Emma Jensen is pulling a scam. Desperate for money, she poses as Lady Denmore. Because Lord Denmore was known as a recluse, no one questions her identity when she arrives in London, gambling with the local gentry. Emma's behavior is seen as eccentric and harmless and the local noblemen humor the young widow, excusing her outrageous behavior on being recently widowed. Then enters Duke of Somerhart, or Hart, a man from her past, only he doesn't know it. When he starts meddling in her affairs, it could possibly threaten everything that Emma is working hard for. All the while Emma must stay one step ahead of the past she left behind.A Rake's Guide to Pleasure is a cute romantic story. Emma is a woman with spunk and determination. She has goals and nothing will stand in her way. She has no regret posing as someone she's not. In her mind, she's not stealing from the noblemen; she is winning the money fair and square. I thought that her goading the men into gambling or betting on games of chance were cute and funny. When Hart enters the picture, I knew that Emma had met her match. Emma constantly frustrated Hart and left him flustered. Their romance was gradual and sweet. I wouldn't call it a hot relationship despite Hart's past as a rake. He was quite gentle with her.A Rake's Guide to Pleasure is a nice, romantic story that at times was humorous and sweet. The attraction was gradual but the sex wasn't too steamy even for this supposed rake. There were moments of steaminess but not enough in my opinion. Hart defies his reputation as a rake and is the hero that rescues the damsel in distress. But like most heroines with spunk and spine, Emma doesn't want to be rescued. Even when he perceives Emma's betrayal, he can't help but come to her aid.
