To Love a Duchess
1864, seven years after the Manipora Massacre, finds former soldier Adam Drummond in London, working for the shadowy branch of the War Office known as the Silent Service. His latest assignment has him undercover, searching for evidence of treason in the late Duke of Marsley’s manor – the same Duke that Drummond knew, and loathed, during his time in India. He plans to get in, get the evidence, and get out; but he failed to make room for the surprising duchess. As they slowly become acquainted, sharing heartaches and memories, an unexpected romance changes their perspectives – and their plans!
Ranney’s use of Manipora, loosely based on the Cawnpore Massacre of 1857, allows readers to explore the dynamics of the Indian Rebellion, through soldier Drummond and civilian Suzanne. A nod to the East India Company, the changing role of the War Office, and the gray area of political support and sponsorship underline Adam and Suzanne’s romance, giving readers context to place the story within, and a mystery to solve in between bouts of kissing between the noblewoman and her most treasured staff member.
