The Duke of Ruin by Darcy Burke
Series: The Untouchables, book 8
Genre: historical romance/regency
Publisher: Darcy Burke Publishing
Publication Date: March 27, 2018
Rating: ★★★★★

Diana Kingman’s predicament is dire. Her betrothal is in shambles and running away seems the better option than facing her father’s wrath. All she wants is solitude and peace but with the beginnings of a scandal chasing her, Diana might not be able to deal with all of this alone.

Simon Hastings has known nothing but despair since the death of his wife or like everyone believes since everyone blames him for her murder. Unable to dispute the claims, Simon bears the accusations in silence and strives to be a better man everyday. He starts with helping Diana but good intentions not always lead to good outcome.

On the precipice of another devastating scandal, Diana and Simon must marry to save the Duke from being tried by law on false accusations of kidnapping her. But can Simon really love another woman after being haunted by the death of his first love?

Okay you guys HOLY SHIT! I was absolutely blown away by how good this story was. I adore historical romances and the whole trope of marrying to avoid a scandal just makes me gird my loins.

Diana was such a refreshing character. I felt so bad that she had such a sucky family but adored the fact that she never let any of that make her bitter. She just wanted to live a peaceful life and was ready to get herself one at any costs. Also, you guys she is not *that* innocent and I freaking love it.

Simon, oh my poor tortured man! I just wanted to wrap him in a hug and never let go. He was just so sweet and kind and caring and SO GOD DARN HOT. Like his intensity made me pant, no joke. I was expecting a jilted man who hates everything but instead he was just the perfect gentleman in every way. And, he can talk dirty. MAN OH MAN!!!

I am definitely looking forward to reading more books in the series. This book was the perfect introduction to Darcy;s books and I am already a huge fan.

4.5 bodice ripping stars!!!

~Sonal

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Synopsis:
With her betrothal to a duke in tatters and scandal imminent, Diana Kingman has two choices: live in certain ignominy or flee into obscurity. Diana wants solitude. She never wished to wed in the first place. However, her father will stop at nothing to betroth her to one of the finest titles in the realm…no matter how loathsome the bearer. Escape is Diana’s only option, and she’ll pay any price to achieve freedom.

Universally blamed for the death of his wife and unborn child, Simon Hastings doesn’t dispute his guilt over an accident he cannot even remember. He hasn’t had a drink since, nor a moment’s peace. Determined to be a better man, Simon rescues a young woman in need—only to be accused of kidnapping. They must marry to save him from prison. But how can a man haunted by the love he lost and a woman afraid to get too close find happiness together?