"Rich, emotional, riveting Regency romance."

Octavia Vaux-Daventry fulfills her promise to her deceased grandfather and mother by masquerading as a lady within the ton for 12 long years. The daughter of a banished nobleman and an actress, her grandfather acknowledged her only when she swore to conceal her past. The infamous promise includes her marrying the Earl of Spinton. Her grandfather thought the alliance would purify the family line. Octavia realizes she can't postpone the marriage much longer, but continuing to deny her true nature is taking quite a toll on her. To her horror, Spinton hires her past secret love, North, to investigate troubling letters she's been receiving.

North Sheffield-Ryland, the illegitimate son of Viscount Ryland and a famous actress, lives on the fringes of society. Accepted by his father and brothers, North tries to belong in their aristocratic circle, but fails miserably. Now, North inquires and solves confidential problems for the very people who disdain him. His peace of mind is severely tested as the Earl of Spinton employs him to probe into letters anonymously delivered to Octavia - his childhood friend and soul mate, the woman he continues to love, but who's forbidden to him.

Octavia struggles with the oaths she gave to her family as her love for North is rekindled. His presence permeates into her very being. North knows Octavia can never find personal happiness by breaking her word and once again attempts to leave. Only Octavia can remove the obstacles between them.

IN YOUR ARMS AGAIN is another rich, emotional gem from Ms. Smith. Controlling one's destiny and accepting one's past are dramatically interwoven with the cruelty of lost love in this riveting love story.

Reviewed by Suan Wilson
Posted May 12, 2004