Duchess by Design: A Novel

The Duke of Kingston is young, handsome, and has everything going for him. Except, of course, funds. His estate is failing. He has several sisters and a mother to care for. He’s not about to sell off his land, so the only solution is to find an heiress to wed. New York is the perfect place to find a dollar princess.

Imagine his joy when he finds the girl of his dreams the very first day. And although she has big dreams and talent, she’s a penniless seamstress. His attention causes the seamstress, Adeline, to lose her job but she has the opportunity to open her own dress shop. The Duke can’t get her out of his head and asks her assistance finding the perfect bride. Yet the chemistry between the Duke and Adeline is unquenchable. He knows she’s the one for him, but duty calls. How can he ever settle for another woman?

Fun, light, and cheery,Duchess by Design is a quick read. I hoped for more character development and growth but liked the plot development. If you’re looking for a sweet way to fill some time and like historical romance, Rodale’s novel is a decent diversion.