Title:  What A Devilish Duke Desires
Series:  The Sinful Scoundrels (book 3)
Author:  Vicky Dreiling
Genre:  Historical Romance
Published:  February 24, 2015
Source:  NetGalley

Story Blurb:

WILL A FEW FLIRTATIOUS STEPS

Harry Norcliffe never wanted to inherit his beloved uncle’s title. The rigidity of the ton, the incessant reminders from his marriage-minded mama that he must settle down with a highborn lady and produce an heir and a spare: it’s all such a dreadful bore. So when his mother asks him to take part in a dancing competition, he patently refuses. The last thing he needs is another chore . . . until a beautiful, brilliant, delightfully tempting maid makes him rethink his position.

LEAD TO A SCANDALOUS SEDUCTION?

Most women would be over the moon to be pursued by a wickedly handsome—not to mention wealthy—duke like Norcliffe. But Lucy will not be any man’s trophy. She could use a friend, though, and what begins innocently soon ignites into desire. As Lucy tries to resist Harry’s scorching kisses, he makes an utterly irresistible offer. Enter the dance contest with him, and win a prize that could change her life forever . . . if falling in love doesn’t change it first.

Read on for my thoughts on What A Devilish Duke Desires.  No true spoilers, promise.

Sometimes you come across a story that is just simply charming.  Harry and Lucy were exactly that – charming.  I completely enjoyed an historically set  novel where the Hero just can’t be bothered with the craziness of the ton.  He never expected to be part of this “upper class” snobbery and doesn’t mince words (or actions) accordingly.

Lucy is a sweetheart – but not a doormat!  She is devoted to her grandmother and works tirelessly in order to keep a roof over their heads.  She isn’t afraid of hard work and has little time for the ton and their snobbish, ridiculous rules.  There is history about Lucy that will be revealed in the book that I won’t put into spoilers here.

What A Devilish Duke Desires is the third in the series.  While there were characters that I could see might be in a future novel – I believe this is the ending.  While it would help to have read the entire series, it is not necessary.  Ms. Dreiling gives enough back story to let us know who is who and why within the dialogue.

The witty exchanges between Lucy and Harry were entertaining, and gave me quite a few chuckles throughout the reading of this one.  Sometimes we just need a good, fun, entertaining novel and that description fits this perfectly.

I enjoyed it – 4 outta 5 on my rating scale – and it was a delightful, fun experience.

*I received an e-ARC of What A Devilish Duke Desires from the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. That does not change what I think of this novel.*

First reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf