I had mixed feelings about Noah at the beginning of the story. His proposal was a business offer, not an offer of marriage. What kind of man was he? Thea's family has financial problems, her younger brother is gambling and drinking away the family fortune. Lady Thea accepts Noah's proposal when he sweetens his offer by saying that Thea's sister Nonie can live with them and he would sponsor her come out. Security is important to Thea. But what about love?

Noah and Thea marry and discover they both have secrets. BIG secrets. Noah is disappointed that Thea kept her secret from him. Thea uncovers several of Noah's secrets while he is away on business. It's how the practical Duke and the kind-hearted Thea deal with the secrets that made me fall in love with this couple and their love story. I loved when Noah would wake Thea up each morning even though he knew she loved to sleep in. He would make her tea and toast, serve her in bed, help himself to her toast and steal her tea as they discussed their plans for the day! Their morning conversations were charming and very funny and allowed the reader to witness a subtle change in their relationship.

Thea's secret haunts her because she doesn't remember all of the fine details. Grace Burrowes writes this part of the novel very skillfully. Throughout THE DUKE'S DISASTER, the author provides subtle clues to the reader how members of the ton viewed and treated companions and governesses. The reader picks up on what polite society viewed as normal or tolerable behavior in that time period. Noah ;and Thea decide to hold a small house party for family, friends and neighbors. Thea's dreams intensify as the weekend event approaches. Noah senses that Thea is fearful and supports her as best he can.

The last few chapters of THE DUKE'S DISASTER are filled with suspense and intrigue as the night of the ball approaches. Grace Burrowes does an excellent job balancing Noah and Thea emotions and actions as the story approaches it's resolution. Noah senses that something is clearly upsetting his Duchess and resolves to protect Thea. There were several times that I thought I knew the identity of the villain. I had three possibilities at the start of the house party. One suspect was eliminated and two remained. I was surprised when all was revealed. My favorite part of the unmasking was Noah's reaction. It is both practical and loving. I was both pleased and surprised by the ending.

THE DUKE'S DISASTER is an engaging read. I loved how the managing Duke and his Lady learned to trust each other as they fell in love as their family and friends watched. If you have not read any of the authors works, please note that this is a stand alone novel and can be read and enjoyed on it's own.

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