Veena’s review of Duchess by Deception (Gilded, Book 1) by Marie Force
Historical Romance published by Zebra 20 Jan 19
I don’t know if this is the author’s first historical or just my first by her, but she successfully makes a transition from her contemporary romances into historical romance. Derek became duke at the young age of six and must marry by his birthday in a few weeks to keep his title. Alas, the current crop of debutantes bore him and he’s seriously considering walking away from everything, until fate delivers his ideal mate digging in his extensive grounds. Ironically, Catherine hates the aristocracy. A match made in heaven? Or not?
Felled by Cupid’s arrow at first sight, Derek takes over the name of his estate manager and proceeds to woo his lady love, who, as it turns out, is an earl’s daughter and running away from a marriage. Derek quickly takes her to Gretna Green and marries her across the anvil and retreats to a cottage on his grounds, having given his estate manager leave. But, as we all know, be careful when you weave a tangled tale, because truth will win out and then all the newfound love and happiness gets buried under it.
In the meantime, Derek had dispatched his cousin to investigate the London scene, but it seems his cousin is also felled by Cupid and ends up running away with Catherine’s sister. It’s a sweet romance with Derek pulling out all stops to court his love. Threaded throughout the story is a sinister thread of danger that surrounds Derek. This is a fun romance that readers will enjoy.
Grade: B
Summary:
Derek Eagan, the dashing Duke of Westwood, is well aware of his looming deadline. But weary of tiresome debutantes, he seeks a respite at his country home in Essex—and encounters a man digging on his property. Except he’s not a man. He’s a very lovely woman. Who suddenly faints at his feet.
Catherine McCabe’s disdain for the aristocracy has already led her to flee an arranged marriage with a boorish Viscount. The last thing she wants is to be waylaid in a Duke’s home. Yet, she is compelled to stay by the handsome, thoughtful man who introduces himself as the Duke’s estate manager.
Derek realizes two things immediately: he is captivated by her delicate beauty, and to figure out what she was up to, Catherine must not know he is the Duke. But as they fall passionately in love, Derek’s lie spins out of control. Will their bond survive his deception, not to mention the scorned Viscount’s pursuit? Most important, can Catherine fall in love all over again—this time with the Duke? ]
No excerpt available.
