The Creole Duchess by Rue Allyn

New Orleans Creole, Miss Celestine St. Cyr-Duval refuses to live under the thumb of some man chosen by her parents. Celie will do everything to gain the ability to make her own way and determine her own fate. But fate interferes in the form of a duke disguised as British businessman, Caleb Alden. A relationship with Caleb would find approval with Celie’s mother, but both Celie and Caleb have secrets that put them on opposite sides of a great conflict and could destroy them both.

With the Battle of New Orleans looming, can these two natural enemies compromise and protect each other, or will fear and betrayal end both their lives.

It was her eyes that drew him first, dark eyes possessed of a penetrating depth that could’ve frightened him had they not roused curiosity and desire in rapid succession. She had Raven wing hair, a cream and honey complexion, deep rose-hued lips, a delicate slope of nose, a slim figure that moved with a thoughtless grace, and that depthless stare.

He’d never seen anyone like her.

Cal shook his head. His heart and spirit ripped from his body, as if stolen. The feeling was totally alien.

He did not do awe-struck.

He had to regain his senses.

“Who is that?” Desire choked his words.

“Who are you looking at?”

“That woman directly across from us in the yellow muslin gown.”

“Ah, the celestial Miss Celestine St. Cyr-Duval,” de Ramona murmured.

He was right. The woman was indeed heavenly to look at. He continued to stare. It was rude in the extreme, but he could not look away.