an alluring spitfire. But it is her charm and flirtatiousness that soothes his soul and arouses his desire—until an extortion scheme forces him to face the sins of his past. Now, to save the woman who’s given him everything he lost and more, he’ll have to pay the ultimate price: his heart.
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Wednesday, March 6, 2019
Book Blast: Elizabeth in the New World
This post is part of a virtual book tour organized by Goddess Fish Promotions. Maggie Mooha will be awarding $15 Boroughs Bucks to 2 randomly drawn winners via rafflecopter during the tour. Click on the tour banner to see the other stops on the tour.
Jane Austen's most famous lovers, Darcy and Elizabeth, return in a tale of romance, adventure, and danger set in the heart of the Caribbean.
NO GREATER LOVE
Darcy’s sudden, passionate kiss sweeps Elizabeth into a bliss she has never known...but their love is short-lived. On a field of honor, Wickham, once again, engages in an irresponsible act, which leaves Darcy mortally wounded and Elizabeth broken. Refusing to leave Darcy’s side, the last vestiges of her reputation are shattered, and when Elizabeth sees Darcy in his coffin, she is ruined in more ways than one. Devastated and without hope, reluctantly she agrees to accompany friends to Grenada, a Caribbean island on the brink of revolution.
Things are not what they seem. Darcy hasn’t died, but Elizabeth is gone and he fears it is too late to recapture what he has lost. As he struggles to recuperate, he must put aside his pride and his heritage in order to find the only woman he will ever love. Never before has Darcy sacrificed so much for a passion he fought against so vehemently. And never before has Elizabeth’s strength of character been stronger - it is the only thing standing between her and an end that doesn’t include Darcy.
Read an Excerpt:
“Papa, are you in there? I would like to speak to you before you go,” Elizabeth called through the study door.
Mr. Bennet was already at the door, opening it. Elizabeth entered and began to speak but stopped short when she saw Darcy. For a moment, she was speechless.
Mr. Bennet looked from one to the other. It was Darcy who spoke first.
He cleared his throat. “Good morning, Miss Bennet. I am sorry that we are not meeting under happier circumstances. I will take my leave, so that you may speak to your father alone.” He made his way toward her to the door.
As if awakened from a dream, she suddenly cried, “No,” before he reached the door. He stopped, a surprised look on his face. They both looked at Mr. Bennet.
“Lizzy,” Mr. Bennet offered. “I think perhaps you might want to have a word with Mr. Darcy. I will go and have my breakfast.” He tried to sound lighthearted, but Elizabeth knew he was hiding his dread from her.
As soon as they were alone, Elizabeth went to the window. She could not look in Darcy’s face. She was afraid her countenance would reveal all the tumult of emotions she was feeling.
“Mr. Darcy, why are you here?” she asked finally.
“Your father asked me to be his second in his duel with Mr. Wickham. He felt that I, being a gentleman, would possess the necessary knowledge and…” he groped for the word, “authority, to see that all proceeded fairly with adherence to the rules.”
“Rules?” she cried and turned upon him. “Rules. Mr. Darcy, what good can come of this? Can you not do something to stop it? My father—” Her voice broke and she turned away from him once more, burying her face in her handkerchief. “My father is an elderly man, a country gentleman. What does he know of dueling?” The tears welled in her eyes, and then broke free and ran down her cheeks. She wished he would rush to her and throw his arms around her and hold her to his breast. Instead, he stood apart and spoke calmly.
“I do think that some accord can be reached without resorting to violence,” he said.
About the Author:
Most of my career, I’ve been a music teacher. I’ve found music such a help when crafting a story. I actually see the structure of a book as if it was a musical composition. As for the nuts and bolts of my life, I grew up in the Chicago area and was a teacher there for quite a few years. I had a chance to teach at an international school in Dar Es Salaam in Tanzania, and I spent two years there. After adopting my son, we spent four years at an international school in the Philippines. During that time, I began writing. Now I live in the western U.S.
Most of my work has been screenplays. Over the years, I’ve won or placed well in competitions. I’m telling you this so you don’t think I sat down one day and wrote a novel out of the blue. I’ve spent many years working and learning.
A long time ago someone called me “an insatiable romantic.” I hope that's still true.
