Normally in such circumstances, Gloria’s preferred choice is to run. No matter, however, because Gloria refuses to allow herself a slice of romantic happiness after watching what her father’s death did to her mother. Gloria was smitten with Christopher when he interrupted her sky-walking lecture to expound on his own celestial knowledge, and continues to be attracted to him even though he repeatedly reiterates her belief that she’s very dumb. It’s Nick’s new fiancée’s idea to set Christopher up with a matchmaker – and the matchmaker they select is Gloria. When Nick announces his betrothal and the banns are posted, women do indeed flock to Christopher – but Christopher couldn’t give a flying fig, as he wants is to emerge from Nick’s shadow, not become his clone. Christopher embarked upon the season hoping to find himself a wife, but has instead indulged his passion for astronomy – one that Gloria shares. Christopher Pringle is an enigma and unable to attract even a quarter of the female attention Nick does. When compared to his rakish brother Nick, Mr. All she yearns for is to be noticed – especially by a mysterious duke who catches her eye during one of her stargazing excursions.

Gloria Goodwin, daughter of a the Royal Navy captain, runs a stargazing lecture at Marlowe Castle called sky-walking – the best way for her to feel slightly more visible against a world that seems dedicated to making her invisible. Erica Ridley’s story about astronomy, fear, and flirtation, Wish Upon a Duke, has a few charming points but subjects us to a hero who thinks that the heroine is a hopeless ninny.

Once upon a duke erica ridley