Poppy Fairchurch is a shop girl new to London doing her best to take care of her sister when the Duke of Autenberry walks into the shop and Poppy falls in love. When he is nearly hit by a carriage Poppy rushes to his rescue, and while the duke lies in a coma his family mistakes Poppy for his betrothed. Not wanting to worry anyone Poppy plays along, and hopes that perhaps the duke will come to love her when he awakens. However, the duke's half brother, Struan McKenzie, is suspicious and when Struan and Poppy are together a real connection is found. Poppy must decide if she should marry the duke of her dreams or the man who is quickly stealing her heart.

WHILE THE DUKE WAS SLEEPING by Sophie Jordan is a historical romance with a unique plot. Poppy isn't the typical debutante heroine of historical romances, but rather a plain shop girl who saves a duke's life, and gets mistaken for his betrothed. She is intelligent and strong-willed, and her personality shines throughout the story. Struan, half-brother to the duke, is dangerous yet caring, and has vulnerabilities that lead to tremendous growth of character. He is the unique hero that perfectly fits the unexpected heroine. Together they have a passionate and steamy love affair, and an understanding with similar backgrounds that make them the perfect couple.

The duke's family is a mixture of witty and charming characters from his sister to his stepmother. Their love and open minds will have readers loving them right from the beginning. Poppy's sister is also humorous and full of charm and will delight readers. Jordan describes the countryside in a magical way that will leave readers feeling as if they are enjoying the holidays with Poppy and Struan. The dialogue is believable and the plot moves along at a good steady pace. Readers will have a hard time putting down WHILE THE DUKE WAS SLEEPING.