Title: Who Needs a Duke
Author: Amanda Mariel
Genre: Historical Romance - Regency
Book Blurb:
Amidst Regency England's matchmaking frenzy, the charitable Lady Catherine Breckenridge and the charismatic Duke of Bedford enter a counterfeit romance, unraveling their convictions as they navigate the fine line between pretense and passion.
Lady Catherine Breckenridge has dedicated herself to charitable pursuits, shunning the allure of romance and marriage. Yet, her family has other plans. As Catherine edges toward her twenty-second year, her kin's determination for a timely union grows resolute. Unexpectedly, salvation arrives in the form of a well-known rogue, the Duke of Bedford.
Charles De Vere, the dashing Duke of Bedford, possesses both charm and fortune, entitling him as one of England's most eligible bachelors. Despite his unsavory reputation, he finds himself besieged by eager mothers and their marriageable daughters at every society gathering. However, this season, he unveils a masterful strategy.
When the Duke proposes a clandestine alliance to Lady Catherine, her pragmatic nature sees the wisdom in his scheme. While he may be a rogue, he's also a trusted confidant of her brother. Moreover, she remains steadfast in her conviction to resist any rogue's enchantments. Neither harbors matrimonial intentions, and their hearts bear no inclinations toward each other. Their plan appears impeccable—until fate casts an unexpected twist.
Excerpt:
“The gardens are lovely at night,” she sighed.
Charles dragged his gaze away from the tempting sight of her pale skin. “Yes. Peaceful.”
“I fear the peace will not last.” She shot him a rueful smile. “We have managed to deceive my brother and Olivia, but what of everyone else? Society will be abuzz with the news of our betrothal, and everyone will be watching us.”
“You’re worried they will see through our ruse,” he said.
“Aren’t you?” She searched his face, eyes shadowed in the darkness. “This plan of yours is mad. I fear I am mad for going along with it. For enjoying…” She ran her tongue across her lower lip. “What if we cannot convince people we are truly in love? Tristan did not believe us and I daresay he will not be the only one.”
“We shall have to be very convincing. Leastwise for a few weeks,” he said, staring at her mouth.
She looked away with a shiver. “I suppose it is our only option.”
Her hand rested on the railing, small and delicate in the moonlight. On impulse, Charles covered it with his own, the warmth of her skin seeping into his.
Her breath caught, and she turned to him with wide eyes. But she did not pull away.
His heart pounded as he gazed down at her. She was so close, her lips parted in surprise. It would be the simplest thing to bend his head and taste them.
He swallowed against the surge of longing. This was dangerous. He was playing with fire, and they would both be burned if he did not control himself. And yet...
He claimed her mouth in a searing kiss. His arms wrapped around her waist, holding her close as he ravished her mouth, indulging in the sweet taste of her—champagne and strawberries and woman.
She gasped, then rose on her toes, her hands tangling in his lapels.
This was dangerous, improper—he had to stop.
Buy Links (including Goodreads and BookBub):
Universal Link- https://books2read.com/u/3k29P6
What makes your featured book a must-read?
Who Needs a Duke is a delectable brothers best friend spun with fake engagement story that has been compared to Bridgerton and deemed a must-read by reviewers.
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Author Biography:
Amanda Mariel, an accomplished wordsmith, holds dual master's degrees in liberal arts and education, specializing in the captivating realms of history and literature. Beyond her academic pursuits, she embraces the joyful chaos of motherhood, tending to both her cherished teenagers and her trio of adored fur babies. Among them, a noble Bernese Mountain Dog named Blaze, and two cats of distinct character, Ezra and Puff, share their home.
A USA Today Bestselling luminary, Amanda Mariel conjures vivid tapestries of eras long past, drawing inspiration from the languid cadence of days gone by. With pen poised and imagination unfurled, she traverses the annals of time, weaving tales that illuminate historical landscapes with finesse and flair. Her creative spirit finds respite in reading, traversing new horizons through travel, and capturing moments through the lenses of both her camera and artistic endeavors. Yet, it is in the embrace of family that she finds her truest sanctuary.
To delve deeper into Amanda's captivating world visit www.amandamariel.com. While there, an invitation to join her newsletter promises a gateway to the latest from Amanda Mariel's literary treasury, and an opportunity to claim a complimentary eBook.
Amanda's passion extends to her readers, welcoming their voices and stories into her narrative realm. Engage with her through email at amanda@amandamariel.com, or connect via her social Media channels.
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Amidst the prose and parchment, Amanda Mariel etches a profound connection, bridging eras, hearts, and minds, creating a legacy that resonates through the corridors of time.
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