Nothing ever happens in Little Marching, Oxfordshire in
1819 and that is just fine with Penelope Trask. Already
labeled a double-jilter after two failed betrothals,
Penelope just wants a quiet existence without marriage, so
she could spend her time collecting fairy tales and
enjoying her friendship with Meagan and her witty
commentaries on life.
While on her way to the village to buy ribbons, she
suddenly finds herself swept off her feet and being kissed
by a sexy blue-eyed stranger. Despite never having seen
this handsome dark-haired man before, she is totally
charmed as he declares his instant love for her.
Enraptured by his masculine smell and delightful kisses,
her staid and proper ways melt away in the sunshine until a
man calling him, "Your Highness", interrupts them.
Claiming to be Prince Damien Augustus Frederic Michel of
Nvengaria, a ruggedly beautiful, but small, country near
the western border of Moldova, Damien first seeks
Penelope's mother, Lady Simone, then Penelope's hand, in
marriage to fulfil an ancient pledge that would bring
prosperity to his country. Neither Michael Tavistock,
Simone's lover and Meagan's father, or Penelope herself are
entirely sure about him, but she knows she can't resist his
kisses, even if she balks at marriage.
Yet, if Damien can't woo the independent minded Penelope
quickly and get her to Nvengaria before Midsummer's Day,
not only will the 800-year-old pledge not be kept but he
will lose his life as well. Added into the chaos caused by
his entourage and the upsetting turn of events, Penelope's
and Damien's early dance at romance is imperiled by
assassin attempts, shape-shifters, and other magical spells
from the Prince's lifetime enemy, Alexander Octavien
Laurent Maximilien, the Grand Duke and current ruler of
Nvengaria. Who will win this battle to rule? Can Damien's
quest for love be successful in time?
Jennifer Ashley has crafted a hot and spicy romance
complete with magical and paranormal twists. While slow
and frustrating in parts, the characters are fascinating,
with delightfully human quirks and witty repartee to
enchant you. Even the villain will tug at your
heartstrings! This is the first in a three book series,
so not only can you enjoy this book, but you'll hunger to
start into the next one, The Mad Bad Duke.
Handsome Prince Damien of Nvengaria sweeps into the
village of Little Marching, where nothing exciting ever
happens, and announces that plain Penelope Trask is the
long-lost princess who can save his kingdom, but only if
she marries him.