Anything but a Duke (Duke’s Den #2)

In Carlyle’s memorable second Duke’s Den Victorian romance (after A Duke Changes Everything), a budding scientist and a wealthy businessman discover they are a perfect match. Diana Ashby wishes to avoid marriage until she can gain recognition for her inventions. When she happens upon a gentleman being attacked, she chases away the ruffians and assists the victim, and they share a brief, unforgettable kiss. A year later, Diana is invited to present her household cleaning system invention at Lyon’s, a gentlemen’s club in London, where she hopes to find a backer. One of the investors she meets is Aidan Iverson, the man she assisted. Aidan agrees to fund her invention if she can help him find a noble bride. Orphaned at a young age, Aidan has achieved great wealth through his business successes, but some doors have been closed to him because of his lack of familial connections. Diana introduces him to marriageable young women, but none holds the appeal that she does. Aidan must decide whether the love he feels for Diana is more important than his future bride’s noble blood. Fans of historical romance with strong, intelligent heroines will adore this novel, in which emotionally vulnerable, highly motivated characters complete the sensuous story. Agent: Jill Marsal, Marsal Lyon Literary. (May)