Never Deny a Duke

Book excerpt: From New York Times bestselling author Madeline Hunter comes the fabulous finale in her Decadent Dukes Society trilogy about three untamable dukes and the strong, alluring women who ignite their decadent desires. A woman seeks to reclaim the land she believes was unfairly stripped from her family by the Duke who now refuses to return the land to her. A classic and witty battle of wills ensues as only Madeline Hunter can deliver. HE IS THE LAST DUKE STANDING . . . the sole remaining bachelor of the three self-proclaimed Decadent Dukes. Yet Davina MacCallum’s reasons for searching out the handsome Duke of Brentworth have nothing to do with marriage. Scottish lands were unfairly confiscated from her family by the Crown and given to his. A reasonable man with vast holdings can surely part with one trivial estate, especially when Davina intends to put it to good use. Brentworth, however, is as difficult to persuade as he is to resist. The Duke of Brentworth’s discretion and steely control make him an enigma even to his best friends. Women especially find him inscrutable and unapproachable—but also compellingly magnetic. So when Davina MacCallum shows no signs of being even mildly impressed by him, he is intrigued. Until he learns that her mission in London involves claims against his estate. Soon the two of them are engaged in a contest that allows no compromise. When duty and desire collide, the best laid plans are about to take a scandalous turn—into the very heart of passion . . . Madeline Hunter’s novels are: “Brilliant, compelling. . . . An excellent read.” —The Washington Post “Mesmerizing.” —Publishers Weekly “Pure passion.” —Booklist