Synopsis
Casey McQuiston meets Queer Bridgerton in this stunning, artistic romance by genre powerhouse KJ Charles, author of The Gentle Art of Fortune Hunting
"KJ Charles is, in my opinion, a titan of her genre.”
TALIA HIBBERT
It is 1821 and Nicolas-Marc, Comte de Valois de La Motte is making a splash in London Society. The son of Jeanne de Valois de La Motte, infamous for stealing a priceless diamond necklace meant for Marie Antoinette, Nico hopes to restore his wronged mother's reputation, if only he can raise the funds. But he must operate with great secrecy, because the Bourbon dynasty murdered his mother, and he fears for his life.
At least, that's what he tells Titus Pilcrow. Titus was a simple shopkeeper, making and selling artists' paints, when he found himself suddenly married to an immensely wealthy woman who wanted to disinherit her nephew on her deathbed. As word spreads of his fortune, Titus finds himself a target of every scammer and beggar in London . . . including one Nicolas-Marc, Comte de Valois de La Motte.
Nico is on his last legs, out of money, and on the run from some terrifying gangsters. When Titus offers Nico a space in his household, it's the perfect chance for him to exploit London's newest golden purse - until he falls in love with the man he needs to cheat. Still, Nico is sure they can have a happy ending together. If he can just find his way out of his own web of lies . . .
"KJ Charles is one of the best romance novelists writing today. Historical romance at its finest."
SARAH MACLEAN
Details
30 April 2026
9781035037865Reviews
As always, Charles combines masterful prose, thrilling romance, fantastic wit, and gripping stakes. Her characters feel as real and relatable as a bruise. She is, in my opinion, a titan of her genreTalia Hibbert, on The Secret Lives of Country Gentlemen
KJ Charles is one of the best romance novelists writing today. Historical romance at its finestSarah MacLean, New York Times bestselling author, on The Secret Lives of Country Gentlemen
A romantic, swashbuckling tale from start to finishManda Collins, bestselling author of A Lady's Guide to Mischief and Mayhem
The Duke at Hazard is my dream historical romance: emotional and intimate, but also full of wit, humor, and a lovable cast of supporting characters.Martha Waters, author of To Woo and to Wed
