Would I Lie to the Duke

Complex, witty characters with strong bonds and big hearts enliven the seductive second Union of the Rakes romance from Leigh (after My Fake Rake). When paid companion Jessica McGale’s employer is incapacitated by an injury, Jessica uses the extra free time (and her employer’s wardrobe) to gain entry into London’s annual Bazaar, five days during which genteel entrepreneurs can present their enterprises to investors, hoping she’ll be able to secure enough funding to rebuild her family’s soap business. One of those investors is Noel Edwards, Duke of Rotherby. Noel trusts very few people and is accustomed to being courted for his influence and wealth, but Noel is intrigued by Jessica’s intellect, financial prowess, and sharp wit. Jessica enjoys being treated like a member of the elite, but as her feelings for Noel intensify she worries about what will happen if he discovers that she’s pretending to be someone she’s not. Leigh makes a strong case for their compatibility as Noel learns to open his heart and Jessica learns her own lesson about trust. Readers will delight in this fun, fresh Regency. Agent: Kevan Lyon, Marsal Lyon Literary. (Aug.)

Correction: An earlier version of this review incorrectly stated this was the first book in a series.