Diane Gaston puts in a new spin on the classic "Beauty and
the Beast" tale in A MARRIAGE OF NOTORIETY.
Phillipa Westleigh is convinced no man will ever want her
for a wife, because she has a childhood scar on her cheek.
The boy who befriended her after her accident wants to be
more than friends now, but Phillipa is sure Xavier Campion's
attentions are just a kindness, not true affection.
Xavier loves Phillipa, and he relishes the chance to give
her an adventure, a freedom that she has never known. Each
night, he escorts her to the Masquerade Club, a gambling den
where she can wear a mask that hides her scar and her
identity.
When their game is discovered, they both have to look beyond
appearances and decide whether to risk A MARRIAGE OF
NOTORIETY or a life without each other.
This novel is a delight. It has a strong love story, of
course, but also a bit of mystery, as Phillipa tries to
unravel the truth about her accident. Xavier is just back
from military service, and a subplot explores the plight of
many veterans at that time. It's part of the Masquerade Club
series, but I have not read the previous books.
Readers who enjoy Regency romances and daring heroines
should add A MARRIAGE OF NOTORIETY and Diane Gaston to their
list of must-read books and authors.
The scars she keeps hidden¦ The mysterious pianiste is the
Masquerade Club's newest attraction, captivating guests with
her haunting music. What is the true identity of the lady
concealed beneath the mask? Only Xavier Campion, the club's
new proprietor, recognizes Phillipa Westleigh, the lady with
whom he once shared a dance. Concerned for her safety,
Xavier escorts her home each night. But when their moonlit
strolls are uncovered, the only protection Xavier can offer
is marriage! The Masquerade Club Identities concealed,
desires revealed¦