Visit with Maggie –
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Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/mmooha
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BUY LINKS:
http://www.boroughspublishinggroup.com/books/elizabeth-new-world
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/elizabeth-in-the-new-world-maggie-mooha/1129784411?ean=2940155857334
https://www.amazon.com//dp/B07JP9KXDS
https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/elizabeth-in-the-new-world
https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/903159
https://linkmaker.itunes.apple.com/en-us/details/1440196638?country=us&mediaType=books&term=Maggie+Mooha&type=book
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Monday, March 4, 2019
Book Blast: Her Caprice
GENRE: Historical Romance (Regency)
BLURB:
Since Beatrice Thornton was 13 years old she's been living with a secret that could ruin her family forever. Her parents are the only ones who know, and now, seven years later, they are forced to put on a sham for Beatrice's late first Season. The plan, make Beatrice as mousy and ill-clothed as possible so no suitor would consider her. Then they can all escape back to their country home in Dorset to keep the terrible secret safe. But the unthinkable happens... Beatrice meets a man who gives her hope of a normal life, and Beatrice dares to love with horrible consequences.
Captain Henry Gracechurch has resigned his commission after living through the horrors and waste of war. Recently returned from Spain, he is cajoled by his formidable godmother to make an appearance at one of her famous balls. When he sees a young woman abandoned on the dance floor, honour commands him to save the day. Nothing could have prepared him for meeting the person who is a balm to his soul and gives wings to his heart. But winning Beatrice Thornton will take every ounce of courage he has, and this is a war he will win, no matter the cost.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Excerpt:
“Always the hero,” Fox stated, appearing from the ballroom as Henry trained his eyes down the hall where Miss Thornton had disappeared. “But it’s caddish to give a girl hopes, Harry. Particularly such a dull-looking mouse.”
Henry’s jaw set. It hadn’t been like that. Meeting Miss Thornton had been more like finding a brother-soldier, someone whose warm laughter and ready wit had plucked him out of the madness of Spain and put his feet down on the soil of England. For a few brief minutes, she’d made him feel that he was not wholly alien here.
In the face of that, the fashion of her dress was totally irrelevant.
Henry followed Fox into the ballroom again and they watched the dancers until Henry put the back of his hand to his mouth, yawning. When Miss Thornton left, all his energy had seemed to go with her, and the weariness that was a massive wave he’d been outrunning since Spain was finally going to break.
“You should be in bed,” Fox noted, stifling his own yawn. He raised his voice over the violins and noise of the party. “Speaking of which…. Where—?”
The music came to an uneven halt and the long lines of dancers froze like grappling statues. “Dear guests—” A voice rang out from a tiny woman at the dais. Lady Sherbourne. “I had hoped for an exciting party, but did not dare pray for something so memorable. London has brought out one of its finest fogs for us.”
Talk rumbled through the room.
“That’s torn it,” muttered a man to Henry’s right. “Can’t leave now. I’m for the library sofa. Every man for himself.”
Gentlemen closest to the garden doors swung them wide, displaying a thick wall of fog that rolled through the crowd like a malevolent guest, arriving late and sending dangerous greetings left and right.
Henry’s heart skittered to a stop. How long had it been since Miss Thornton left? A quarter of an hour? More? The answer made him sick. It was too late to chase after them.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
AUTHOR Bio :
Keira Dominguez graduated from BYU with a B.A. in Humanities and lives in Portland, Oregon with her husband and five children.
For the last decade, she has co-authored The Uncrushable Jersey Dress, a blog and Facebook page dedicated to mid-century author, Betty Neels. Cultivating this corner of fandom confirmed the suspicion that people who like sweet romances are as smart, funny, and are as interesting as readers of any other genre.
When Keira is not busy avoiding volunteerism at her kids’ schools like it is the literal plague, she enjoys scoring a deal at Goodwill, repainting her rooms an unnecessary amount of times, and being seized by sudden enthusiasms.
Keira Dominguez will be awarding $15 in Boroughs Bucks to 2 randomly drawn winners via rafflecopter during the tour.
Saturday, March 2, 2019
[400th Post] Blog Tour: The Duke of Distraction
The Duke of Distraction, an all-new historical standalone from USA Today bestselling author Darcy Burke, is available now!
After witnessing how love embittered his uncle and broke his father, Felix Havers, Earl of Ware vows never to love. He conceals his emotions behind a wall of wit and charm, and is celebrated as the master of entertainments—parties, picnics, races. When his best friend’s wallflower sister needs to find a husband, he promises to make her the toast of London... without losing his heart.
