The Good, the Bad, and the Duke

MacGregor’s fourth Cavensham Heiresses historical (after The Luck of the Bride) effervesces with lighthearted romance and holiday cheer. Lady Daphne, sister to a marquis, is accidentally left behind at Christmastime when her boisterous family decamps from London to their country estate. Choosing to make the best of the situation, she spends quality time with her journal, the keeper of her deepest secrets. When that journal is stolen, she ends up on the steps of a notorious gambling hell with only her brother’s estranged best friend to save her from infamy. Paul, Duke of Southart, dedicated his life to scandal until the untimely death of his father and older brother. Now his goal is to repair his image. When he finds Daphne about to lead herself to ruin, he steps in to save her from herself—and possibly repair his relationship with her brother. This romance is sweet and sultry in equal measures, and endearing characters bring the story to life. Agent: Pam Ahearn, Ahearn Agency. (Dec.)