A Touch of Scandal

Back cover:A DISHONORED GENTLEMAN. Once a brilliant government figure, Viscount Gideon Carne had fled England amid scandal and betrayal. Determined to rebuild his life, he returned at last to find his once-successful firm suspiciously on the verge of ruin. An alliance with Fiona Alastair -- the very lady he'd wounded most grievously years before -- was his only hope. The ever-gracious Fiona agreed to be of help on one condition: that the end of their enterprise bring an end to their relationship. But this promise proved more easily made than kept, for Gideon soon found himself ensnared by the lady's enchanting beauty...and devilishly tempted to put honor aside in favor of passion!A SCANDALOUS LADY. Only a fool would lose her heart twice to a rake like Gideon Carne. Already disgraced once at the hands of the handsome lord, Fiona had no intention of repeating her mistake. But as she and Gideon began their dangerous investigation into his business affairs, there was no denying the feelings that once again flared between them. And as she gazed into Gideon's demanding dark eyes, Fiona realized with a start that even the best of intentions could lead to the most shocking of conclusions!This is the first book of an exciting series of interrelated books, followed by "An Improper Proposal" and "A Sensible Match." The blurb from the back does not do it justice--the plot development is excellent and follows smoothly and logically. Character development is also rich, complex and believeable. No "too stupid to live" characters here! The plot twists are intricate and exciting, and each character is vibrant and unique. I especially loved Fiona's character, as a level-headed young woman rather than a flighty or reckless chit with few brains.The characters introduced here go on to star in their own romances, which are both equally as engrossing a read. I would highly recommend this book to any Regency lover--it was one of my first Regencies and still remains a very memorable favorite.

There are a handful of books that I read again and again, when I want something I know will please. This is one of them. The characters are well drawn, including the lesser ones, and the hero and heroine are both attractive and human. At least part of their problems are caused by their own foibles. The plot is believable and complex enough to keep me interested in the 20th reading, without being too convoluted or contrived. And -- without being saccharin -- the resolution will warm the heart of any reader who likes to see wrongs righted, the dispossessed restored, and the good triumph.