The Greek Tycoon's Mistress (the Greek Tycoons)

One of this author's best. Moves along nicely and the end is believable - the hero makes a logical conclusion that has to be cleared up.

The Greek Tycoon's Mistress by Julia James Harlequin Presents # 2328 - June 2003 The Greek Tycoons themed series Leandra is very loyal to her friends. When her friends Chris and Demos ask her to pose as Demos' lover to discourage his family from pressuring him into an arranged marriage, she agrees. All she's to do is live in Demos' apartment and pretend to be an airhead mistress for the duration of Demos' cousins visit in England. One look at Leandra all dolled up in a revealing gown, diamonds (on loan from Demos) and layers of makeup, and Theo figures he knows her tune. He's certain that Demos would never marry this woman, but he can certainly see her charms and that Demos would be in no hurry to part ways with her. And Leandra plays her part well, clinging to Demos and making her affections most obvious. Their ailing Greek grandfather, Milo, is anxious for an heir to the family name, and he knows that Theo has vowed never to marry so his hopes are on Demos and a beautiful Greek girl waiting patiently for him. Not happy to wait for Theo to deal with Leandra, Milo has her kidnapped and left on Theo's' private island where Milo leaves it up to Theo to pay her off. Theo is furious with his grandfather and realizes how atrocious this treatment of Leandra is, even if she is a money grabbing tart. When Leandra refuses to be bought off, Theo decides to seduce her away from his cousin. He's confused by the airhead he believed her to be and the intelligent and passionate woman she quickly becomes. Awesome! This is Ms. James debut and what a wonderful story. Theo allows bitterness from his past to cloud his judgment and he finds it hard to believe Leandra is, as she appears, a woman of great integrity and loyalty. Leandra is a strong heroine who stands up to Theo much to his surprise. Her loyalty to Demos in keeping up the pretense, keeps their relationship based on lies. This is an intensely passionate, and powerfully emotional story. Ms. James writes a very satisfying scene at the end of the book that makes us cheer heartily for Leandra and feel deep satisfaction. Well done! :D

All I can say is simply wonderful. A very charming, witty, and delightlyfully funny romance. Theo and Leandra make the perfect pair. Theo's arrogance, beauty, and paranoia drove Leandra up the wall!. Meanwhile Leandra's incredible temper and wit only made Theo desire her even more. Read this book for yourself and you'll find out how wonderful it is. A true romantic fiasco. :}

Breezy romance about an unlikely triangle. Not everyone is, as the other predicts. But the romantic aspects of this story, mixed with the exchanges and plots of the character make this a wonderful quick read!