A Perilous Attraction

I randomly picked this book up several years ago at a used book store, and have lost and re-bought it several times because every time I think of it, I NEED to read it again. The heroine, Catherine, is told by her guardian uncle that he has spent her dowry left to her by her parents and she must wed the icy-cold Charles, Earl of Calbeck. The reader quickly realizes that Catherine has a rather violent (almost child-like) temper, and that the seemingly frigid earl is strongly attracted to her fire (which matches her red hair). Beyond an initial argument, the two seem to get along pretty well; Charles showers her in presents and treats her like a queen (there is a HOOOT scene where they're both dressed for a dinner party and her blue silk dress gets him going so quickly that they do it on a chair in her bedroom). Gradually, Catherine starts to fall for Charles, but there is the beginnings of a suspenseful sub-plot involving a maniacal murderer running around the neighborhood. Charles goes away on business for a couple of days and right before he returns Catherine realizes she is pregnant and while she is happy, her joy is over-shadowed by the fear that their child will end up like her, alone in the world with only a distant relative to take care of it (her parents both died when she was young). Charles comes home, looking forward to seeing her after being away and finds her crying; when he asks what the matter is, she tells him she's pregnant and he assumes from her tears that she isn't happy about it and doesn't want to carry his child. She is able to convince him otherwise, and he is also able to calm her fears by promising that they will make plans in the off chance that something happens to both of them. Meantime, the suspense picks up, the murderer comes after Catherine, and as she is in danger, they both realize their love for one another when Charles saves her life. This book has some of the best scenes in it, both steamy sex scenes and just purely romantic scenes. The only thing that puts me off it a little is the subplot with the maniacal killer; if you have ever read Julie Garwood's "Castles," the sub-plot is very similar to that. But over all it's a great story.

If you have very rigid expectations of what historical romance novel should be, you may not warm to A Perilous Attraction as much as I did. But if you're looking for something slightly different, this book delivers! The author introduces two strong, likeable characters and gives them a compelling reason to join forces. The gothic atmosphere is very well done and the writing first class. I'm looking forward to this author's next offering!

Ms. Rowell creates that vintage gothic feel but without the naive heroine and the crazy wife in the attic of decades past. In fact, her heroine is wonderfully intelligent, the kind of woman I'd like for a friend, and her hero is deep and intuitive while still remaining completely masculine. This book subltely evokes emotions that the reader can relate to in his/her own relationships. A reader who appreciates excellent writing will find a true treasure in this book.The book is not for the reader who prefers mindless cardboard characters and simplestic stories with no depth, but for the reader who enjoys stories that explore the complexities of the human psyche and celebrate the love that grows between a man and a woman.

When her uncle squanders her inheritance, Catherine Maury must either give up her work of helping London's orphans to live a life of destitution or she must marry the enigmatic Earl of Caldbeck. When she refuses to see him, Charles breaks the latch on her bedroom door to gain her audience and offer his proposal. He offers Catherine financial support and the means to continue to work with the orphans. In return, he admits to his desire for her beauty, her energy and her elegance. Indeed, he admires her ability to express her passions in contrast to his always calm and cool demeanor.Charles' arrogant exterior with his carefully restrained responses makes Catherine want to break through the surface, at one exasperating her and challenging her. Fortunately, his teasing banter lightens the tone, although Catherine initially is uncertain if she should take his remarks seriously. But just when all seems to be perfect as they settle into marriage together, a dangerous man watches. His evil intent upon destruction haunts the women of the area, and soon it becomes obvious he intends Catherine to be next victim.Author Patricia Frances Rowell pens an intriguing historical romance in A PERILOUS ATTRACTION. The sharp contrast in characterizations makes for delightful reading as Catherine's impulsive, emotional nature provokes reactions in her new husband. Rather than the typical exasperated response, however, Charles admires Catherine's temper and joy in living, seeking her out for the emotional reactions he finds impossible to express. The result is a tender romance tempered by humor as their natures clash. Remarkably, Rowell never falls into the predictable plot devices such contrasting personalities suggest, thereby lending the novel an unexpected freshness and strength. Further, as the ominous foreboding of danger lurking ever closer, readers will find it impossible to put down this terrific read. Very highly recommended.