"An IRRESISTIBLE exciting romantic suspense"

In 1813, Claire Banning Lynes escapes from her abductors who are in deadly pursuit. They insist they just want a ransom, but Claire knows her feckless spouse does not have the money to pay a even small sum, as the glamorous heir to the Duke of Richmond, David, wastes his little income on hedonistic pursuits. So the determined and logical Claire concludes that fleeing from her kidnappers is her only chance to survive.

However, Lord Hugh Battancourt intercepts her flight to freedom. He thinks Claire is an evasive French spy that he, as an agent of His Majesty's Secret Service, has been after for quite a while. While Claire protests otherwise, Hugh goes from disbelieving cynic to a besotted lover. However, not only is she married but he still wonders if his heart is betraying his brain?

Regency romance readers will find Karen Robards second Banning sister tale an IRRESISTIBLE exciting romantic suspense starring two delightful lead protagonists sharing two things: love and distrust. The story line never eases up on the action yet the talent of Ms. Robards enables the audience to appreciate Claire and Hugh even in an adulterous relationship. Though the solution to their problem is too obviously facilitated, fans will relish this tale as much as the first installment (see SCANDALOUS) and look forward to the next sibling's novel.

Harriet Klausner

Reviewed by Harriet Klausner
Posted August 25, 2002