A Gentleman Revealed (Lords of Avenleigh #1)

From New York Times bestselling author Deidre Knight, writing as Cooper Davis, comes a thrilling new romance series, set in an alternative Victorian world, where gentlemen may openly court and marry fellow noblemen....

Alistair Finley has spent years concealing the truth of his illegitimacy. The bastard son of the late king and half-brother to the man who now occupies the throne, Alistair fears ruination. He has never allowed himself love or companionship. Until he meets the handsome young Lord Marcus Avenleigh.

Marcus has spent two years attempting to gain the notice of the king's shy secretary. Tempting Alistair out of the shadows and into his bed, however, proves a daunting task. The self-proclaimed spinster has made a profession of decorating the wings of every social gala, denying Marcus and every other eligible bachelor a formal introduction.

When Lady Elsevier's annual ball presents a daring moment, Marcus invites Alistair to waltz. What Marcus can't know is that his would-be paramour has chosen drink and the life of a lonely bachelor above ever risking his heart, or his king's own reputation.He’s bound in lies and secrecy, and the past must never, ever be revealed... Rated '3/5 - Open door' for steam/spice/heat level.