This rake is about to learn a lesson he'll never forget!

If there's one thing Society knows about Thorne Cumming, the new Duke of Stroken—do not call him Stroke for the love of God—it's that he enjoys the pleasures offered by a lady. Or two ladies—or even a gentleman. Or all of them at once; he's not picky when it comes to pleasure, or to satisfying others. But now his uncle's gone and selfishly died, Thorne is having to learn how to Duke.

But dukes must choose their bedfellows carefully. In fact, there's an entire brigade of matchmaking mamas out there determined to throw their sweet little angels into said bed and cry scandal. And Thorne's doing everything he can to avoid such a disaster, mainly because despite what Society believes about his interests and abilities, he's busy saving the Crown from a traitor who is days away from falling into the trap he's been orchestrating for months!

Who would have thought his new valet would be the answer to both problems?

After years on stage, Kit Pastorino has come to London undercover; she wants to learn all she can about her estranged father before she reveals herself. What better way than to go into service dressed as a lad? Her new role as the Duke of Stroken's footman is going well…until she finds herself unexpectedly promoted to the man's valet. Her performing skills have never before been so useful—or more necessary.

But…Thorne is a charmer, and while he makes it clear he could bring her all sorts of pleasure, Kit is doing her best to resist his allure and maintain her disguise. Until the horrible, wonderful moment he finds out the truth about her: not just what lies beneath her trousers, but who she really is…and how she can help him spring his trap.