Not Wicked Enough Jewel, Carolyn

Lord Mountjoy is a rake with a reputation — the kind of man polite society whispers about but never quite banishes. When he inherits a crumbling estate and a ward he never asked for, he's forced into the one role he's never played: responsible guardian. Enter Lily Wellstone, a governess with her own secrets and zero patience for libertines. She's there to protect her charge, not be charmed by a man who treats seduction like a second language. But the house is isolated, the tension is thick, and neither of them is quite as immune as they pretend. Carolyn Jewel writes Regency romance with heat and wit — this is enemies-to-lovers with actual stakes, sharp banter, and a hero whose redemption arc feels earned. Perfect for fans of Sarah MacLean or anyone who likes their historical romance a little bit dark and a lot swoon-worthy.