How to Catch a Duke

Burrowes creates a couple that readers will root for in her energetic sixth Rogues to Riches Regency series (after The Truth About Dukes). Inquiry agent Abigail Abbott’s past has come back to haunt her. The despicable Lord Stapleton believes Abigail is in possession of love letters written by his late son, the Earl of Champlain, who had an affair with Abigail while married, and repeatedly threatens Abigail in his quest to get them back. Forthright, intelligent Abigail turns to her ruthless friend Lord Stephen Wentworth for assistance. Though Abigail is no longer in possession of the letters, she recreates them for Stephen, hoping they can discover why they are so crucial to Stapleton. Smitten Stephen, meanwhile, offers to protect Abigail from Stapleton’s threats by courting her and moving her into the home of his powerful brother, the Duke of Walden. Their engagement of convenience gives way to passionate interludes and real romance—but danger still looms. The flawed, realistic characters and their witty, flirtatious banter make for an immersive romance. Series fans will be delighted. (Apr.)