Meriel Shelby loses her friends and her place in society when her banker father commits suicide rather than admit he's bankrupt. Thrown into poverty with her sisters, Meriel takes a job as governess in the Duke of Thanet's household. After a quick interview with the duke, Meriel travels to his country estate to teach his bright young son. Her feelings of peace end when the duke returns. His remote manner is gone and in its place is a pleasant, but slightly arrogant, man who gazes at Meriel with desire. Her feelings of unease make her think something is just not right about the man.

Richard O'Neill, the illegitimate and nearly identical brother of Cecil, the Duke of Thanet, responds to his brother's plea to masquerade as him. Consumption threatens Cecil's life and concern for his son's safety from an unscrupulous uncle force him to beg for Richard's aid. Richard puts aside his hatred for the aristocrats and the power they wield. Instead, he remembers Cecil as a young boy who fought for him against the duchess' hatred and his father's neglect.

Richard finds trying to maintain his disguise and cover his interest in the pretty governess proves harder than he thought. The danger to his nephew grows and Richard discovers Meriel is a useful ally. Desire grows between them as they struggle to protect the young future duke.

THE DUKE IN DISGUISE is a tale about the lure of power and the slippery path to corruption. Richard, with his best intentions, feels the seductive pull and only with Meriel's unwavering support and love can he resist. Ms. Callen gives readers a thoughtful and still romantic read.