Encounter a trio of dashing dukes in these historical romances featuring plot twists, hijinks, and happily-ever-afters.

Bennett, Sara. Dreaming of a Duke Like You. Forever: Grand Central. Oct. 2023. 368p. ISBN 9781538723814. pap. $8.99. HISTORICAL ROMANCE

Vivienne Tremeer has fled to London with her brother Will in the hopes of avoiding an unwanted marriage and leaving her scandalous past behind. Will, however, quickly accumulates debt at Cadieux’s Gambling Club. Vivienne will do anything to help her brother and avoid further scandal, even if it means working with the new Duke of Grantham, Gabriel Cadieux, the owner of the gambling club. As their paths become intertwined, they must navigate high society and their deepening feelings for one another. This Regency romance, centered on forbidden love, will keep readers engaged until the very end. The plot is fast-paced, character-driven, and brimming with romantic tension. Bennett creates this tension between the protagonists using simple, mature language that quickly moves the plot forward. With multiple obstacles and plot twists, readers will be kept in suspense as to whether or not Vivienne and Gabriel will confess their love. VERDICT Set in 19th-century London, this romance is perfect for fans of Christina Britton and Sophie Jordan. The first in Bennett’s (Meant To Be) new series; romance lovers won’t want to miss it.—Jenn Laskosky

Carlyle, Christy. Duke Seeks Bride. Avon. (Love on Holiday, Bk. 3). Aug. 2023. 368p. ISBN 9780063054516. pap. $9.99. HISTORICAL ROMANCE

Alexander is the Duke of Rennick, whose his father—in order to get Alex to marry and secure the ducal line—is threatening Ballymore Castle, the one place Alex feels at home. Alex’s beloved aunt plays matchmaker to help him save their home, but Alex cannot bring himself to marry any of the women on her list. Miss Evelyn Graves has always prided herself in her work as the personal secretary of a duchess. She has not had time to take a holiday, but she acquiesces when her employer asks her to travel to Ireland to help at an event held by Rennick. The duke’s family, however, mistakes her for the duchess. Instead of correcting them, Alex asks Evie to pretend she is the duchess to appease his family. Evie agrees, even though she has reservations about him, and neither of them expects for their hearts to become involved in this impossible situation. VERDICT Carlyle completes her “Love on Holiday” trilogy (after Lady Meets Earl) with characters fans will adore. Hand to readers who love the fake-dating trope and the hijinks of a romantic comedy.—Morgan Lockard

Quincy, Diana. The Duke Gets Desperate. Avon. (Sirens in Silk, Bk. 1). Sept. 2023. 384p. ISBN 9780063247499. pap. $9.99. HISTORICAL ROMANCE

An Arab American businesswoman inherits a castle in Victorian England and has to share the property with the estate’s disgruntled duke in this series-launcher from Quincy (The Marquess Makes His Move). Reeling from her brother’s betrayal, which ousted her from the family company, Raya Darwish travels to England to attend her cousin’s funeral. Upon her arrival, Raya learns that she has inherited the castle where her cousin resided—along with its dire financial situation and the curmudgeonly Duke of Strickland. The duke is aghast to learn that a brash American has inherited the castle that’s been in his family for generations. Despite their differences, they’ll have to work together to secure their financial futures—if they can resist the growing desire between them. Tension builds as the pair’s opposing wills tumble with their passionate trysts. VERDICT Set against the backdrop of a centuries-old castle and a mystery of stolen artifacts, Qunicy’s intrigue and banter will keep readers flipping pages to solve the mystery and discover how this couple can claim their happily-ever-after.—Shanel Slater