Maximilian Cale, the Duke of Lyons, long ago buried his grief for his missing elder brother, Peter, who was presumed dead after being kidnapped by their Great-Uncle Humbert. When a mysterious note arrives from Tristan Bonnaud asserting that the Duke's brother is alive, it leads him straight to the winsome Lisette Bonnaud, illegitimate daughter of a viscount and Tristan's sister. Soon after, Max and Lisette are travelling to Paris posing as husband and wife, in search of Tristan, who has disappeared. The longer he spends with Lisette, the easier it is for Max to see that the line between dukedom and desire is easier to cross than he imagined.
So good! I think this is my first historical where the characters are chiefly the illegitimate children, left with nothing. Loved Lissette and the way she was so independent and determined. Max is a lovable character, even if he was a pro at putting his foot in his mouth. The travel elements were so fun, especially as Lissette's scheme fell apart (as they always do!)
The narration was fantastic, with the French accent mixed in. And the nods to historical accuracy with the French Vedoc (spelling?) was cool. Look forward to reading more.
