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The Design of Dukes

The Beautiful Barringtons, Book 2

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The Design of Dukes

By: Kathleen Ayers
Narrated by: Stevie Zimmerman
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Summary

Lady Andromeda Barrington is the most unsuitable young lady in London.

At least in the Duke of Granby’s opinion.

Granby doesn’t care for bastard relatives or tainted pedigrees and Andromeda possesses both. Nor does he like opinionated young ladies who enjoy hurling insults in his direction.

Andromeda is, in short, the most annoying creature he’s ever met.

When she arrives, uninvited, to a house party given at his estate, Granby can’t decide whether to kiss Andromeda senseless or send her packing.

Andromeda is the victim of infatuation and bad luck.

The infatuation is that of her sister for the Earl of Blythe, but the misfortune belongs solely to Andromeda after she is forced to attend a house party hosted by the Duke of Granby. She and the duke are previously, unpleasantly, acquainted. The entire party is bound to be awkward, and their mutual dislike difficult to hide. Her only recourse is to avoid the giant block of ice masquerading as a duke. Thankfully, Granby’s estate is enormous.

But instead of mutual hostility upon arriving, Romy is greeted with unexpected attraction. Insults turn into flirtation. Heated discussions become lingering kisses.

Her heart is ruined. Granby may not even have one.

And the duke has already chosen another young lady to be his duchess.

©2021 Kathleen Ayers (P)2022 Kathleen Ayers
Historical Historical Fiction Regency Regency Romance Romance Victorian Heartfelt
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This is the first book that I have read by this author and I loved it. Although it is #2 of the Beautiful Barrington Series, I didn't feel that I missed anything but now have #1 to read and can't wait.

Lady Andromeda is very independent, designs dresses and loves her family. She is, however, fully aware of their "eccentricities", e.g. her mother, the Dowager Duchess, was once a Lady's companion and eligitimate daughter of an earl, her brother is illegitmate and owns a gaming hell, to name a few.

David, The Duke of Granby, is very aware of who he is and is very set in his ways until he comes into contact with Andromeda who turns his life inside out.

I laughed out loud when they met which is unusual and warmed me immediately to the story. There is almost instant chemistry between them and there is delightful banter throughout the book. Be warned, it quite sizzles when they get together and the tension can be high!

I also loved the supporting cast of characters and can't wait to read all about them, including Blythe and Haven.

It is not often I come across a book that puts a smile on my face and which I can't put down. This is one of them. Delightfully written and narrated.

delightful shrub

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