NO ORDINARY DUCHESS

A seemingly strict nobleman submits to an unusual woman.

When they first meet in the Duke of Windemere’s library, Julian and Elspeth are both snooping. Lady Elspeth de Moray is desperate to find a long-lost book with the potential to save the Wise Women, an ancient secret society to which she’s devoted. For his part, Julian Greycourt is in his uncle’s library hoping to meet a housemaid with something to tell him that he hopes may protect his sisters from the duke’s cruel behavior. When they hear the duke approaching, they flee to the library’s upper level and hide in a corner—with Elspeth crouching between Julian’s legs. It isn’t until shortly afterwards, when the two are properly introduced at the duchess’ tea party, that they realize they should hate each other, since Elspeth’s brother is rumored to have been involved in the mysterious death of Julian’s sister. But it’s too late for that; their close connection in the library leaves both excited to see each other again. This attraction explodes into an affair when it becomes clear that the inexperienced Elspeth isn’t scared off by Julian’s need to be ordered around in the bedroom, but their intimate connection vies with the desperate need they both have to keep their secrets and care for the people they love. As it’s been several years since the earlier titles in the Greycourt series were published—most recently, When a Rogue Meets His Match (2020)—a lot of exposition is needed to illuminate the connections among characters. Unfortunately, this overload of backstory combined with a complicated and uneven plot may leave readers feeling lost, especially if they’re starting with this volume. However, the chemistry between Julian and Elspeth is spicy and intriguing from the first pages, and the tender depiction of his desire to be submissive—and her willingness to learn to dominate him—provide a compelling reason for readers to stick with it.

A promising return from a beloved historical romance author.