The Worst Duke in the World

Berne’s sparkling fifth Penhallow Dynasty Regency romance (after Engaged to the Earl) pairs an unconventional duke with the newest member of the wealthy Penhallow family. When penniless 20-year-old Jane Kent discovers a letter written to her grandmother, Charity, by Titus Penhallow, she learns that Titus was her grandfather. Jane travels to Surmont Hall to present the letter to Mrs. Penhallow, her great-grandmother, who enthusiastically welcomes her into the family. Because Jane’s poor upbringing afforded her little education, Mrs. Penhallow solicits the local vicar to tutor Jane alongside Wakefield Farr, the eight-year-old Marquis of Rutherford, son of the Penhallow’s neighbor, Anthony, Duke of Radcliffe. Anthony, a widower who cares little for living up to ducal expectations, is enchanted by Jane’s beauty and refreshing candor, though he remains resolute never to marry again. But when Mrs. Penhallow takes Jane to London to search for a husband, Anthony misses her more than he anticipated and must decide whether to confess his feelings to Jane or risk losing her to another man. Jane’s curious combination of naivete and street smarts makes her an endearing heroine, and the romance between Jane and Anthony is enhanced by witty banter and Wakefield’s mischievous antics. Series fans will be thrilled. Agent: Cheryl Pientka, Jill Grinberg Literary. (Feb.)