by Julia Quinn
First published 2000
The ton of Regency London is abuzz with the news: the brooding Duke of Hastings is finally courting a wife. But Simon's only aim is to dupe society's matchmaking mothers - by pretending to be engaged to the lovely Daphne Bridgerton. As their charade grows convincing, the two find themselves drawn together, their easy rapport kindling a real and forbidden passion. Can Daphne risk her heart to a man sworn against marriage, or will the duke's deception end in heartbreak?
Genres: fiction, romance, historical-fiction, regency
Vibes: atmospheric, emotional, intimate
Tropes: enemies-to-lovers, fake-dating
Setting: England, Kampala
Period: Regency (1811-1820)
339 pages · Paperback · Avon