"Delightful start to a new Regency series starring the Griffin family."

Lady Eleanor Griffin notes a pattern in her life. When she attempts to have fun, her brothers immediately squash it with lectures on propriety and the need to protect the 800- year-old Griffin name from scandal. Since she's had several seasons, Eleanor has no illusions why most men court her -- she bears a distinguished name and is an heiress. However, before she settles down, Eleanor wants to experience an adventure and taste a small amount of freedom. Declaring her independence, Eleanor strikes a bargain with her brothers. They will not intimidate her and Eleanor promises not to bring scandal upon them.

Valentine, the Marquis of Deverill, devotes his life to his hedonistic lifestyle. Before succumbing to syphilis, his father taught him that women are schemers and manipulators to be bedded, not befriended. Valentine's liaisons are legendary, as he casts his green-eyed gaze upon women, making them feel wicked and wanton. When his good friend, Sebastian, the Duke of Melbourne, asks him to keep an eye on his sister and become her mentor and companion in "sin," Valentine is forced by obligation to agree. He befriends Eleanor and is surprised at the result.

Eleanor's rebellion consists of intangible desires that intrigue Valentine. Soon, Valentine, the teacher of sin, is caught in Eleanor's passion for life. But can the sinner convince the innocent to trust him with her heart?

Ms. Enoch begins a new Regency series starring the Griffin family. Eleanor's story should catch readers' fancy with a heroine filled with boundless curiosity, who teaches a scoundrel to open his heart.

Reviewed by Suan Wilson
Posted January 10, 2005

Summary

Young Ladies Just Want To Have Fun . . . Unfortunately Eleanor Griffin has three strapping brothers to frighten away any beau they deem unsuitable.She knows she's expected to marry eventually -- probably to some staid, crusty old lord -- but until that dark day dawns, Nell intends to enjoy herself. However, brother Sebastian, Duke of Melbourne, isn't about to let his sister run completely wild, and asks his best friend, the Marquis of Deverill, to keep a close eye on the spirited lovely. Could any chaperone be less qualified -- yet moreappreciated -- than Valentine Corbett? Here is a man as sinful as he is attractive, a notorious rake, gambler,and pursuer of women whom Nell has fancied sincegirlhood. Alas, the irresistible rogue seems uncharacteristically determined to be honorable, despite the passionate longing in his gaze. And Nellmust tread carefully, for she has promised to immediately wed whomever her siblings choose should so much as a hint of scandal arise . . .