"Charming and passionate romance."

Vergil Duclaire's first sight of his ward, Bianca Kenwood, is in a theater, where she's scandalously clad, breaking every rule of society. He insists she return to his family home, where he plans for her to wed his brother, Dante. Of course, he can't confess these plans to her. Since all the women love Dante, it shouldn't be a problem to snare one young heiress.

Vergil has no idea whom he's dealing with. All Bianca wants is to be a singer. She doesn't plan on being married. And if she were to wed, it certainly wouldn't be to Dante. No, Vergil is the one who draws her glance and makes her think of giving up her singing dream and settling down.

Life isn't simple for Vergil and Bianca. There's blackmail and lust and Vergil's hidden agenda. But love thrives even during stressful times - if the two learn they can trust each other with their secrets and dreams.

I love Ms. Hunter and have read every one of her books. This story is charming, and the passion between Vergil and Bianca is sincere. But, the challenges they have to overcome to be together didn't draw me in as much as her past books have. I couldn't make myself care about the blackmail and other subplots. This is definitely a romance, as the feelings between the couple are the most overriding concern.

Reviewed by Morgan Chilson
Courtesy Old Book Barn Gazette
Posted October 29, 2003

Read an Excerpt

Nationally bestelling author Madeline Hunter has captivated fans with her unforgettable romance novels filled with suspense, seduction, mystery, and love. Her Seducer series features men of depth and action who are members of The Hampstead Dueling Society, who hone their skills with swords and pistols together. For some it is only for exercise and sport. For others it is preparation for the deadly confrontation that eventually comes.

Summary

The world thinks he is a paragon. A saint, by Zeus. If only they knew!

Vergil Duclairc is a man used to getting his way. As the newly appointed guardian and trustee of Miss Bianca Kenwood, he is determined to find her and bring her back to live with his family. The last thing he expects is to find his errant ward scandalously costumed and employed as a theatrical singer. He is even less prepared for the relentless attraction he feels for her, a desire that he cannot pursue lest it unmask secrets that he must hide, and unravel plans laid long ago.

Bianca has no interest in giving up her independence, but there is something compelling about this handsome and brooding viscount who seems to assume he owns her and her inheritance. She soon learns that Vergil is a man of secrets and sensuality, and that she is not immune to his power. Suddenly, in a moment that would change everything, their desire ignites and throws them into a scandalous passion, and into a world of dangerous intrigue.