Duchess by Deception (Gilded Book 1)
1902. Although he must marry by his fast-approaching thirtieth birthday or lose his title, Derek Eagan, the Duke of Westwood, finds the current crop of debutantes tiresome. But then he comes across a beautiful woman digging on his estate. He is powerfully attracted, but after fighting off the advances of a vicious viscount, Catherine McCabe despises all aristocrats. So Derek pretends to be his estate manager. They fall head-over-heels in love, hasten to Scotland and marry; but what will happen when she learns the truth?
This improbable predicament has comic potential, as many a play has demonstrated, but the author leans more towards melodrama. The dashing hero and (for good measure) his equally dashing cousin are noble and respectful of women (well, basically, and they’re very rich); the heroine and her equally beautiful sister are grateful to be rescued from their unwelcome suitor (and delighted to be taught the pleasures of making mad, passionate love); the despicable villains are roundly chastised for their misdeeds.
Americanisms (cookies; okay) do intrude, but if you are looking for a sentimental romance with idealized characters, frequent sexual encounters, and a happy ending achieved after suitable remorse, then look no further.
