The Infamous Duchess: Diamonds in the Rough

(Paperback)

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A woman with a shocking past...

Branded a money-hungry con artist for marrying the elderly Duke of Tremaine days before his death, Viola Cartwright has found refuge in her work at St. Agathas Hospital. No one must know the painful reason behind her marriage. She steers clear of attachmentsuntil Henry Lowell, heir to the Viscount Armswell, lands on her operating table after a duel. Charming and wickedly handsome, Lowell is one of Londons most inveterate scoundrels. Yet he may not be all that he appears.

And the man who can promise a future filled with love...

Posing as an unrepentant rake has helped Lowell avoid women pursuing him only for his title. But now that duty has finally called on him to marry, he finds himself entranced by the mysterious, independent-minded Viola. Then her late husbands son returns from overseas, contesting Violas inheritance. Lowell longs to help her and sets out to convince Viola that a strategic union may be the best way to save all she holds dear. But can he also persuade her to take a chance on love...

Reviews

engaging Kirkus Reviews Unconventional and progressive aristocrats, sensual romance, and a swift-moving plotline add allure to this capable novel. Publishers Weekly Barnes continues her thoroughly entertaining Diamonds in the Rough series with a lusciously written, Regency-set historical, whose engaging story line conveys more than a hint of modern sensibility but also has enough well-researched and well-placed historical details to firmly anchor it in the past. Booklist Vivid supporting characters (a sadistic villain is memorable) and sharp attention to period detailthe scientific and medical research is fascinatingare bonuses... Smart dialog, breathtaking sensuality, a mystery or two, and a well-crafted plot make this a worthy addition to Barness addictive series. Library Journal Violas a dazzling heroine an ambitious medical practitioner, a protector of vulnerable women, and a kind-hearted, gentle soul... Barnes has crafted quite the compelling mystery and family drama that unfolds across dueling fields and medical facilities for a romance novel that dips heavily into adventure and operatic danger. Entertainment Weekly

Author Bio

Born in Denmark, Sophie Barnes spent her youth traveling with her parents to wonderful places all around the world. She's lived in five different countries, on three different continents, and speaks Danish, English, French, Spanish and Romanian. But, most impressive of all, she's been married to the same man three times - in three different countries and in three different dresses. When she's not busy dreaming up her next romance novel, Sophie enjoys spending time with her family, swimming, cooking, gardening, watching romantic comedies and, of course, reading. Visit Sophie Barnes at www.SophieBarnes.com. You can also find her on Facebook and Twitter (@BarnesSophie).