A WICKED BARGAIN...
Handsome, ambitious, and newly wealthy, Maccus Brawley has severed ties with his dangerous past and is close to securing his place in polite society. All he requires is some guidance in fashionable manners-and who better to instruct him than a young lady with breeding, brains, wealth...and a scandalous reputation? Lady Fayre Carlisle needs his help as much as he needs hers, but their scheme soon gives way to unbridled bliss. And although Maccus is known for his daring, dallying with the fiery, vulnerable beauty might be his riskiest venture yet.

LEADS TO A WILD DESIRE
With one false step, Fayre lost both her honor and her heart, thanks to her father†s scheming ex-mistress. Others might retreat in shame from the ton's gossipmongers, but Fayre is determined to pay back those who humiliated her, and Maccus Brawley is proving to be an unexpected and seductive ally. With all that Fayre has learned about temptation, how can she risk her heart a second time? Yet with every illicit encounter reaching new heights of passion, how can she resist?

At the beginning of this book, I saw dread on the horizon as it seemed like I would be spending precious time reading about another helpless waif that has gotten herself into trouble and will depend on everyone else to get her out of it. As I read on, I was sufficiently surprised as Fayre's character was the opposite of what I had expected. While the plot itself was not exceedingly strong or unique, Ms. Pierce made up for any lack thereof by creating entertaining and witty characters in Fayre and Maccus. Both characters are well-matched, which made for a fun read as the two banter throughout the story.

The sex scenes, while not overly adventurous, seemed more real to me than any I have read in quite some time. I can't put my finger on exactly why, but the scenes seemed honest and authentic. They didn't feel contrived and will leave you with that "Hey, I've done that" feeling, which allows you to connect with the characters and the circumstances.

The bits of sincerity between Maccus and Fayre, as well as the humor interspersed through the book (especially the ending) rounded out the book and strengthened an otherwise unremarkable story.

Should you read the book? You bet. It's a cute story and a fun read.

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Publisher: St. Martin's Paperbacks (June 27, 2006)
ISBN: 0312348215
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