Coral Smythe, the madam of London's infamous brothel Aphrodite's Grotto, has built her business around insuring men sin and pleasure. At a time when women had few options, she found a way to support herself and protect those who work with her. Carol had full control of what did and didn't happen at Aphrodite's until unexpected expenses caused her to take a loan from a man who has turned from silent to controlling partner. Now he's put seven nights with the madam up as a prize in a game of chance and Coral finds that her body is no longer her own.

Captain Wargate visits Aphrodite's to gather his men and insure they return to the ship. He doesn't approve of the vices encourage at Aphrodite's but still finds his passions stirred by the madam in the golden mask. When the prize is announced, Wargate sees behind the mask to the uncertain and possibly scared woman. All an honorable Captain can do is attempt to rescue this woman who may not need his help. Now that he's won, what will they do for seven whole nights?

THE ICE PRINCESS is a companion novella to the books in Elizabeth Hoyt's Princes series. We met Coral in earlier books and now we learn her story... who she is, how she became a madam, and some of her dreams. It's an intriguing story, much of it played out in her bedroom as she honors Wargate's wager. Given the setting, the story isn't as erotic as you might expect but that works. Ms. Hoyt adeptly uses the bedroom setting to create a beautiful emotional intimacy. Though short, THE ICE PRINCESS deeply satisfying story of two people learning to love and hope again.