"Bastion Club series continues with this fast-paced, sensuous, exciting story."

Thirteen years ago, Lady Penelope Selborne sent Charles St. Austell away after a night of passion. At the age of 16, Penelope instinctively knew Charles would break her heart. He desired her, but he did not love her. She has since grown into an independent woman, rejecting all suitors who cannot give her the love she wants. Now, she will need that strength. Penelope is fighting for her family's honor. Uncovering a stash of valuable French pillboxes in a priest hold, Penelope is afraid her father sold secrets to the French.

Charles St. Austell, the ninth Earl of Lostwithiel, returns from France after being embedded as a spy during the war with Napoleon. Weary of the deceit, Charles looks forward to finding a wife and settling down to a quiet life. Unexpectedly, his commander recalls Charles to duty to investigate military secrets that were passed to France from his home in Cornwall. Running into Penelope, and finding her entangled in the scheme, surprises Charles. Wary of the only woman who ever rejected him, Charles plans to tread softly.

Charles and Penelope engage in a battle of wits that thrills and challenges them both. Passion, and their unquenchable thirst for one another, heightens as they work to solve the puzzle of the treasonous scheme.

Ms. Laurens shines with this fast-paced sensuous romance and exciting mystery in the third installment of the Bastion Club series. The love scene sizzles and the tension is palpable between Charles and Penelope. A LADY OF HIS OWN is a superb read for a crisp autumn evening.

Reviewed by Suan Wilson
Posted September 20, 2004