"Lush sensuality, subtle humor, and rich characters make this historical a very easy read"
Arielle Benoit, Countess D'Ambois, has only revenge on her
mind when she boards the ship of Lord Fox Grandquest. A
message, using Fox's seal and signature, set up Arielle and
her cousin, Prince Rudolpho Dragonetti, to be killed as
traitors. When he is shot while trying to get away, Arielle
goes after Fox to kill him. She is convinced he is the
traitor everyone calls Dandelion. Nevertheless, Fox isn't
easy to kill, and in the process of trying, Arielle is
wounded in the head and ends up in Fox's home. Pretending
to have amnesia, Arielle tries to find out who Fox really
is. Soon she finds herself doubting Fox's guilt. But fate
isn't so kind as to allow these two an easy road. Secrets
kept from one another could clear up many things, but trust
doesn't come easy to either of these proud, strong people.
Strange things keep happening that keep the confusion and
mistrust flowing between them. Ari learns that Dolpho
didn't die, but was found and brought to Fox's country home
to recover. Fox must never learn of Dolpho's presence, and
keeping the secret from him is getting harder and harder.
Messengers for the Crown are still being killed, important
documents taken from them. Fox suspects Ari, Ari suspects
Fox. Then Ari is almost killed after setting herself up as
bait to trap Dandelion. Does she really know who the traitor is, or will her
confidence prove fatal to both her and the man she loves?
Will Fox be able to forgive her for all the lies and
secrets, for suspecting him of being a traitor? This book is great on so many levels. Its lush sensuality,
subtle humor, and rich characters make it a very easy read.
Darkwood's voice is unique and very pleasing to the senses.
The story flows from plot to counter plot, and her
characters have great depth and strength. The love scenes
are very well done, and enhance the sensuality of the
story. The conflict is realistic; though not new, Darkwood
twists and turns it with the best of them. If you're
looking for a story with lots of suspense and a cast of
characters you cant help but fall in love with, you must
get this book. Jaycee / November, 1999
Copyright © 1999
Reviewed by PNR Group Member
Posted November 21, 2002
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