"Wonderful second story in the Rose Hunter trilogy."

Helena Nash's cool beauty and serene behavior have always drawn men to the elegant blonde. Before her father died, Helena would have welcomed their attention, but now as companion to an overbearing and disagreeable woman, Helena discourages men's advances. She only endures her current position in order to aid her employer's fragile niece, Flora. Delivering messages to Flora's lover puts Helena in her latest predicament. Dressed as a boy, Helena encounters trouble at Vauxhall Garden. Famed Scottish swordsman Ramsey Munro rescues her from unruly teenagers. Helena recognizes the Scotsman as one of the men who pledged his service to her family.

Ramsey Munro owes the Nash family a great debt. Years ago, Colonel Nash gave his life to free Ramsey and two other young Scots from the brutality of a French dungeon. Ramsey, a brilliant swordsman, watches Helena from afar. Society denies him entry due to his illegitimacy, but grants him the privilege of teaching their young. Surprised at her appearance in the infamous Lovers Walk, Ramsey strikes a bargain with Helena. He will show her adventure and teach her to fence, while keeping her safe.

Helena endures the role of placid companion as she hungers for passion and adventure. Accepting his offer, she shatters Ramsey's famous control, and he unleashes her hidden fire. Danger from Ramsey's past and evil stalking Helena may foil their future.

MY PLEASURE, the second in the Rose Hunter trilogy, teases readers with dueling dialogue and swordplay. Ms. Brockway interweaves a fascinating description of fencing while keeping the plot moving seamlessly along. The mystery of Ramsey and his friends' betrayer bubbles near the surface keeping the danger element alive for the next Rose Hunter tale.

Reviewed by Suan Wilson
Posted September 20, 2004