"Fantastic first book in a series about the Ryland brothers."

Lady Blythe Christian has been hiding on her family's country estate for two years, since her betrothed publicly humiliated her by wedding another. As a six-foot tall redhead, she's never fit into society, and Blythe believes her only appeal is her large dowry. Hurt by her suitor's rejection, she encases her heart in ice and flaunts society by avoiding the London season, stating she will only marry a man who truly loves her.

Devlin Ryland, youngest son of a viscount, returns from a decade of war haunted by the memory of killing. His troubled soul craves solitude and peace, which he's determined to find in the English countryside. While visiting a friend, the beguiling Blythe catches his attention. Despite her cynicism, she responds to Devlin's warmth and quiet compassion.

Caught in a compromising position, Devlin offers a marriage based on friendship, but Blythe refuses to wed without love. Pride, and the belief that they're too flawed, keep them apart. It's only when they learn the reality of love that the darkness leaves their hearts.

FOR THE FIRST TIME gives us unique characters who capture our hearts. It will be difficult waiting for the next Ryland brother in Ms. Smith's new series.

Reviewed by Suan Wilson
Courtesy Old Book Barn Gazette
Posted September 23, 2003

Summary

No love blazes hotter than the one that burns For the First Time Devlin Ryland has returned to London in triumph, acclaimed throughout the city for his courage at Waterloo and selfless rescue of a fellow soldier. But Devlin wants no part of his newfound glory -- until he escapes to the country estate of a friend and encounters the one woman for whom he would gladly play the hero: the statuesque beauty Lady Blythe Christian. Unfortunately, the lady who so stirs his passions wants nothing at all to do with England's heralded champion. The man Devlin saved was Blythe's betrothed...who then heartlessly married another. Now the pain only intensifies when Devlin is near -- though, truth be told, she is not unmoved by the strength of his character and his considerable charms. But with heartbreak so fresh in her memory, how can noble Devlin convince Blythe to trust again... because only then can he show her what it is to be loved for the first time.