Sean Delaney has made his way into the world with the help of an inheritance and his own quick thinking. Even though he was born in Ireland, Sean is settled in London and has made quite a bit of money buying and selling properties. But his sister Deirdre has not had it so easy. Her marriage of ten years to the reclusive painter, John Hamilton has ended in disgrace. They had only married because Deidre ended up pregnant. Sean wants her to get a divorce seeing as Deidre is ready to move in with her lover. But before he can make Deirdre see reason, John comes to Sean. He wants Sean to impersonate him to his dying uncle. John doesn't care for his uncle and will divorce Deidre if Sean does this for him. Because Sean only cares for his sister's happiness he takes part in this scheme.

Corinna Chase's one goal in life is to be a renowned painter. When she meets Sean, she believes he is John. But soon after, Sean tells her who he really is and even though he has undergone this charade, Corinna will keep his secret. She thinks that Sean may help her with her painting and possible be welcomed into the Royal Academy's Summer Exhibition. But as Sean continues with his false identity with John's uncle who is not as horrible as Sean was lead to believe, all of London is beginning to believe that Sean is really John. Corinna doesn't care who Sean is and simply wishes to practice some kissing with Sean. And if he wants to model for her also, that will be all the better. Soon Sean has way too much to deal with that includes falling in love with Corinna, pretending his sister is his wife and making sure he is not found out.

THE ART OF TEMPTATION is a funny and light read with a wonderful hero and a heroine who are both witty and very original. Lauren Royal has incredible skill at writing historical romance and this latest story proves this in every way. It was delightful to read about Sean and Corinna's interactions and conversations. Plus Corinna's hobby of painting was very educational and enjoyable. Even though these two are in society and must act a certain way, they are very into free thinking and do what they like and for that alone, it was very refreshing. Overall, THE ART OF TEMPTATION is a wonderful romance that includes many secondary characters from past books that make an appearance to enhance the plot and the relationship between the Irishman and his growing love for his special lady painter. For some light reading with some comedic moments, THE ART OF TEMPTATION is the way to go.