For the Duke’s Eyes Only

A kiss lands lovers-turned-rivals on the same quest to recover a stolen artifact in this flirty, fast-paced historical romantic thriller, the second in Bell’s School for Dukes Regency series (after What a Difference a Duke Makes). Leaving Lady India Rochester was heartbreaking for Daniel, Duke of Ravenwood, but duty to the Crown called. Unbeknownst to her, he became a spy to clear his deceased father’s name. Indy despises the man Daniel seems to have become, but when a piece of the Rosetta Stone is stolen, she sets her animosity aside to assist in recovering the artifact, which is imperative to her next quest. The two spend as much time bickering and “hate-kissing” as they do searching for clues, but their undeniable attraction and emotional connection is too much to ignore. There are plenty of suspects and action-packed moments, but some of the thrills fall short for such a large adventure. Readers will applaud the intelligence and bravery of the duo and anticipate their union. Their verbal sparring is excellent, but the lovemaking often starts abruptly with little transition, and the book’s conclusion doesn’t live up to the intriguing premise. Agent: Alexandra Machinist, ICM. (Sept.)