Miss Sarah Colton has given up on the pursuit of marriage. When her parents learn she intends to open a millinery shop, they give her an ultimatum: choose a husband or they’ll do it for her. She accepts Felix’s help, never imagining their scheme will ignite a mutual attraction neither of them dare indulge. But when tragedy strikes, can they heal each other or will the demons of Felix’s past consume them both?
Excerpt:
“It’s time for you to marry,” Father said, surprising no one. Or so Sarah assumed. Anthony knew how desperately they wanted her to marry, and she had to think Felix did too. Of course he did. Sarah was the first person to complain about the pressure they applied.
“Past time, one might say,” Sarah murmured and tried not to send an exasperated look toward her mother.
“There’s no need to be saucy,” Mother said tartly.
“Why must Felix and I be privy to Sarah’s humiliation?” Anthony asked.
Humiliation? Sarah had been annoyed, mildly embarrassed even, but not humiliated. At least not until now. She tossed a withering stare at her brother. He had the grace to wince and look away.
“There is a reason,” Mother said before inclining her head toward Sarah’s father.
Father coughed. “Er, yes. We wondered if it might make sense for you, Felix, to wed Sarah.”
Humiliation didn’t begin to describe the emotion swirling inside Sarah and erupting in her cheeks. Surely they were about to catch fire.
She would have snapped at her father or mother or both, but words simply wouldn’t come.
Anthony stood. “You can’t ambush Felix like that!” At Sarah’s intake of breath, he added, “Or Sarah.”
Sarah didn’t bother sending him another acid glare.
Their mother pursed her lips at Anthony. “We’re not ambushing him. Felix is like family. He’s well aware of Sarah’s sad state.”
Oh, this was just getting better and better. Now she was in a sad state?
“Furthermore, Felix is in need of a wife. Your father and I discussed it, and we think this is an excellent match.”
Sarah couldn’t bear to meet Felix’s gaze, so she stared at the floor. Had the patterned carpet always had that odd mushroom shape next to the leg of the settee?
“I’m glad you discussed it,” Anthony said with a great deal of sarcasm. “You might have discussed it with Felix, however.” He looked toward Felix. “Did they?”
Now Sarah chanced a look at him. Felix shook his head. To his credit, he didn’t look surprised or annoyed or pale or anything other than what he’d appeared since she’d arrived: uncomfortable.
About Darcy:
Darcy Burke is the USA Today Bestselling Author of sexy, emotional historical and contemporary romance. Darcy wrote her first book at age 11, a happily ever after about a swan addicted to magic and the female swan who loved him, with exceedingly poor illustrations. Join her reader club at Reader Club. A native Oregonian, Darcy lives on the edge of wine country with her guitar-strumming husband, their two hilarious kids who seem to have inherited the writing gene, two Bengal cats and a third cat named after a fruit.
Tuesday, February 26, 2019
Release Blitz: The Duke of Distraction
The Duke of Distraction, an all-new historical standalone from USA Today bestselling author Darcy Burke, is available now!
After witnessing how love embittered his uncle and broke his father, Felix Havers, Earl of Ware vows never to love. He conceals his emotions behind a wall of wit and charm, and is celebrated as the master of entertainments—parties, picnics, races. When his best friend’s wallflower sister needs to find a husband, he promises to make her the toast of London... without losing his heart.
Miss Sarah Colton has given up on the pursuit of marriage. When her parents learn she intends to open a millinery shop, they give her an ultimatum: choose a husband or they’ll do it for her. She accepts Felix’s help, never imagining their scheme will ignite a mutual attraction neither of them dare indulge. But when tragedy strikes, can they heal each other or will the demons of Felix’s past consume them both?
Download your copy today!
Amazon: https://amzn.to/2QMJA0t
AppleBooks: https://apple.co/2RUDNDt
Amazon Worldwide: http://mybook.to/DukeofDistraction
Nook: http://bit.ly/2C6EVOP
Kobo: http://bit.ly/2QrxHxr
Add to GoodReads: http://bit.ly/2RPqiVr
About Darcy:
Darcy Burke is the USA Today Bestselling Author of sexy, emotional historical and contemporary romance. Darcy wrote her first book at age 11, a happily ever after about a swan addicted to magic and the female swan who loved him, with exceedingly poor illustrations. Join her reader club at http://www.darcyburke.com/readerclub. A native Oregonian, Darcy lives on the edge of wine country with her guitar-strumming husband, their two hilarious kids who seem to have inherited the writing gene, two Bengal cats and a third cat named after a fruit.
