The Duke’s Guide to Correct Behavior: Dukes Behaving Badly, Book 1

This charming 1840 English historical launches a series from Frampton (What Not to Bare). Marcus, who has been Duke of Rutherford for only six months, gives up aimless debauchery when unexpectedly confronted with fatherhood. He swiftly hires a young woman named Lily as tutor to his daughter, Rose. Marcus seeks purpose in life, while Lily hopes his patronage will boost her employment agency for unfortunates. Their mutual attraction intensifies through sparkling banter and meaningful discussion, spiced by slow-building steamy physical intimacy, until the truth of Lily’s past potentially ends their hopes for the future. Their love for Rose, who is a realistic four-year-old rather than a plot device, adds another dimension to their relationship and escalates the reader’s emotional investment in their fate. Frampton superbly balances passion with humor, avoiding cliché through rich characterization. The result is warm, kindhearted, and utterly delightful. Agent: Louise Fury, Bent Agency. (Dec.)