Wed by proxy at the tender age of 12, Lady Isidore has
waited patiently for 11 long years for her husband, the
Duke of Cosway, to return to England. She has not waited
patiently at her strict mother-in-law's side; instead,
she's enjoyed society life and gained vast knowledge and
experience as she maintained her vast dowry estates. While
attending a risqué party with her friends, Isidore's absent
husband arrives straight from the wilds of Africa. He
shocks her with the admission that he's a virgin and he
will not consummate the marriage until he's convinced she's
suitable. Isidore burns with fury. Wars have been started
with less provocation.
Simeon Jermyn, the Duke of Cosway, grew up in a chaotic
household, which he fled the first chance he got. Simeon
left to become a world traveler and explorer of cultures
and religions. In Eastern teachings, he learns control over
violent emotions, such as lust and anger. Simeon would be
content to stay away from England, but duty calls him home
where he finds disaster waiting. His late father lost his
mind toward the end and left the estate wallowing in
disrepair. His mother is a disagreeable harpy, and his wife
is not a docile woman awaiting direction from her husband.
Isidore evokes the strong emotions Simeon so detests. The
battle lines are drawn between the firebrand and the man
who survived warring tribesmen. Soon Simeon discovers
running from lions and crocodiles is an easier feat.
Ms. James is a superb writer and storyteller. She infuses
her stories with in-depth characters and strong plots in
the glittering and rich Georgian world. Her incorporation
of Georgian sewers and indoor plumbing into the plot is
hysterical and fascinating. Once again, Ms. James delivers
a delicious treat to her readers.
The Duchess of Cosway yearns for a man she has never
met . . . her husband.
Married by proxy as a child,
Lady Isidore has spent years fending off lecherous men in
every European court while waiting to meet her husband.
She's determined to accept him, no matter how unattractive
the duke turns out to be. When she finally lures Simeon
Jermyn back to London, his dark handsomeness puts
Isidore's worst fears to rest—until disaster strikes.
The duke demands an annulment.
Forsaking his
adventuresome past, Simeon has returned to London ready to
embrace the life of a proper duke, only to find that his
supposed wife is too ravishing, too headstrong, and too
sensual to be the docile duchess he has in mind. But
Isidore will not give up her claim to the title—or him—
without a fight.
She will do whatever it takes to
capture Simeon's heart, even if it means sacrificing her
virtue. After all, a consummated marriage cannot be
annulled.
Yet in forcing Simeon into a delicious
surrender, will Isidore risk not only her dignity—but her
heart?
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