Kiss Me Again

In 1819 Brixton Smythe-Medway informs his friends that he will not marry until he is fifty and will never wed Fanny Epping, who is an "annoying shadow". To his chagrin Fanny overhears that the men placed a bet on her and that her beloved Brixton thinks she is too bland. Irate, Fanny confronts Brixton calling him a coward and bets him that she will break his heart in six weeks. Instead of the customary handshake that sanctions a wager, Fanny passionately kisses a stunned Brixton.Over the next few weeks Fanny mounts a campaign to win her bet though deep in her heart she really wants Brixton's love. Brixton soon finds he misses Fanny when she fails to shadow him and wants her when she assaults his senses. Near the end of the six weeks, Brixton flees London as he now fears Fanny is winning, but will he come to his senses and realize that he has loved her since he kissed her in his mom's garden when they were twelve or will he remain in denial.Regency romance readers will appreciate the wager between the lead duet though why Brixton shows no remorse for hurting Fanny will disturb readers. His behavior results in fans and even Brixton's friends wanting Fanny to kick his butt and win the bet. Booklovers will enjoy this tale of a woman scorned and look forward to other novels starring Brixton's betting alumni especially one individual who realizes how beautiful and fine a person Fanny truly is.Harriet Klausner

Margaret Moore, starting in Harlequin Historicals, gave strongly, plotted stories with engaging characters, and with each book her strength in her craft grows. In this sequel to "Kiss Me Quick" (March 2003), we see many of the same characters back. Set in early 1800's London - Lady Francessa Epping had been in love with the Honourable Brixton Smythe-Medway since they were children. He's remained resistant, not wanting to lose his freedom - and not in a polite way. He has wagered he would never marry before age 50, and he would never ever consider marrying Fanny because she is too quiet and sweet - BORING and BLAND. Fanny cannot help but hear of his wager; the scandal is circulating through the Ton. But instead of being hurt, she kisses him before everyone, and declares she can break his heart within six week. Fanny keeps telling herself that she is only doing this for revenge. Both their families are NOT happy by this public battle of wills. Fanny is forced to leave her brother's home because of it. Brix must face his face over the disgrace, and later, he is challenged to a duel by Fanny's brother for the insult to her honour.It is humorous, with sparkling dialogue. Another of Moore's deft works.