The Lyon's Proxy Duke
A Regency Historical Romance
by Mihwa Lee
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Pub Date Apr 15 2026 | Archive Date Apr 18 2026
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Description
Enter the world of the most notorious gambling den in London, where matches are made... unusually. Welcome to the world of THE LYON'S DEN: The Black Widow of Whitehall Connected World, where the underground of Regency London thrives... and loves.
She bought a husband to secure her freedom. He came to collect.
Eleanor Sinclair has built her independence brick by brick, transforming from a grieving widow into London's most formidable businesswoman. When her scheming executor threatens to strip away everything she's fought for, she makes a devil's bargain—a proxy marriage to an absent duke who promises to stay conveniently abroad. But her carefully ordered world shatters when Damien Westmore appears in her drawing room, drinking her brandy with insufferable confidence and no intention of leaving. Now the man she married for protection wants to claim his wife, and Eleanor discovers that her greatest threat isn't losing her fortune—it's losing her heart to the one person who has no intention of staying.
Three years of hunting through opium dens and foreign ports have left Damien Westmore hollowed out and desperate. When his brother vanishes back into the London underworld that had nearly killed him, Damien abandons his exile to reclaim the one weapon that can save them both—his proxy wife's connections and wealth. But Eleanor isn't the aging widow he expected; she's a brilliant, beautiful woman who challenges him at every turn and makes him burn with desire he can't afford to feel. As a deadly enemy closes in on everything they hold dear, Damien must choose between the brother he's spent years protecting and the wife who's become his salvation.
Tropes You'll Love:
✔ Marriage of Convenience
✔ Proxy Marriage
✔ Independent Widow
✔ Forced Proximity
✔ Protective Hero
✔ Opposites Attract
✔ Unexpected Love
Available Editions
| EDITION | Ebook |
| ISBN | 04032026TLPD1 |
| PRICE | $3.99 (USD) |
Available on NetGalley
Average rating from 35 members
Featured Reviews
Pamela B, Reviewer
Eleanor loses her husband and has a difficult time holding onto to her money/assets.
Bessie Dove-Lyon helps her find a proxy husband whose name and Duke title will protect her even though he is absent.
Problems begin when Damien returns to London and disrupts her well ordered life.
He has spent his time and fortune helping his addicted brother overcome his demons leading him back to London.
They circle each other beginning to fall in love.
Lies and treachery threaten their existence as well as their newly forming relationship.
Twists in the story keep you guessing.good banter with some sensual scenes keeps the story exciting.
If you are looking for a Regency romance that perfectly balances sharp wit with profound emotional depth, The Yvony's Proxy Duke is an absolute triumph. It isn't just a love story; it’s a celebration of partnership, respect, and the strength found in vulnerability.
A Heroine for the Ages
The heart of this novel is undoubtedly the protagonist. She is a breath of fresh air—sharp-witted, fiercely independent, and unapologetically herself. Unlike many heroines of the genre who find their power through a man, she begins the story already knowing her worth. She refuses to be sidelined or "tamed," and what makes this book truly special is that her relationship with the Duke never diminishes her. Instead, their bond acts as a catalyst that elevates her, highlighting her values and allowing her independence to shine even brighter.
Growth and Devotion
The Duke is equally compelling. Often, "powerful" male leads can lean into arrogance, but here we see a man deeply devoted to his family and burdened by responsibility. His character arc is beautifully handled; watching him learn how to drop his guard and actually ask for support was incredibly moving. His greatest strength, however, is his ability to recognize and honor the brilliance of the woman beside him. He doesn't just love her; he respects her as his equal.
Wit, Humor, and Heart
The writing is where this book truly sparkles. The narrative is driven by:
The Banter: The "enemies-to-lovers" energy is high, featuring sharp, fast-paced bickering that will have you laughing out loud. The chemistry is electric.
The Emotion: Just as you’re recovered from a laughing fit, the author hits you with an emotional declaration so raw and sincere it’ll have you reaching for the tissues.
Carol F, Reviewer
This was an excellent read. It involved Eleanor who had made a proxy marriage with the Duke of Westmore to protect her fortune from a corrupt solicitor he was supposed to be absent but has returned. Looking for his brother a recovering addict. The tale wends it's way through the trials as both try to find a way of dealing with each other and the problems that involves.
It was a very nice read with lots of drama and romance
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