The Duke's Stolen Bride

September 15, 2019
To prevent an impoverished governess from marrying the wrong man, a duke lives up to his bad reputation and steals her away. Marian Langley is crouched under a table, hiding from one of her creditors, when she first bumps into Nate, the so-called "depraved" Duke of Warrington. She's heard rumors that he hides courtesans in his home, but at least he lets Marian hide under his table until her creditor leaves. Rather than marry an unappealing rich man to settle her debt, Marian asks Nate to train her in the art of seduction so she can become a courtesan and live on her own terms. Her one condition is that he can't deflower her--she's saving that honor for the highest bidder once she's skilled. At first, Nate isn't interested in ruining a nice girl's prospects. His own beloved wife is dead, and his loneliness requires professional help. But he'll do it to win a bet with his man of affairs. Nate and Marian agree to be discreet, but their lessons quickly pick up steam, and it's not long before someone uncovers their secret. To protect her from ruin, Nate abandons his plans, follows his heart, and insists on marrying her. But before she can claim her happily-ever-after, Marian will have to settle her debt to an unhappy creditor. She isn't exactly a free woman now, but she is much less inhibited. And despite his reputation for depravity, Nate proves his true skill as a lover by following her lead. Depravity is no match for true love in this sweet and steamy read.

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October 1, 2019

Determined to stave off poverty for her family, Marian Langley enters an agreement with the disreputable Duke of Warrington. Nathaniel will teach her the art of seduction, secretly and with virtue intact, so she can become a renowned courtesan. When an angry former suitor blackmails Marian into an engagement, the lessons with Nate turn into a very real elopement, as the two leave for Gretna Green in Scotland. But a loveless marriage is precisely what Marian wanted nothing to do with. VERDICT Readers may question why a seasoned former courtesan sends Marian to a duke for "training" without asking for payment but may find this otherwise rollicking and sensual Regency romp strong enough in drama and action yet light in emotional development to satisfy. While fourth in the "Rogue Files" series, this title does stand alone. Fans of Lorraine Heath and Karen Hawkins will find much to enjoy.--Elizabeth Gabriel, Milwaukee P.L.

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October 15, 2019
Taking into account her family's precarious financial circumstances, Marian Langley has two choices when it comes to her own future. She can accept an offer of marriage from Mr. Lawrence, the town's well-heeled but odious blacksmith. Or she can go into business for herself and become a mistress. There is just one problem with plan B; Marian has no experience when it comes to tempting men into parting with their money for her favors. Fortunately, Nathaniel, duke of Warrington, has just taken up residence at Haverston Hall, and with the right incentive, Marian is certain the Depraved Duke might be willing to teach her everything she needs to know about the art of seduction. The latest sparkling addition to best-selling Jordan's Rogue Files series, following This Scot of Mine (2019), will delight fans with its abundance of sharp wit and sensual sizzle.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2019, American Library Association.)