Connect with Darcy:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DarcyBurkeFans
Twitter: https://twitter.com/darcyburke
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/darcyburkewrite/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darcyburkeauthor/
Website: http://www.darcyburke.com
Stay up to date with Darcy by joining her Reader Club today:
Thursday, December 13, 2018
Cover Reveal: The Duke of Distraction
The Duke of Distraction, an all-new historical standalone from USA Today bestselling author Darcy Burke, is coming February 26th!
After witnessing how love embittered his uncle and broke his father, Felix Havers, Earl of Ware vows never to love. He conceals his emotions behind a wall of wit and charm, and is celebrated as the master of entertainments—parties, picnics, races. When his best friend’s wallflower sister needs to find a husband, he promises to make her the toast of London... without losing his heart.
Miss Sarah Colton has given up on the pursuit of marriage. When her parents learn she intends to open a millinery shop, they give her an ultimatum: choose a husband or they’ll do it for her. She accepts Felix’s help, never imagining their scheme will ignite a mutual attraction neither of them dare indulge. But when tragedy strikes, can they heal each other or will the demons of Felix’s past consume them both?
Pre-order your copy today!
Amazon: https://amzn.to/2QMJA0t
AppleBooks: https://apple.co/2RUDNDt
Amazon Worldwide: http://mybook.to/DukeofDistraction
Nook: http://bit.ly/2C6EVOP
Kobo: http://bit.ly/2QrxHxr
Add to GoodReads: http://bit.ly/2RPqiVr
Cover designer: Hang Le
Photographer: Period Images
About Darcy:
Darcy Burke is the USA Today Bestselling Author of sexy, emotional historical and contemporary romance. Darcy wrote her first book at age 11, a happily ever after about a swan addicted to magic and the female swan who loved him, with exceedingly poor illustrations. Join her reader club at http://www.darcyburke.com/readerclub. A native Oregonian, Darcy lives on the edge of wine country with her guitar-strumming husband, their two hilarious kids who seem to have inherited the writing gene, two Bengal cats and a third cat named after a fruit.
Connect with Darcy:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DarcyBurkeFans
Twitter: https://twitter.com/darcyburke
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/darcyburkewrite/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darcyburkeauthor/
Website: http://www.darcyburke.com
Stay up to date with Darcy by joining her Reader Club today:
Tuesday, July 31, 2018
Release Day Celebration: Craven House Collection
Title: Craven House Collection
Author: Christina McKnight
Genre: Historical Romance, Regency
Release Date: July 31, 2018
Author: Christina McKnight
Genre: Historical Romance, Regency
Release Date: July 31, 2018
Scandal is second nature to the children of London’s most notorious madame. Growing up in the unconventional Craven House, these four sisters become independent, determined women, perfect matches for the roguish lords that love them. Mayfair just got a lot more wicked
...and a lot more fun.
The Thief Steals Her Earl, Book 1
To save her family from bankruptcy, Miss Judith Pengarden must be very bad—but when she breaks into the stalwart Earl of Cartwright’s home, it’s not just his family heirlooms she steals, but his heart too.
The Mistress Enchants Her Marquis, Book 2
The Marquis of Ridgefield longs for tradition and routine, two things which the rebellious hellion Miss Samantha Pengarden can’t provide. Then why does he feel so drawn to her?
The Madame Catches Her Duke, Book 3
Longstanding secrets and deception have made Marce Davenport and the Duke of Harwich enemies. But when their agreement ends and they face a change to the lives they’ve known, they’ll discover the line between hate and the love of a lifetime is finer than they ever thought possible.
The Gambler Wagers Her Baron, Book 4
Miss Payton Samuels knows that the only person she can rely on is herself, until she becomes governess to Lord Ashford’s rambunctious children. A gambler knows not to wager it all, yet the longer Payton stays with Lord Ashford and his family, the more willing she is to risk it all for her happily ever after.
Author Bio:
USA TODAY Bestselling Author Christina McKnight writes emotional and intricate Regency Romance with rebellious women and maverick heroes.
