The Secret Life of Lady Julia by By Lecia Cornwall

(Avon | On Sale: 5/28/2013| ISBN: 9780062202451 | $7.99 | e-ISBN: 9780062202468 | $7.99)

Let me introduce you to Lady Julia Leighton: international woman of mystery and
the subject of historical romance star Lecia Cornwall's newest novel.
Intelligent, charming, and stunningly beautiful, Julia Leighton is a woman
cloaked in feminine mystique—and scandal!She's been engaged to a Duke,
loved by jewel thief, tutored by an infamous diplomat (her very own
grandmother, no less!). Most notably, our Miss Leighton has turned her delicate
hand to spy craft. But in the art of love, Julia is untutored—save for by
one man, the redoubtable Thomas Merritt.

Lecia Cornwall's latest love story takes readers on a fascinating voyage
through Regency–era Europe, from merry old England, by way of
war–torn Paris, and into Austria. In this vividly depicted political
minefield, Lady Julia—scandalized, disowned by her family—finds her
calling dabbling in espionage trying to steer the multi–national Austrian
peace conference to a favorable resolution.

Beyond painting an engrossing picture, the narrative is richly detailed, and her heroine is unique.The Secret Life of Lady Julia is another testimonial to Cornwall's flare for creating whatPublisher's Weekly calls a "...luscious Regency romance [that] has just the right blend of mystery, manners, and passion."

Julia is fiery yet well–mannered and charming (as a proper English miss
should be), and a perfect foil for the idealistic and dashing Thomas Merritt, a
nobleman ("noble" in the truest sense of the word!) turned reluctant jewel
thief. These two star–crossed lovers have individually riveting tales of
action and adventure that Cornwall weaves together seamlessly into a poignant
tale of love and second chances at happily–ever–after.

Lady Julia Leighton:

International Woman of Mystery

About the Book:

Lady Julia Leighton—an unrivaled beauty of the ton—spends almost
the entirety of her betrothal ball being politely ignored by her erstwhile
fiancé (dubbed "Dull Duke David"). The evening is saved by the appearance of a
handsome stranger with eyes only for her, and the heady mixture of champagne
and experimental kisses leads to a seduction born of a desire to feel something
extraordinary.

This stranger is not what he seems, however, and he comes away from the
Leighton ball having stolen the bride–to–be's virtue—and her
love—where he meant only to take her diamond encrusted tiara. Disowned by
his brother for rakish behavior, Thomas makes his way in the world by seducing
rich women and stealing their jewels, but for the first time, he's the victim
of theft as it becomes evident that Julia has stolen his heart. He leaves for
Paris the day the Napoleonic wars officially end, both to find richer pastures
and to try and forget Julia. When their paths cross again at a peace
conference, they are both in very different circumstances. Julia, now an
unofficial spy in the British delegation, is unintentionally collecting the
hearts of her countrymen—all the while keeping the object of her
affections a well–guarded secret. But when a twist of fate brings these
two former lovers together, will the past threaten to overtake their rekindled
affection?

About the Author:

Lecia Cornwall is a PRO member of the Romance Writers of America's Seattle and
Calgary Chapters. Her background includes all facets of writing, including
running a successful freelance writing business specializing in direct
marketing and advertising. Both history and writing have been lifelong
passions. Lecia currently lives and writes in Calgary, Alberta, the heart of
the Canadian West