The Dangerous Duke — Christine Wells

Trapped in a loveless marriage, Lady Kate Fairchild found refuge in her diary, scene of her fantasy affair. And now, even though her husband's death has set her free, no suitor can thrill Kate quite like her phantom lover - until a duke with a murky past sears her with his gaze...

Maxwell Brooke, Duke of Lyle, is hunting the arsonists who killed his family - and Kate's brother knows where they hide. But when jailing him proves futile, Max kidnaps Kate, demanding as ransom her brother's cooperation. Still, Max never counted on Kate's rapier wit and heated kisses - and soon, desire wars with duty, even as real danger stalks his captive lady...

When Kate threatens to publish a tell-all diary if her brother remains imprisoned, Max hopes to protect her from the powerful men she intends to expose. Stealing the diary, he spirits her off to a country estate. But the diary is nothing like he expected - and when Max discovers Kate's sensual secrets, he can't resist exploiting them in every way...