The Duke and I (Bridgerton era)

Everyone seemed to be enjoying themselves at the ball, which brought together the cream of London society. Everyone, that is, except for two people. Daphne, a beautiful young woman burdened by her mother, and Simon, the surly new Duke of Hastings, had the same problem: constant pressure to find a partner. Upon meeting, they came up with the perfect plan: to fake an engagement that would free them from further burdens. But it wouldn't be easy, as Daphne's brother, a friend of Simon's, is not easily fooled, nor are the experienced ladies of high society. However, what would truly complicate matters would be the appearance of an element not foreseen in this two-sided game: love.

THEY DEVISED A PERFECT PLAN IN WHICH LOVE HAD NO PLACE...
Since her debut in society, Daphne has not had a moment's rest. It's her mother's fault, whom she adores, but who is obsessed with finding her a husband as soon as possible. The worst part is that reasonably desirable men are not interested, and those who are, are tirelessly annoying and she has to get rid of them... even by force. That's why she gladly accepts the Duke of Hastings' idea of faking an engagement to ward off suitors. Although perhaps the fact that the young Duke is starting to seem more and more seductive to her also has something to do with it.

BUT THERE ARE SOME THINGS YOU CAN'T ESCAPE
Marked by a childhood full of loneliness and resentment, Simon Basset, the new Duke of Hastings, wants nothing to do with London's social life, nor, of course, with the attempts of elegant ladies to "snare" him as a husband for their daughters. When he meets Daphne, he believes he has found the perfect plan: a fictitious engagement that will keep away the suitors who overwhelm him. And when the feigned attraction begins to turn into something too real, Simon will have to face the ghosts of the past that prevent him from enjoying the happiness that destiny places within his reach.