An Inconvenient Duke

Starred review from November 25, 2019
The enchanting first Regency romance in the Lords of the Armory series from Harrington (What a Lord Wants) introduces a pair of magnetic characters on the hunt for justice. Elise Braddock and her best friend, Danielle Williams, work for an organization called Nightingale that helps battered women escape from their abusers. When Elise dies, her brother Marcus Braddock, Duke of Hampton, investigates and learns that Elise was murdered because of her work with Nightingale. Now he seeks to find her killer, avenge her death, and protect Danielle from a similar fate. As mutual attraction simmers between Marcus and Danielle, he urges her to abandon her work with Nightingale to keep herself safe, but she adamantly refuses. Intelligent dialogue makes it easy for readers to understand both sides of the argument. Both Marcus and Danielle are dynamic and forward-thinking protagonists, made all the more lovable by their mutual determination to use their positions in society to help the less fortunate. Harrington combines suspenseful mystery and charming romance in this compulsively readable treat. Agent: Sarah Younger, Nancy Yost Literary.

Starred review from January 1, 2020

Off fighting Napoleon, Gen. Marcus Braddock receives word from his sister Elise's best friend, the Honorable Danielle Williams, that Elise has died in an accident. Upon his return, now carrying the title Duke of Hampton for his bravery, Marcus discovers evidence that proves his sister may have been murdered. Danielle suspects Elise's death may have involve the secret organization Danielle runs for women in abusive relationships. Marcus, who has been struggling to transition from the battlefield to everyday life, sees an opportunity to hunt down his sister's killer while also attempting to talk Danielle out of her determined quest. The duo risk it all, including their hearts, as they go up against a shadowy organization that may be larger than first expected. VERDICT Action, suspense, seduction, and two determined lovers fighting for what is right provide a host of reasons to read well into the night. Danielle is an extremely compelling heroine who is willing to forgo her own prospects to correct wrongdoing. When combined with Marcus's conviction and refusal to abandon those he cares about, they make a perfect pair to kick off Hampton's (How I Married a Marquess) latest Regency series.--Kellie Tilton, Univ. of Cincinnati Blue Ash

Copyright 2020 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

February 1, 2020
Marcus is home from war and missing the days when his position as a general gave him purpose. He finds a letter that indicates his younger sister, Elise, may not have died after falling off of a horse, as previously thought. He questions her best friend, Danielle, and discovers that Danielle helps women in abusive relationships find new lives through a secret network. They learn that Elise was involved, and someone hurt her as a result of her work. As they spend more time together trying to solve the mystery, they realize they are in love. Harrington casts light on the plight of women in the 1800s via Danielle's work to help those with few rights. Marcus' struggle to find a worthy battle to commit himself to after the war makes him an appealing hero, especially as he works hard to protect his family. Harrington is a rising star in historical romance, and this tale of romantic suspense delivers plenty of both love and danger. Fans of Amanda Quick, Grace Burrowes, and Ella Quinn may also enjoy this one.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2020, American Library Association.)