"A Damsel in distress; A Duke in disguise"

Diana ran into a "knight in shining armour" while she was rescuing a puppy that was being mistreated by some of her husband's friends. All during her miserable 5 year marriage, and the period of mourning, she kept the thought of the Duke of Smythingdale close to her heart! Back at the vicarage with her father she was shocked to learn that her father was planning another marriage for her. She was determined that no way was she going to be married off again! She started planning.

Unbeknownst to her the Duke of Smythingdale had taken refuge in her barn to rest his sprained ankle. After his capture and selling as a slave to a cruel owner he decided to go on a walking trip in England to search for some peace. He too had kept the memory of Diana close. He didn't realize it was her barn he was resting in! Surprised to find this out later that day, he decided to keep the truth from her. He decided he wanted her to love him, David, and not the Duke. Hearing a noise in the middle of the night he was surprised to see Diana, dragging a portmanteau, walking down the lane. Following her he overheard her buy a ticket for London. Since he had decided that Diana was going to be his, he thought he had better keep an eye on her and protect her in what he was sure was to be a folly!

What a wonderful book! I loved the conversations between Diana and David. It was amusing to hear David try to act like a sailor and try to be subservient when he was used to giving orders. From the beginning he seemed to take charge in the planning of their trip. Diana was always trying to be the economical one and telling David (the Duke) they couldn't afford this or that. Hilarious! The addition of David's dog Gulliver and a donkey Esmerelda that they had "rescued" was a nice touch. Gulliver had such an engaging personality. He was so loyal and protective! Why was he nervous of Diana's portmanteau? I highly recommend this book. It was funny and romantic. Find out why people, including the spurned suitor. were trying to catch them! Is there really evil in the world?

Reviewed by Sophie Murphy
Posted April 27, 2003