"Another smart and clever story about the St. John brothers."

Lady Verena Westforth was blamed by society for the untimely death of her reckless husband four years ago. A social pariah among the ton, she carves a niche for herself in the demimonde with her careful planning. An invitation to one of Verena's dinners is considered quite a coup d'état. Happy in her home, Verena's only regret is the loneliness that's settled around her.

After missing a family meeting with his brothers, Brandon St. John discovers he's been elected to approach the adventuress, Verena Westforth. The exalted St. John family wishes to discourage her attention to their younger brother with a hefty payment to disappear. Brandon arrives on her doorstep with his presumptions and prejudices in place.

Never in his life has he been so wrong. This is no ordinary paramour. Verena brims with self-confidence and charm. Insulted, but not surprised, by his condescending attitude, Verena decides it's time for this pompous ass to receive a much-needed set down.

Enthralled with this lady of contradiction, Brandon enters into a battle of wits. Their attraction escalates as unexpected danger enters into their lives. A list involving national security has been stolen, and Verena, with her questionable background, is the prime suspect. Brandon and Verena must use all of their talents to entrap the villains.

A new and welcomed tale of the St. John brothers, Confessions of a Scoundrel will charm and delight readers with its clever characters, including the quirkiest servants ever to serve. Once again, Ms. Hawkins has penned a thoroughly entertaining novel.

Reviewed by Suan Wilson
Courtesy Old Book Barn Gazette
Posted February 13, 2003

2004 RITA for Best Short Historical Romance Finalist

Summary

Never has the irresistible rogue, Brandon St. John, pursued a woman with more fervor-but his ardent suit of Lady Verena Westforth has a different purpose. The delectable blond lovely is indeed enticing, but Brandon suspects her of hiding a valuable missive that he has sworn to recover. With a sensuous kiss and a passionate caress he intends to lower Verena's guard...and then discover where she's hidden "the goods."

Without the missive, Verena stands to lose the one thing dearest to her heart. And now an extraordinary man has entered her life...at the worst possible time! Vulnerable though she may be, Verena vows she will not be just another of Brandon's "conquests," even as she aches to melt in his arms. But is he a needed friend or a foe in alluring disguise...and will she be able to prove to him that love is their true destiny?