The Devil Duke's Defiant Lady

Most men try to bury a traumatic past, but Matthew Leighton's fading memories of his murdered parents are what drives him. Born in Spain to an English Lord and a Spanish lady of quality, his young existence had all but been brutally erased, his life salvaged only by the selfless deeds of others. Years later, the discovery of a devastating secret, fuels his quest for revenge, and sees him return to his father's homeland to confront those who'd betrayed him – his own family.

But kidnapping his cousin's betrothed had never been part of the plan.

Having survived the 'darker' side of polite society, Elizabeth Hollister learned not only to handle a pistol, but to rely on one person – herself. At twenty four, she intends to claim her inheritance and control her future. But when her plans for independence are stripped away and she is forced into a loveless engagement, she refuses to believe fate has dealt its final hand – even when she is kidnapped by a mysterious highwayman.

Forced to choose between being a prisoner of marriage or a madman's hostage, Elizabeth wants neither - until she realizes it's her heart that's being held for ransom.

**Previously published as 'Highwayman's Hostage'.