Sebastian Deville, the illegitimate son of a duke, has learned to be quite blasΓ© as he ignores taunts and jeers from aristocratic lords around him. Instead, he concentrates on relieving them of their money and disgracing their sisters. It's a game he plays -- and very well. Then his father changes the dynamics by dangling respectability and power before Sebastian. The king will hold a tournament among the aristocrats' natural and latter born sons. The winner will receive a title, property, power and a bride. The unworthy will become worthy and their eagerness to receive respect from their indifferent fathers infuses their dreams. Without a second thought, Sebastian leaves for the Cheevers estate determined to win, regardless of the cost.
Mrs. Caroline Martin counsels her cousin, Sarah, after discovering that Sarah's father has negotiated with the king for her to be the bride prize at a tournament. Caroline loves Sarah and will do anything to protect her shy cousin. After her short-lived disastrous marriage to a wastrel, Caroline perceives the pain awaiting Sarah if she marries one of the disreputable rogues participating in the event. When Caroline meets Sebastian, she knows her fears are warranted. He's a charismatic rogue who draws Caroline to him with just a whisper of dangerous passion. The type of man Caroline cannot seem to resist.
Sebastian battles the spell Caroline casts over him. Never before has he been unnerved by a woman like Caroline. She sees vulnerability and instead of exploiting him, she prods him to be a better man. However, Sebastian refuses the peace she provides and charges toward the quest of a lifetime.
Ms. Mallory explores the emotional turmoil between the wealthy elite that have power and those who have none. She underscores their deep longings and bruised spirits as they struggle against the unchangeable unfairness of their lives. As the tournament progresses she reveals the contestants' despair as they fail in their quest. Against this backdrop, she develops a love story of kindred spirits searching for peace and a lasting love.
Winner take all . . .
Sebastien Deville, the debauched, dangerously handsome illegitimate son of the Duke of Grandien, has waited his whole life for revengeβ and suddenly it is there for the taking. A competition sponsored by the ing has all the ton talking. The winner will receive an immense fortune, a newly created title, sponsorship, and a well-born brideβeverything Sebastien needs to reclaim his mother's stolen lands and to wield the colossal power itching beneath his fingertips. His victory is all but assured . . . until he meets Caroline.
Caroline Martin knows all about Sebastien, the legendary heartbreaker who leaves women weeping in his wake, and she is determined not to see him win the competition in which he would claim her friend as his bride. Yet sabotage is so very hard to concentrate on when the target's searing glances promise incredible pleasure and his skillful hands vow unimaginable desire. She knows the danger he presents, the temptation he offers, yet she is willing to risk everything for all she holds dear.
But Sebastien Deville will do anything to win . . . and Caroline's heart may become the ultimate prize.
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