Description:
Ruined by scandal, Georgiana bargains with a duke to regain her place in Society. But their pretend friendship sparks real love, risking reputations, duty, and unexpected happily-ever-afters.
Eight months after a stolen kiss ruined her reputation, Miss Georgiana Wood is a recluse, cast out of Society without any hope of ever finding a suitable match. Longing for redemption, she never expects her salvation to arrive in the form of a handsome, temperamental duke.
After a failed bargain left the Duke of Marlow without a promised wife and heir, he must face courtship a final time. He plans to entice his future bride with a priceless family heirloom--one now in the possession of Miss Wood, who agrees to return it if he takes her on three outings in London during the Season to restore her reputation.
As the pair navigate Society's expectations and whispered gossip, Marlow begins to see Georgiana as an ally and a friend. Her wit and courage, grace and allure far exceed that of the eligible ladies he intended to court, and soon, he'd do almost anything to secure her happiness.
As Marlow wrestles with duty and desire, Georgiana begins to hope that she could be loved for who she truly is. When hearts are tested, truth and secrets revealed, will love be enough to risk it all?
Review Quotes:
"Offers readers a valuable lesson: supportive friends and family are a great help, but in the final analysis we must learn to recognize our own failings, strive to do better, and make sacrifices to win a prize of true value. Recommended."
-- "Historical Novel Society" (5/4/2026 12:00:00 AM)