Anyone but a Duke

Starred review from October 21, 2019
The enchanting third Sin & Sensibility Victorian romance (after The Girl with the Sweetest Secret) is a series high. After a public rejection in London, Sarah, the youngest Bumgarten sister, retreats to the empty country estate of her brother-in-law, Ashton Graham, but after the Graham family land is targeted by thieves, the retreat becomes less than idyllic. When Arthur Graham, Ashton’s brother and the sixth Duke of Meridian, returns to England after years abroad, he’s surprised to find Sarah commanding his family home. A mysterious attacker injures Arthur upon arrival, and Sarah, not recognizing the Duke, nurses him back to health. Hoping to get to the bottom of who attacked him and why his brother is absent, Arthur takes on a fake identity to investigate. Working together to defend the property, Sarah and Arthur are instantly drawn to each other, but Arthur’s lie stands between them. Sarah is a delightful heroine, and fan favorite Uncle Red is back to provide comic relief. Witty banter, strong chemistry, and a dollop of mystery propel this charming romance. Agent: Gail Fortune, Talbot Fortune Agency.