"An engaging early Americana romantic romp"
Twelve years ago Anya Sedley was thought dead in the
shipwreck that took the lives of her parents. However, she
managed to find haven on the Caribbean Island of Puerta
Sirena where the ragtag locals treated her as a Love
Goddess. Anya returned to North Carolina high society, but
has had trouble readjusting. Having run through a chain of
tutors, governesses, and companions, she has earned the
reputation as the Beast of Rose Hill. Her desperate
grandmother wants Julian DeButy to "tame" and marry Anya. Julian tries to teach the wild and spirited Anya how to
behave in polite company. However, Anya plans to provide
him special sexual lessons in her bed. As they battle for
the role of teacher, they fall in love. However, Anya does
not trust those feelings and Julian is bewildered by his
needs for her that go contrary to his vow of celibacy. DEBUTY & THE BEAST is an engaging early Americana romantic
romp that will delight sub-genre fans with the antics of
the lead female character. The story line is filled with
plenty of humor, a bit of pathos, and some action. Julian
is a wonderful protagonist struggling between his belief
that celibacy equates to good health vs. his overwhelming
desire to make love with Anya. The support cast provides a
feel for the era, insight into the prime couple, and the
impetus for the action. However, Linda Jones' tale belongs
solely to the feral heroine who the audience will adopt as
a favorite. Harriet Klausner
Reviewed by PNR Group Member
Posted April 9, 2002
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