"New book in Talisman Ring series is a pleasing, lighthearted romp."

Years ago, Kat Macdonald, a viscount's illegitimate daughter, thoroughly disgraced herself by eloping with a fortune hunter. The marriage never took place, and Kat, now a pariah, resides at her half-brother's estate. Not one to wallow in self-pity, Kat becomes a successful woman selling her beautiful stained glass creations to the very people who ignore her socially. That is, all except the men, who pinch and make improper proposals. Encountering her brother's new guest, who steals a kiss, Kat acts supremely disinterested.

Fleeing from England to escape the family curse, Devon St. John, a member of the wealthy St. John family, lands at his old friend's home in Scotland. His clever brother hid the St. John talisman ring on Devon. The ring ensures whoever is in possession will marry shortly thereafter. Devon can see only one way out of this debacle. He must pursue only ineligible women, and this earthy, redheaded Amazon is a perfect example.

Devon, used to women fawning over him, finds Kat's behavior a novelty and a challenge. Set upon seduction, he woos her with silken words and an offer of friendship. Kat responds slowly to his attention, praying her heart will not be broken again. For a happy ending, they must set aside their pride and listen to their hearts.

This latest addition to the Talisman Ring series is a lighthearted romp sure to please. Kat, an atypical heroine, is curvy and voluptuous, and she earns her own way. Devon is her match, as he's strong enough to ignore society and accept this unusual woman.

Reviewed by Suan Wilson
Posted May 12, 2004

Read an Excerpt

"My brother, Devon, left for Scotland in an effort to escape a foretold marriage. I only hope he has a very, very fast horse. He'll need one." Sara Montrose, the Countess of Bridgeton, to her friend, Sophia Hampton, Viscountess Easterly, while playing billiards at Chiswick Manor. Once upon a time, a beautiful woman locked away her heart from all who might try to enter ...

Summary

Katherine Macdonald once tasted the bitter poison of a broken heart. To protect herself, Kat put her feelings into a deep slumber. Now she lives in a cottage in a mystical wood where, assisted by seven hulking Scotsmen, she makes stained glass of magical beauty, happy in her isolation until ...

One day, a charming prince with black hair and deep blue eyes came riding into the mist-shrouded forest ...

Devon St. John has found himself in possession of the St. John talisman ring that curses the holder by clasping a wedding band on his finger when he least expects it. Devon vows that he will never give up his beloved freedom—even when an impulsive kiss from a beautiful Scotswoman with red gold hair casts a tantalizing spell ...

And so, the tale begins ...