"Fine Cynster clone"

In 1815, seven former "government" workers know that the adventure is over while mourning those of their comrades who have fallen during the victorious war against Napoleon. The magnificent seven sneak out of some boring event hosted by the unpopular Prinny and end up meeting at a tavern where they agree to form the Bastion Club, a kind of private place for retired aristocratic secret agents.

Tristan Wemyss oversees the renovations to 12 Montrose Place that the colleagues plan to turn into their club. Neighbor Leonore Carling believes that Tristan must be the villain trying to force her and her family out of 12 Montrose. He catches her snooping and she realizes he is not the guilty party. Intrigued by Leonore, he joins her investigation into uncovering the culprit harassing her and her family. As they share a passionate affair, she rejects his proposal as she only will marry for love, but doubts he feels like she does.

With the Cynsters barred from new romance novels, Stephanie Laurens begins a new series with the members of the Bastion Club. The lead couple of the first tale (of seven?) is an exciting duet whose romance and adventure will be appreciated by Regency readers. Die-hard fans of the Cynster tales will especially feel "Welcome" as Tristan could easily have been a Cynster or at least a clone since he shares many of their traits.

Harriet Klausner

Reviewed by Harriet Klausner
Posted August 10, 2003

Summary

Tristan Wemyss, Earl of Trentham, never expected he'd need to wed within a year or forfeit his inheritance. But he is not one to bow to the matchmaking mamas of the ton. No, he will marry a lady of his own choosing. And the lady he chooses is the enchanting neighbor living with her family next door. Miss Leonora Carling has beauty, spirit and passion; unfortunately, matrimony is the last thing on her mind ... To Leonora, Tristan's kisses are oh-so-tempting, but once bitten, forever shy, she has determinedly turned her back on marriage. But Tristan is a seasoned campaigner who will not accept defeat. And when a mysterious man attempts to scare Leonora and her family from their home, Tristan realizes he's been given the perfect excuse to offer his services -- as protector, seducer and, ultimately, husband.