LOVE IN THE TIME OF SCANDAL is Book three in Caroline Linden's Scandals (50 Ways to Sin) series. From the beginning, Penelope Weston appears to be an interesting and likable character. However, she immediately gets herself into a situation worthy of Jane Austen's Emma. Happily, Penelope is a more sympathetic version of Emma Woodhouse. Her loyalty to a friend and her unwavering belief in a romantic ideal leads her to find love when least expected.

In the early part of LOVE IN THE TIME OF SCANDAL, Penelope and Benedict have a somewhat antagonistic relationship. I like that the story is told from both points of view so that the reader is able to see what's behind the animosity.

Caroline Linden does a good job of explaining how, no matter what she tells herself, a lot of Penelope's abrasiveness to Benedict is just her way of protecting herself. She tries to push him away because, deep down, she originally liked him more than she always believed that he liked her. She harbors a little hurt that he originally courted her sister rather than her. It's satisfying when Penelope finally discovers just what a good man Benedict really is and how much he suffered in his past. With Penelope and Benedict, Caroline Linden has created two complex and textured characters.

At first, I was worried that the hero and heroine would be snapping at each other for the majority of the book, or that a misunderstanding would overshadow the relationship. I am pleased to say that neither thing proves to be true. Benedict and Penelope have a wonderful chemistry and the passion between them is incredibly intense. The drama created by Benedict's unfeeling and austere father, the mystery surrounding Penelope's friend, and the mischief caused by a true villain all add excitement to LOVE IN THE TIME OF SCANDAL without obscuring the romance.

LOVE IN THE TIME OF SCANDAL is a red-hot romance with shades of Jane Austen and Shakespeare. The characters are well-developed and the romance is beautifully crafted. LOVE IN THE TIME OF SCANDAL is a must-read for romance fans. I can't wait for the next book!