The Knave of Hearts

When the notorious Duke of Melcombe becomes the guardian of Ravella Shane, he feels no interest in her beyond a rigid sense of duty. Now a wealthy heiress, Ravella finds herself the focus of eager suitors and Society's sharpest gossip for she is living unchaperoned in the household of a gambler, a womaniser, a man Society neither trusts nor forgives. Blind to the whispers, Ravella worships her guardian and determined to remain at his side, follows him into London's darkest gaming houses and glittering but corrupt parties. When one of the Duke's discarded lovers discovers Ravella's place in his life, jealousy turns deadly. A cruel plot is set in motion, placing Ravella in mortal danger. Yet again, the Duke comes to her rescue, but this time Ravella realises her feelings for him are no longer innocent admiration. And when fate turns against the Duke himself, Ravella must prove that it is she who holds the power to save not only his life… but his heart.