A Daring Deception — Laura Trentham

She is desperate for a fairy godmother. Fate gives her a wicked duke.

Simon, the Duke of Bellingham, is dreading his sister's house party, especially as her matchmaking hat is firmly in place. Attempting to atone for a misspent youth, Simon has become a sober, respected member of Parliament -- and a hunted bachelor. His plan to avoid the minefield of ambitious mamas and their daughters is cast aside when he happens across a lady whose beauty is enhanced by her warmth and teasing tongue.

Miss Jessica Tremaine never forgot the kindness Simon showed her on a dark day when she was a young girl. Unexpectedly crossing paths once again, he assumes she's a lady's maid and not the girl from a troubled aristocratic family. It's clear he doesn't remember her, and for a time, she allows herself to dream of a future away from her despicable stepfather.

Simon learns of her deception and retreats to London to nurse what he suspects is a broken heart. When Jessica finds herself in London and in danger, she turns to the one man she trusts -- even if he doesn't trust her.

Warning: Contains a lady in need of a knight-errant, a duke in need of a lady, and a deception that ignites a passion for the ages.