"Strong, likable characters make this enjoyable reading."

Eleanor de Lacy, companion and cousin to Madeline, Duchess of Magnus, is unable to deny her cousin's request, who wishes Eleanor to impersonate her with an unwanted, never before seen fiancé. A fiancé procured when her irresponsible father bet his daughter and lost at the gaming tables. Eleanor believes the scheme is impossible; even if they are similar in appearance, they're exact opposites in personality. To portray the duchess, Eleanor must emerge from her poor relation demeanor and become a commanding force, unwilling to bend to the dictates of others.

A rude and arrogant American, Remington Knight, arrives in England seeking justice and revenge on the Englishmen who destroyed his father's life. A predator who shapes his own destiny, Remington feels no remorse forcing the duchess to marry him. Expecting a haughty lady, he's surprised at her modesty and frequent bouts of shyness. Still, he's determined to unmask the villain, whom he believes to be the duchess' father. Their growing attraction and ardor complicate Remington's plan, until he discovers Eleanor has duped him. Proving her mettle, she refuses to fade into the shadows; instead she battles to regain his trust and love.

Strong and likable characters make this an enjoyable read. Ms. Dodd peppers the story with interesting secondary personalities, which adds to the reading pleasure.

Reviewed by Suan Wilson
Courtesy Old Book Barn Gazette
Posted October 28, 2003

Summary

A bold woman known as the "duchess of Magnus" was wagered -- and won -- in a card game. But the woman who arrived was her shy, quiet cousin Eleanor. Eleanor de Lacy must have been mad to agree to exchange identities with her stronger-willed cousin. She would never convince Remington Knight of the folly of this union -- especially since the man seemed so determined for it to take place. Worse still, she finds Remington dazzlingly attractive -- and she's charmed by his attempts to seduce her, even though he believes she is already his. But if he ever learns of Eleanor's deception, this daring rogue will wreak havoc...upon her reputation and her heart. Remington had expected a haughty, unbending aristocrat who would ensure his entrance into good society. But this "duchess" is a most pleasant surprise -- modest, warm- hearted, endearingly awkward, and a delight to the eye. In short, she is exactly the sort of bride Remington could fall passionately, completely in love with... ...if he weren't so intent on his revenge.