Hearts Beguiled

Since I loved PW's later novels, I searched for this book, and I'm glad that I did. It was a well written story with so much more depth than today's run of the mill romance novels. Gabrielle's struggle to keep her son safe was riveting, and when Max finally saves her , I nearly swooned.

to such a well written novel. I cannot find the words to express how beautifully this story unfolded on paper. It was so enjoyable from start to finish. You were enraptured by the love between Gabrielle and Max and you were captured by the endearing supporting cast. Ms. Williamson had just the right blend of weaving a love story into such an interesting period in French history. The intimacy between the two main characters was far greater than anything I've ever read by her before. Usually, she tends to introduce a love scene and then leave things to the imagination. Not so in this book. The intimacy was constant and such a great part of the unveiling of their love and the glue to their relationship. I would highly recommend finding this one and holding on to it.

I went searching for Penelope's first 2 books, Beloved Rogue and this (at least they appear to be her first). Beloved Rogue was so-so (not a huge surprise considering I was comparing to her later stories) but I was amazed at the quantum leap her skill took from Rogue to Hearts Bequiled. Don't hesitate to pay a few extra dollars for this harder-to-find book, particularly if you have enjoyed PW's other stories. It never ceases to amaze me how one author can wring so much more depth & detail & emotion from the typical 350 pgs of a historical romance than do other authors. Penelope fills every page with something you can sink your teeth...and your heart...into.Well-written, extremely engaging storyline (*yawn* and another 3AM bedtime), very likeable h\h and absolutely adorable supporting characters. This is just a wonderful love story and, as another reader mentioned, the uniqueness of pre-revolutionary France just adds to the enjoyment. I really did not want this story to end. Classic Penelope; believable, flawed but totally lovable, charming, memorable characters with integrity AND sex appeal.

There was magic the moment they met...She was a flame-haired beauty fleeing from those who would kidnap her young son, the duke's only heir. He was a brillant scientist-handsome, dynamic...and completely reckless in the presence of the spirited, independent young widow whose flashing eyes set his blood on fire. His searing kisses left her shaken, yet helpless to deny him-or her own desire. But both were concealing dark and dangerous secrets-secrets that hinted at lies and betrayal...and threatened to destroy even the idyllic love that had bind them forever.