"Highly entertaining Regency romance."

Camille Croft dreams of the day Lt. Eric Fox opens his eyes and sees her not as his best friend's sister, but as a desirable woman. As Camille campaigns to gain Eric's attention, she's dealt a serious setback when he rescues a damsel-in-distress and circumstances place her in Camille's care. A robust and outgoing young woman, Camille realizes she compares badly to the dainty and vulnerable Nell, whom he saved.

Eric's weary return to civilian life is complicated by his reoccurring bouts of malaria. The consuming fever and intense headaches give no warning to their onset and render him helpless. Until his condition improves, he refuses to wed. Instead, he hides his attraction to the forthright Camille. Only his uneasiness regarding Nell keeps him at Camille's side.

Eric's intuition is correct when Nell brings trouble to them, but not before she gives Camille an unexpected education. Mayhem follows as Nell's manipulations unfold. Camille, who never was a delicate miss, rises boldly to the challenges that ensue.

Ms. Layton has penned an entertaining Regency love story with a remarkable heroine. Camille takes charge of her life, not waiting to be rescued. Readers will enjoy the ending.

Reviewed by Suan Wilson
Courtesy Old Book Barn Gazette
Posted October 28, 2003