USA TODAY Bestselling Author Christina McKnight writes emotional and intricate Regency Romance with rebellious women and maverick heroes.
Her books combine romance and mystery, exploring themes of redemption and forgiveness. When not writing she enjoys coffee, wine, traveling the world, and watching television.
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Friday, July 13, 2018
First Look: How The Earl Entices
Title: How the Earl Entices
Author: Anna Harrington
Release Date: September 11, 2018
Publisher: Self-published
Series: Capturing the Carlisles #4
Genres: Regency Romance
Word Count: 95K
Format: print and digital
Synopsis:
WHEN OLD DECEPTIONS …
Ross Carlisle, Earl of Spalding, has dedicated his life to serving his country. When he discovers secrets that could endanger England, he’s forced into an impossible situation—commit treason and race to London to clear his name before the crown turns against him. He’s prepared to abandon everything he possesses in order to protect England, including his life…until he crosses paths with a woman who’s keeping her own secrets.
LEAD TO NEW DESIRES
Ten years ago, Grace Alden fled London in order to protect her son, only to come face-to-face with that past when Ross collapses on her doorstep. They strike a deal—she’ll help him travel to London if he helps her reclaim her son’s inheritance. But as old deceptions turn into new desires, will they be willing to sacrifice everything they hold dear in order to protect the people they love?
Add to Goodreads: http://bit.ly/2NoF2Zt
HOW THE EARL ENTICES Excerpt
Copyright © 2018 Anna Harrington
“You are not a gentleman.” Her words were so soft that they were nearly lost beneath the rain pounding against the roof. “You are despicable.”
She held her breath and stood her ground, waiting for him to unleash his fury on her. It was what Vincent would have done. Just like her brother-in-law, would this stranger have enjoyed hurting her?
But instead of a harsh warning—or making good on his threat to tie her up—he forced a tight smile and turned back to mutter into the fire, “So much more than you know.”
He was quickly lost in his own thoughts, but Grace knew he was still aware of her and every move she made. If she attempted to run, he would pounce before she reached the door.
Entering her bedroom, she hesitated in the doorway. Part of her contemplated defying him and closing the door anyway. Would serve him right! But something in her gut told her not to press him. So far he’d kept true to his word and not attempted to hurt her, and the last thing she should do was provoke his anger. The night was half over now; by dawn the storm would be weakening, and then he’d be gone. She only had to wait him out.
Even knowing that, though, her fingers trembled as she shrugged out of the wet coat, then reached for her dress and undergarments in her dresser. The room was dark, and the shadows hid her from view, yet she took repeated glances over her shoulder to make certain he still kept his distance, still standing at the fireplace with his eyes focused on the flames.
After she’d changed into her dress and wrapped a shawl securely around her shoulders, she blew out a deep, silent breath of relief. Both at finally being properly dressed and that the stranger hadn’t moved from where she’d left him.
Her hands fumbled with putting up her damp hair as she emerged from the bedroom, with two hairpins between her lips. Grudgingly, she mumbled around them, “Thank you for not—”
He glanced up from the fire as she stepped from the shadows, his face fully visible in the firelight.
She halted in mid-step, her breath catching in her throat at the intensity of his stare as it trailed slowly over her. Not lasciviously, not predaciously—she’d expected that. Instead, he gazed at her in an assessing manner, a look filled with such deliberate aloofness that she couldn’t help but see the arrogant reserve beneath, the cool detachment…
At that moment, a long-forgotten memory rushed over her like a tidal wave. She placed him in her mind, as clearly as the moment she first saw him over ten years earlier at that crowded ball in London, and she shuddered.
Ross Carlisle, Viscount Mooreland, heir to the Earl of Spalding…
Dear God—so much worse than a stranger!
About Anna Harrington:
I fell in love with historical romances—and all those dashing Regency heroes!—while living in London, where I studied literature and theatre. I love to travel, fly airplanes, and hike, and when I’m not busy writing, I can usually be found in my garden, tending to my roses. I love to hear from readers and can be reached at anna@annaharringtonbooks.com or follow me on all my social media. And be sure to sign up for my newsletter to be the first to receive exciting news, enter contests, access exclusive content, and more!
Enter to win!!
A grand prize winner will receive a charm bracelet from the 2017 Historical Romance Retreat. A second-place winner will receive a signed set of books 1-3 of the Capturing the Carlisles series. A third-place winner will receive an autographed copy of AS THE DEVIL DARES.
