"Conclusion to the Heiress trilogy is totally delightful."

American heiress Adele Wilson, considered nouveau rich and snubbed in New York society, follows her older sisters' example and snags an English nobleman. Adele, known as the perfect one as opposed to her wild sisters, believes adventure is not for her. Her beliefs are sorely tested when she is kidnapped immediately upon landing in England. Adele's safe world disappears. Rescued by her fiancé's cousin, she gets a peek at what life would be like married to a warrior. Suddenly the safe, secure life she planned is not appealing.

Damien Renshaw, Baron Alcester, falls in lust with his cousin's fiancé at first sight. Only his loyalty to his cousin prevents Damien from seducing Adele. Honor is all Damien has left after his late parents' scandalous behavior. Damien tries avoiding Adele, but circumstances keep throwing her in his path. Cynicism regarding women's faithlessness helps Damien resist jeopardizing his relationship with his cousin, but Adele's allure draws him to her.

Adele must decide if the secure world she's envisioned for her future is what she truly wishes. Does she wish to be absorbed into English society, or does she wish to explore the feelings Damien has awakened in her?

This conclusion to the Heiress trilogy sparkles with the electric attraction between Adele and Damien. Ms. MacLean continues to provide historical fans with vibrant characters and strong storylines. Historical fans will relish this charming read.

Reviewed by Suan Wilson
Posted November 17, 2004

Summary

Could this love nonsense really be worth the trouble? To Adele Wilson the answer is clear: of course not! She has seen her two sisters dragged through scandal and heartbreak (not to mention every ballroom in London) to find the husbands of their dreams. And that's why she said yes to the first British lord who requested her hand. And why shouldn't she marry him? He is kind, honest, and not sentimental in the least. Unlike his wilder, taller, more mysterious cousin Damien Renshaw, Baron Alcester. Ignoring Damien altogether would be easy if he were the sort of man intent on seducing his cousin's betrothed. But he is clearly trying to resist her, and his suddenly proper behavior only makes him more tempting to the usually well- behaved Adele. Indeed, Damien seems to be bringing out another side of Adele, a heady, passionate, exhilarating side. It seems that fate is contriving to teach her -- against her best intentions -- exactly what this love nonsense is all about ...