All of London knows the Duke of Rutherford has position and wealth. They also whisper that he’s dissolute, devilish, and determinedly unwed. So why, everyone is asking, has he hired a governess?
When Miss Lily Russell crosses the threshold of the Duke of Rutherford’s stylish townhouse, she knows she has come face to face with sensual danger. For this is no doting papa. Rather, his behavior is scandalous, and his reputation rightly earned. And his pursuit of her is nearly irresistible—but resist she must for the sake of her pupil.
As for the duke himself, it was bad enough when his unknown child landed on his doorstep. Now Lily, with her unassuming beauty, has aroused his most wicked fantasies—and, shockingly, his desire to change his wanton ways. He’s determined to become worthy of her, and so he asks for her help in correcting his behavior.
But Lily has a secret, one that, if it becomes known, could change everything . . .onsents to wed a beautiful heiress . . . in return for one night of unparalleled pleasure.
In the fading echoes of hollow wedding vows, a promise is broken -- as a sensuous free-spirit flees to a lush Caribbean paradise, abandoning the handsome stranger she married to the gallows. But Ruark Beauchamp's destiny is now eternally intertwined with his exquisite, tempestuous Shanna's. And no iron ever forged can imprison his magnificent passion . . . and no hangman's noose will deny him the ecstasy that is rightfully his.
Wonderful!
This is my first foray into the brilliance that is Kathleen E. Woodiwiss's writing, even though I've had some of her books on my shelves for years. But when the publisher sent me a copy of Shanna I decided that there's no time like the present, and dove right in. And oh, how glad I am that I did because this isn't just a historical romance, it's an epic love story. There's mystery, romance, passion, sword fights, pirates, kidnapping, murder...start to finish it's one captivating, exciting adventure!
Needless to say - but I'll say it anyway - I'll be reading more of this author's writing, very soon!
My thanks to Avon Books for providing me with a copy of this story. In appreciation I'm giving them an honest review.
I've got several of her books in my TBR pile too - guess I should be pulling them out!
ReplyDeleteOh, I'm itching to get into another Woodiwiss epic. I was truly impressed and kicking myself (mentally) for not reading her sooner. She's the queen of the epic bodiceripper type stories. Thanks for visiting, and sorry it took so long to reply. I wasn't at my computer and my iPad doesn't like my blog.
DeleteI can't believe you didn't get hooked onto these things in the 80's. Jude Devereaux and Kathleen Woodiness were everywhere. I read this literally 30 years ago but I remember that cover! Have fun catching up!!
ReplyDeleteI had been on a Dean Koontz, Stephen King kick for years. It wasn't until TWILIGHT that I got into romance, discovered Goodreads, and was overwhelmed by the recommendations. I think it was that some people warned me away from the bodicerippers because some are more brutal, so I was afraid to read them. Anywho.... I'm afraid no more and looking for recommendations! Thank you for your post!
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