Saturday, June 16, 2018
[300th Blog Post] First Look: The Duke I Tempted
About THE DUKE I TEMPTED
Having overcome financial ruin and redeemed his family name to become the most legendary investor in London, the Duke of Westmead needs to secure his holdings by producing an heir. Which means he must find a wife who won’t discover his secret craving to spend his nights on his knees—or make demands on his long scarred-over heart.
Poppy Cavendish is not that type of woman. An ambitious self-taught botanist designing the garden ballroom in which Westmead plans to woo a bride, Poppy has struggled against convention all her life to secure her hard-won independence. She wants the capital to expand her exotic nursery business—not a husband.
But there is something so compelling about Westmead, with his starchy bearing and impossibly kind eyes—that when an accidental scandal makes marriage to the duke the only means to save her nursery, Poppy worries she wants more than the title he is offering. The arrangement is meant to be just business. A greenhouse for an heir. But Poppy yearns to unravel her husband’s secrets—and to tempt the duke to risk his heart.
On Sale in Digital: July 31, 2018
Pre-Order this title at these online retailers:
Read and exclusive excerpt from THE DUKE I TEMPTED:
The Duke of Westmead cleared his throat. “Given I rebuked you for your lack of transparency, Miss Cavendish, honor obliges I disclose to you that I became rather dismayed when I learned you were betrothed. I suppose I thought, how dare she? How dare she squander her gifts on so middling a creature as Mr. Raridan? Or, more to the point, on anyone?”
Poppy didn’t speak. She couldn’t, because her breath was caught. She had never heard herself described in such terms by anyone. How could she, when the local gentry who had known her all her life told a different story about her? One of an eccentric spinster who coarsened herself with commercial enterprise. An arrogant, unlikeable woman, unhealthily obsessed with plants.
“Thank you,” she said, hoping her voice did not convey how deeply what he said affected her. It would not do to seem overly moved.
He shrugged, as though his words were unremarkable. As though such assessments of her worth were lobbed at her all day.
The carriage she had been waiting for at long last appeared through the stable gates and rolled up to the bottom of the steps.
“Miss Cavendish, in light of my lapse of judgment, I fully understand if you do not wish to return to Westhaven. But if my sister believes me guilty of ruining her plans I shall have to live with her mortal disapproval. I don’t suppose I could prevail on you to reconsider finishing your work? I assure you that I will not attempt to intercede in so much as the placement of a vase.”
The contours of his face should not have a say in her decision and yet she could not help but admire them, as the fading light danced across the planes that made him sometimes handsome, sometimes fierce.
Or perhaps it was only the way that he looked at her. As if her respect meant something to him. As if she did.
“Very well,” she said. “I shall return in the morning. For Lady Constance’s sake.”
After just a beat too long, he nodded. “I’m glad to hear it. For Lady Constance’s sake.”
And then he smiled.
Boyishly and quick and warm, like the sun darting out from a bank of clouds. It was so unexpected and disarming that without thinking, she craned her face towards his to get a better view of it. Their eyes met, and a chill ran down her spine. Because for just a moment, she thought he might lean in, close the distance, and kiss her.
No. Not thought he might. Wanted him to.
She wanted him to kiss her.
Instead, he folded his mouth back into its usual grim line, bent in a deep bow and offered her his hand to help her into the carriage.
But it did not escape her notice that he held her fingers just a beat too long as he said: “Be well, Miss Cavendish.”
Author Bio:
Scarlett Peckham fell in love with romance novels as a child, sneaking paperbacks from the stash in her grandmother's closet. By the time she came of age she had exhausted her library's supply and begun to dream of writing one of her own.
Scarlett studied English at Columbia University and built a career in communications, but in her free hours always returned to her earliest obsession: those delicious, big-hearted books you devour in the dark and can never bear to put down. Her steamy historical romances about alpha heroines have been finalists for the Golden Heart® Award four times. Her debut book, THE DUKE I TEMPTED, will be out July 31, 2018.
Scarlett splits her time between London and Los Angeles. When not reading or writing romance she enjoys pretending to know about wine, discussing The Real Housewives, and cooking enormous pots of soup.
Scarlett is represented by Sarah Younger at the Nancy Yost Literary Agency, and spends far too much time on Instagram and Twitter.
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