"Strong Regency romance"

In 1835 though he is wealthy, belongs to a very prominent family, and can score with just about any female he chooses, Simon Frederick Cynster believes it is time to marry. He has no one in mind, but Simon feels that the right loving wife would fill the hole in his soul. However, he also knows he must not announce his intentions to the Ton or he will face an unending queue of wannabe wives.

Simon stealthily begins his quest at a house party, but is amazed to find childhood friend Portia Ashford as the best candidate. He becomes further convinced when they share a kiss that stirs his blood. He had never seen Portia in that light, but now all he must do is persuade her that marriage to him will not destroy her vaunted independence. He begins his campaign to win her love while she surprises herself by coveting more of his kisses. However, a murder occurs with the evidence pointing towards Portia probably being the next victim unless Simon can work the Cynster magic and keep his beloved safe.

Fans of the Cynster series will appreciate the tenth tale starring a charming couple. The story line contains much of the magic of the previous novels, but that is a two edged sword. The plot is exciting with plenty of intrigue and a fine lead duo, but also tends to leave long time readers having trouble delineating Simon from previous heroes such as Lucifer (see ALL ABOUT LOVE). Still Stephanie Laurens continues to rock readers with her newest strong Regency romance, THE PERFECT LOVER.

Harriet Klausner

Reviewed by Harriet Klausner
Posted January 15, 2003

It's a story that asks the question:
What would you do to entice...
The Perfect Lover?

Summary

Never let it be said that a Cynster male can't face up to the one unassailable truth: that a successful marriage gives life its fullest meaning. To all of English society, Simon Frederick Cynster has a perfect life - one of enormous wealth and impeccable social status. His lean handsomeness turns the heads of naïve debutantes, while his sensual allure ensures he never lacks for more sophisticated partners for a night, or more, of pleasure. Yet despite all of this, Simon knows that there is something - or rather someone - missing in his life.

To achieve true contentment, Simon accepts that he must find a lady accomplished enough to be his wife. Someone who will spend her days as a member of one of England's most influential families...and her nights pursuing duties of a more private - and personal - nature.

But Simon knows what to expect if he reveals his intention to choose a bride; nothing could be more tiresome than having every blushing miss on the marriage mart thrust upon him. So he discreetly begins his search at a house party at Glossup Hall...and is astonished that the lady who immediately captures his interest is Portia Ashford.

Simon has never considered Portia as a potential wife. He's known the raven-haired beauty since childhood; she's willfully independent and has always claimed to be uninterested in marriage. But an unexpectedly heated kiss abruptly alters the rules of their decade-long interaction. Soon they begin to long for the moments they can spend in each other's arms.

But all is not as it seems at Glossup Hall. As Simon and Portia begin to explore the depths of their mutual passion, a shocking murder is committed...and it appears that the next victim will be Portia herself. And even more shocking than the fact that a murderer secretly walks among them is the realization that all of Simon's considerable strength and influence may not be enough to protect Portia - his once and always perfect lover.