Donna Hatch is the author of the best-selling “Rogue Hearts
Series,” and a winner of writing awards such as The Golden Quill and the
International Digital Award. A hopeless romantic and adventurer at heart, she
discovered her writing passion at the tender age of 8 and has been listening to
those voices ever since. She has become a sought-after workshop presenter, and
also juggles freelance editing, multiple volunteer positions, and most of all,
her six children (seven, counting her husband). A native of Arizona who
recently transplanted to the Pacific Northwest, she and her husband of over
twenty years are living proof that there really is a happily ever after.
The last thing Hannah Palmer wants to
do is flirt with men in a crowded ballroom, but when her sister, the Countess
of Tarrington, throws a Masquerade Ball, Hannah can’t say no to the invitation.
Taking comfort behind her disguise, she dances with a charming masked
gentleman, matching him wit for wit. When the glorious evening culminates in a
kiss, and the two remove their masks, Hannah is horrified to discover the man
she’s been flirting with all night is her most despised neighbor, the Duke of
Suttenberg.
No matter how charming the duke was at the ball, and how wonderful
the kiss, he is the last man she could ever love.
Snippet:
Alicia twisted around in bed and fixed her amber gaze on Hannah. “I’m so
happy that you’re finally letting me throw a ball in your honor.”
Hannah winced. “Yes, I just adore big parties filled with rooms of
people I don’t know.”
“I know how you feel about it, dearest,” Alicia said soothingly. “But
this will be a good practice for you before you go to London this Season. When
I’m finished with you, society will toast you as the New Incomparable.”
“I’ll be a clumsy, tongue-tied idiot, just like always.”
“You’re only clumsy when you’re nervous. More practice at social events
will help you not to be nervous.”
Not be nervous in public? Hardly likely.
Alicia tapped her on the nose. “You are a beautiful and accomplished
daughter of a respected gentleman, and the sister of a countess. No need to
fear.”
“I hear blondes aren’t fashionable this year.”
“The only ones who say blond hair isn’t in fashion are those who are
jealous. Just keep your head high and smile as if you know an embarrassing
secret about everyone.”
Hannah stared into the flames writhing in the hearth. “It’s not that
simple.”
“It is that simple.” Alicia squeezed her. “If you say next to nothing,
everyone will think you are mysterious and will be all the more fascinated with
you. Besides, you’ll wear a mask tonight. Surely anonymity will lend you
courage.”
“I hope you’re right.”
Spending the evening alone with Alicia and her charming husband, Cole,
would be preferable to a room full of strangers. But perhaps Alicia was right;
a costume and mask might help Hannah find some courage buried deep inside.
