"First of two books about ladies who switch places and the fun involved."

Lady Madeline de Lacy, the future Duchess of Magnus, returns from a four-year, self-imposed exile in Europe. New locales and people did not erase the memory of her disastrous betrothal to a fortune-hunting rogue.

Instead of a warm welcome home, Madeline is horrified to learn that her irresponsible father has gambled away her inheritance and her hand in marriage. Desperate to stop her father from attending the Game of the Century and risking their last precious heirloom, Madeline exchanges places with her cousin and companion, Eleanor. Masquerading as Madeline, Eleanor will proceed to London and convince her new fiancé to end this betrothal farce; while Madeline will descend upon the country estate that's hosting the game disguised as a maid and evict her father from the competition.

Lord Gabriel Ansell won his fortune in a game of chance and loses his fiancée, who abhors gambling. After being publicly jilted, Gabriel retreats from society, only returning at the chance to revenge his brother's death. He returns to play in an exclusive card game, hosted by a con man and killer, Rumbelow. The added bonus is the unexpected appearance of his ex-fiancée ludicrously disguised as a servant. Aware that Madeline doesn't have a meek bone in her, Gabriel delights in tweaking and tormenting the new maid.

The sparks of desire return with a vengeance as Madeline and Gabriel match wits. Madeline refuses to compromise, but Gabriel rejects defeat. He knows this time he will win, but Rumbelow's plans for the heist of the century interrupt his seduction and place Madeline in mortal danger.

Sit back and enjoy the fireworks! Switching places has never been so fun. Madeline and Gabriel's antics are guaranteed to please. Sensuous and outrageous, Scandalous Again is an excellent read on a rainy day. I look forward to Eleanor's tale.

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