"First book in a new trilogy featuring the mysterious fellowship of the Black Phoenix."

Something sinister lurks within a place called Paradise. Although touted as an exclusive resort for the cream of English society where every fantasy is fulfilled, darkness prevails, threatening the very souls of everyone who enters. The Black Phoenix, a secret circle of persons sworn to right the wrongs of high society, knows Paradise must be destroyed and issues a "summons" to those in a position to aid in that end.

It is Lord Dering's past failures, guilt and debts that make him a prime candidate. Refusal is not an option. At first, Jarrett doesn't see Paradise as being the worst of what the world has to offer. His estrangement from his family and decision to live a life of his choosing have made him witness to all manner of debauchery. Not until he is planted inside Paradise and paired with Kate Falshaw, a flawlessly beautiful actress also summoned by the Black Phoenix with her own list of past offenses, does he see the real danger. As the true diabolic nature of Paradise is slowly revealed and the lives of Jarrett and Kate become more intimately entwined, they realize that the most dangerous part of their assignment won't be the destruction of Paradise.

A flawless writing style is but one of the elements that makes this a truly unforgettable story. The hero and heroine, both with transgressions they'd prefer to leave in the past, are thrown together in what begins as a serious, but apparently not too dangerous, undertaking. Once the main characters are introduced and the stage set, however, the story escalates, taking on an increasingly dark tone as the true nature of what must be dealt with is revealed. With the romance between the hero and heroine fully established, the reader is left to wonder who among the characters is actually responsible for the wickedness of Paradise and who is innocent victim. There is, of course, the required happy ending, but what an adventure you'll have in getting there. This is the first book in a new trilogy set in Regency England featuring the mysterious fellowship of the Black Phoenix, and I can't wait for the others.

Reviewed by Margaret Ohmes
Posted October 18, 2004

"Exotic adventure, dangerous intrigue, and seductive passion" (Booklist) are the hallmarks of award- winning author Lynn Kerstan. Now she presents a trilogy about a secretive fellowship dedicated to righting wrongs in the highest circles of Regency society, and the men and women who risk their lives—and their hearts—in the cause of justice.

Summary

"You are summoned to Paradise..."

One of these challenging invitations is accepted by Jarrett, Lord Dering, a family outcast who lives by his own rules...the other by Kate Falshaw, a high-tempered actress on the run from a scandalous past. The exclusive resort promises to fulfill every desire, but beneath the glittering surface deadly games are in play...

Jarrett and Kate, with nothing in common and nothing to lose, are forced into a dangerous alliance against a powerful enemy. But the daring masquerade that hides their true purpose also sets them on a journey of self- discovery. When Kate's antagonism yields to Jarrett's seductive charm, the unexpected passion engulfs them both. Jarrett longs to understand the secrets of his tormented and beautiful new companion. And as the two work their way into the dark heart of Paradise, through its perils and mysteries, they discover that Kate's own past could prove to be the gravest threat of all.