Matchmaking Chronicles Series by Darcy Burke

It was loathe at first sight when Cecilia Bromwell met John Rowley, the Earl of Cosford five years ago at a party where his ill-conceived prank and irascible temper ruined not one but two of her new gowns. Now, at a Yuletide house party, Cecilia learns their parents seek to match them in wedded bliss. However, she has no interest in even speaking with the “Menace,” especially after he spills wine down her bodice, ruining yet another gown... moreIt was loathe at first sight when Cecilia Bromwell met John Rowley, the Earl of Cosford five years ago at a party where his ill-conceived prank and irascible temper ruined not one but two of her new gowns. Now, at a Yuletide house party, Cecilia learns their parents seek to match them in wedded bliss. However, she has no interest in even speaking with the “Menace,” especially after he spills wine down her bodice, ruining yet another gown.John has no desire to be paired with the “Shrew” for the Yule log hunt. But if they can suffer each other’s company for a short time, perhaps they can convince their parents that they do not suit. When they’re separated from everyone else and a snowstorm drives them to seek shelter alone in a cottage together, it may not matter what they want.With marriage all but imminent, can these enemies become lovers by morning? less

As a refinement tutor, Mrs. Juno Langton helps young ladies develop the skills and confidence to secure an advantageous marriage. Her cheerful disposition never wavers no matter how challenging her assignment. When a house party provides an opportunity to match her difficult charge with a duke, Juno will go to any lengths to satisfy her employer and ensure the young lady’s future. Too bad the duke is an unsmiling, rigid grouch, albeit an irritatingly handsome one... moreAs a refinement tutor, Mrs. Juno Langton helps young ladies develop the skills and confidence to secure an advantageous marriage. Her cheerful disposition never wavers no matter how challenging her assignment. When a house party provides an opportunity to match her difficult charge with a duke, Juno will go to any lengths to satisfy her employer and ensure the young lady’s future. Too bad the duke is an unsmiling, rigid grouch, albeit an irritatingly handsome one.The Duke of Warrington dislikes social gatherings and despises the Marriage Mart which makes it nigh impossible to find a wife. He plans to secure his future duchess at a house party, but she’s being managed by a thoroughly meddlesome—and provocative—Mrs. Langton, who is determined to find his better nature. He’ll do anything to avoid her sunny charm and room-brightening smiles, but she’s breaking through his shell and the only way he can think to keep her quiet is to kiss her. He must marry the young lady, not desire the companion.But now he’s rethinking his wife choices. less

Two years ago, independent widow Juliana Sheldon spent a blissful night with the Viscount Audlington at an inn during a snowstorm, and the next morning, he left without a word. Juliana doesn’t realize how much his abandonment upset her until she encounters him at a matchmaking house party. He’d like to rekindle their affair, but Juliana prefers to torment him instead... moreTwo years ago, independent widow Juliana Sheldon spent a blissful night with the Viscount Audlington at an inn during a snowstorm, and the next morning, he left without a word. Juliana doesn’t realize how much his abandonment upset her until she encounters him at a matchmaking house party. He’d like to rekindle their affair, but Juliana prefers to torment him instead. Until she finally surrenders to temptation—only to be dismayed when he begins to talk about the one thing she doesn’t want: marriage.Lucas Trask, heir to an earldom, has left his rakish reputation behind in favor of finally taking a wife. He never forgot Juliana and reconnecting with her seems like fate is telling him who he should wed. However, Lucas has a secret, one he’s never dared share with anyone. If he can convince Juliana to be his wife, he’ll reveal everything. But when tragedy strikes, he must leave again. This time, the runaway viscount may be all out of luck. less

Widower James Ludlow, Earl of Rotherham, attends a house party in search of a mother for his two daughters, and his primary requirement is that he doesn’t fall in love. Having already given that emotion to his former wife without reciprocation, he prefers a mutually beneficial arrangement without sentimentality. However, he meets a charming widow with seemingly wonderful maternal instincts, and he can’t ignore the sparks between them... moreWidower James Ludlow, Earl of Rotherham, attends a house party in search of a mother for his two daughters, and his primary requirement is that he doesn’t fall in love. Having already given that emotion to his former wife without reciprocation, he prefers a mutually beneficial arrangement without sentimentality. However, he meets a charming widow with seemingly wonderful maternal instincts, and he can’t ignore the sparks between them. Perhaps a little passion wouldn’t be so unwelcome…Everyone thinks Charlotte Dunthorpe is a widow, but she’s only pretending to be. When her dear friend invites her to a matchmaking house party that isn’t only for the purposes of marriage, Charlotte is tempted to indulge in a short liaison. Instead, the dashing and kind-hearted Rotherham offers her the chance for the family she always wanted. She must refuse or risk exposing her devastating secrets and ensuring the absolute ruin of all that she holds dear. less