FALLING INTO BED WITH A DUKE is book one in the new series by Lorraine Heath, The Hellions of Havisham. Heath has been a hit or miss author for me, but as I absolutely adore some of her books, she is an auto-read author for me. Falling into Bed with a Duke is one of her success books for me. A Victorian historical romance, this first Hellions of Havisham book features Nicholas, the Duke of Ashebury. The unexpected tragic deaths of the Duke and Duchess of Ashebury left three young sons orphaned - Ashe and his two younger brothers, whom I assume will be featured in the next several books. The boys were left in the care of a guardian who went mad with grief at the death of his own wife, and so Nicholas is determined to never love again.

Miss Minerva Dodger is approaching the designation of spinsterhood, after six unsuccessful Seasons. Heath fans will happily recognize her as the daughter of Jack Dodger from BETWEEN THE DEVIL AND DESIRE in the Scoundrels of St. James series. Rich-as-Croesus Jack Dodger has provided a very hefty dowry for Minerva, and she is disgusted with the many suiters who have pursued her only for her money. Distrustful, Minerva has been raised to know her own mind and to speak it, and does not trust men. I love the strong women that Heath writes, and Minerva is no exception. I cheer for her capability and forthrightness!

Minerva decides to rid herself of her virginity and pursue one night of pleasure at the notorious Nightingale Club, masquerading as Lady V. The establishment caters to women who want to remain anonymous while enjoying the attentions of a lover. Ashe slowly tempts the Lady V into his bed, and quickly discovers her true identity. The slow courtship of Minerva, as Ashe quietly discovers that he does indeed have a heart, is quite beautiful. Both Ashe and Minerva are quirky and engaging characters. FALLING INTO BED WITH A DUKE is a passionate Victorian romance that leaves the reader sighing in happiness, and I'm looking forward to THE EARL TAKES ALL, the next in Heath's series.