Since working as a companion/slave to the tyrant Lady Lettice, Emma Chegwidden has lost her self-respect. She quivers at Lady Lettice's threats of dismissal when Emma's task proves unsatisfactory. Emma cannot conceive her future tossed out in a foreign country with no money. This is the state of her dismal life, until the mysterious masked Reaper lands in her bedroom. He is evading the prince's men who are searching for him. Emma has heard of the Reaper who rides through the countryside proclaiming the true king will return and overthrow the cruel prince. After helping the Reaper, Emma becomes involved in the political intrigue. One small act begets other acts, until Emma is in the middle of a dangerous plot. The timid mouse transforms into an Amazon.

Michael Durant, heir to the Duke of Nevitt, has resided in the prince's dungeon for two years. Unable to obtain the information he wants, Prince Sandre places him under house arrest using him as bait to capture the rebels. Once Michael loved adventure and women, but torture and imprisonment have changed him into a man seeking revenge. Who would have believed that a poor downtrodden lady's companion would alter his course? Michael sees an intelligent caring woman who holds the promise of healing his troubled soul.

Emma seeks warmth and safety in Michael's arms, but she is on a perilous path. Passion and love cloud her judgment and her mistake places Michael in mortal danger.

To the joy of historical romance readers, Ms. Dodd returns to deliver an excellent tale. Her superior storytelling excels in her new series. The excitement and suspense mount as characters overcome their personal fears and perform unimaginable courageous acts. Their honor and bravery prevail over revenge as they seek justice. It is a winning combination of passionate romance and adventure. I hope Ms. Dodd continues writing her other genres, especially romantic suspense, my favorite.