In this gripping, mysterious Regency romance set in 1802, we meet Julian Fortescue, the newly appointed Duke of Denford. Dark and foreboding, Julian is trying to manage his new role in society, while also coming to terms with what happened in France, nine years ago.

Whilst trading for a magnificent art collection, Julian was betrayed, which inevitably led to the execution of the De Falleron family. Julian has never been able to forget what his actions had set in motion, but vowed he would find the traitor, and finally bring the art collection home.

In the midst of these events, Julian's mother leaves his three half sisters under his guardianship and waltzes off with husband number three. Now Julian requires a governess. Meet Jeanne de Falleron, who is desperate to gain access to Fortescue House, so that she may discover which Fortescue is responsible for the death of her family.

Under the guise of Jane Grey, she gets the position of Governess, and starts her quest for revenge. As time passes, Jane not only falls in love with the impish children under her tutelage, but also their handsome guardian, the Duke. Jane has had a troubled past where she was forced to make some difficult choices to ensure her survival, so she tries to maintain a distance from the dark Duke.

But passion flares between the two and their relationship begins to grow. As Julian returns to Denford Castle with his prized collection and ready to claim his love, the traitor is in their midst, ready to strike. Can love triumph when the truth is revealed, or is there just too much pain when the past comes to light?

THE DUKE OF DARK DESIRES by Miranda Neville is an addictive read that captures the reader from the outset. The character of Julian grows before our eyes, as his relationship with Jane grows, and he becomes a real brother to his younger sisters. The passion that erupts between Julian and Jane is romance at its finest. I loved the mystery surrounding the De Falleron family and their betrayal, and it kept me hooked right to the end. An excellent Regency romance.