cover image A Devil of a Duke: The Decadent Dukes Society, Book 2

A Devil of a Duke: The Decadent Dukes Society, Book 2

Madeline Hunter. Zebra, $7.99 mass market (352p) ISBN 978-1-4201-4392-8

Rich with scandal and sensuality, Hunter’s second Decadent Dukes Society Regency (after The Most Dangerous Duke in London) features a fabulous heroine, a secretary with a criminal secret who falls for a man far above her station. Handsome Gabriel St. James, Duke of Langford, is well known for his disregard of London high society’s opinion of him, but he starts taking his ducal responsibilities more seriously after the eccentric Lady Farnsworth publishes a letter chiding him for his misbehavior. When he meets an elusive woman at a ball and enjoys a passionate interlude with her, he is intrigued and makes plans for a future assignation. What Gabriel doesn’t realize is that the object of his affection is Amanda Waverly, Lady Farnsworth’s secretary and an expert thief from a family of rogues. As Gabriel falls further under Amanda’s spell, he is entranced by her quiet beauty and how she seems to care more for him than his wealth or title. Meanwhile, she’s stealing valuable items to ransom her kidnapped mother. Scintillating love scenes are plentiful in this page-turning tale, which is enhanced by a cast of memorable characters and smart, witty protagonists. Agent: Pamela Hopkins, Hopkins Literary. (May)