A Fake Courtship with the Duke by Sally Forbes

In the high-stakes world of Regency society, where reputations hang by a delicate thread, Anne and Richard, the Duke of Calder, orchestrate a fake courtship to shield their hearts. Yet, as their charade deepens, so does their genuine affection. Can their love withstand the relentless gossip and societal expectations, or will their façade unravel, exposing their hearts to a world where pretense is paramount?

Miss Anne Huxley, more renowned for her spirited escapades than her distinguished lineage, stands on the brink of an unwelcome marriage—a desperate attempt to restore her family’s reputation. However, a serendipitous meeting with the enigmatic Duke of Calder, Richard, presents an alluring proposal: a fake courtship to quell the ever-present societal murmurs. As their ruse deepens, Anne uncovers a depth in Richard that captures her heart, transforming their charade into a tender waltz of genuine affection.
Richard Stratford, the Duke of Calder, embodies the pinnacle of propriety. Yet, he’s no stranger to the weight of duty and the constant gaze of the ton, especially under the shadow of his mother’s relentless matchmaking efforts. But the vivacious Miss Huxley, accompanied by her mischievous cat, offers an unexpected reprieve: a fake courtship. As they dive into this playful deception, the boundaries become indistinct, and Richard realizes that beneath Anne’s lively exterior is a kindred spirit, sparking a passion that might engulf them both.
In a world where facades reign supreme and societal opinions wield influence, can their fake courtship blossom into lasting love? Or will gossip, scandal, and the pressures of convention unravel their carefully crafted web of deceit? With emotions intensifying and clarity fading, Anne and Richard face a choice: maintain their guise or confront the repercussions of baring their genuine hearts.
If you like powerful Dukes, loving Duchesses, and a marvelous depiction of the majestic Regency and Victorian era, then ”A Fake Courtship with the Duke” is the novel that suits you.
It is an enchanting regency romance of around 60,000 words with no cheating, no cliffhangers, and a sweet happily ever after.