Regency England

Madeline Applegate, hurrying home before the storm hits and before her debilitating headache makes it impossible for her to remain upright, has miscalculated the distance. She barely makes it to a ramshackle shelter before the rain begins to pelt down and collapses in agony, losing consciousness quickly. When she awakens, she is in the arms of a strange man, and she is naked! Even worse, locals have discovered the two, and this is sure to bring the wrath of vicious rumors onto Madeline's shoulders.

Adrian Carter, Viscount Weller, hopes to outrun not only the storm, but also the man bent on killing him. When his horse veers off into the woods and he finds a bit of shelter, Adrian is stunned to discover a young woman lying on the floor of the structure -- soaking wet and very still. He quickly surveys the situation and realizes that unless he removes her sopping clothes and gets her warm, she could be in great danger. Unfortunately, the only way he has of warming her is with his own body.

Certain that her reputation is damaged beyond repair, Madeline prays that her crippled father will be able to deal with the news. But when Adrian proposes to her, she is both surprised and oddly pleased. He is a rather handsome, kind gentleman, even though Madeline had long ago given up on the idea of marriage. As the eldest daughter, she feels obligated to care for her father. Her younger sisters are all married, although one is a widow. Adrian, however, confesses that even though they may marry, he may not be around much longer if the man who vows to kill him succeeds.

Fragile, but shouldering the responsibility of her father and their family, Madeline is a striking heroine. As she fights her crippling headaches, she also finds herself taking on the social scene and dealing with the unkind, biting comments about her quick marriage. Finding herself leaning on Adrian more and more, Madeline wonders how she will deal with life without him. Adrian, honorable and stoic about life, battles his own demons -- nightmares of the war. Despite the fact that he had no intention of marrying due to his circumstances, he finds the prospect of marriage to Madeline enticing.

A LADY BETRAYED continues the story of the Applegate sisters (SEDUCING SIR OLIVER and A LADY OF SCANDAL). The ton has nothing on rural English villages as the scandal swirls through town. With mysterious strangers, a new friend, and a tentative future with the viscount, Madeline's story plays out with plenty of excitement. Will Adrian outlast his tormented dreams? Can he continue to evade his enemy? Readers will have plenty to chew on in this wonderful tale.

For lots of romance, a taste of mystery, and two very appealing lead characters, I highly recommend A LADY BETRAYED.

Jani Brooks