THE DUKE AND THE LADY IN RED – Lorraine Heath
The Scandalous Gentlemen of St. James , Book 3
Avon Books
ISBN: 978-06-227626-1
eISBN: 978-06-227627-8
May 2015
Historical Romance

London1874

Rose isn't all bad. She left a painful situation at age seventeen; what was she to do? She has obligations in her household, and she only chooses to swindle those who can afford to lose. She and her “family” recently arrived in London, and she's finagled an invitation to an exclusive ball at the Twin Dragons where she hopes to make connections. The Twin Dragons used to be a gentlemen's only club, but now it's open to women and rich commoners as well.

The Duke of Avondale is not pleased with the changes, but he's all for debauchery—though everything seems to bore him lately. But he suddenly sees an intriguing lady in red enter and soon finds her on a shadowy balcony. She gives her name as Mrs. Rosalind Sharpe and her status as a widow, and he immediately sets out to seduce her. Surprisingly, she doesn't instantly fall in with his wishes. Rose is attracted, but lets him know she's not that easy. She's not sure this man would be easily manipulated; in fact she can see he's probably dangerous.

I don't want to give a spoiler, but as the story progresses, watch for an incredible character who will grab your heart.

Wow! This is some story. I was a little uneasy at first at learning that Rose lives by conning the rich, and that Avondale lives a truly hedonistic life. But her story proves to be astonishingly captivating…and his can stir compassion as well. Be prepared for a long seduction and the slow revelation of what made these two characters who and what they are. I guarantee you will be caught up in their tale. For a most moving read, I strongly recommend Ms. Heath's excellent THE DUKE AND THE LADY IN RED.

Jane Bowers