The Duke of Thornsby is in a bind. He inherited his title, but won't inherit the money with it unless he marries by his next birthday. Unfortunately, a slight scandal has kept him from courting any young women, but when he is invited to a house party he discovers more than just a bride in Matilda Sheldon.

CHARMING THE DUKE is a pleasant romance filled with entertaining characters. Matilda is stubborn, intelligent, independent woman who doesn't think marriage is for her. She is kind hearted, but doesn't see her own beauty making her a heroine readers will love. Thornsby is kind, charming, and his comical mistakes will have readers hoping he wins Matilda's heart. Thronsby's imperfections and his ability to admit his mistakes make him an impressive romance hero.

Holly Bush has written wonderful secondary characters who really tie the story together. Some are witty and other dim-witted, but all add a unique presence to the story. CHARMING THE DUKE would not be the same story without Athena, Andrew, Fran, Francis, Juliet, and Alexandra. My favorite secondary character is Ethel Sheldon, the opinionated grandmother who is as tough as nails.

The villain is subtle, yet devious and the ending won't leave readers disappointed. The characters in CHARMING THE DUKE will leave readers with smiles long after they've finished reading.