Books of the week June 29

Title: “The Duchess Deal” 
Author: Tessa Dare 
Level: Adult

The Duke of Ashbury has been nothing but brooding and menacing since he returned from the war, scarred in more ways than one.  Now, Ashbury needs a wife only due to the fact that he needs an heir. At the exact moment he comes to terms with the fact he must marry, in walks Emma Gladstone. Emma is a vicar’s daughter that’s been turned out and is now trying to support herself as a seamstress. The Duke decides that Emma will suffice as his bride. He has a few conditions pending their nuptials, as does Emma.  

“The Duchess Deal” is all over BookTalk. These two strong-willed characters will draw you in fast. They each marry for convenience, and it quickly becomes a love match. Neither of them expected this turn of events. The Duke learns that attraction and love is a lot more than surface level. You can find “The Duchess Deal” and the two other books in the series on the library’s reading apps, Libby and Hoopla. 

Title: “Twice Shy” 
Author: Sarah Hogel 
Reading Level: Adult

Maybell Parrish is a secret dreamer. Whenever she has the chance, she daydreams she is at the “Maybell’s Coffee Shop AU.” This is the coffee shop of her dreams. It’s full of red vinyl booths, blue tile floors and every baked good imaginable. However, reality all comes calling in the form of a ringing red rotary phone. In reality, Maybell works at a random chain hotel in Pigeon Forge and lives paycheck to paycheck. Suddenly, her great aunt Violent dies and leaves Maybell her large estate. Maybell decides that the estate will be her fresh start. But Aunt Violet had a plan. 

This book is the sophomore debut for Hogel. In this novel, she perfectly blends romance and comedy. The dynamic of the two characters is captivating and hilarious. This book is a must read for rom-com lovers. You can find this book at the library or on the Libby app.