The Bride Price by Anne Mallory Published by Harper Collins on October 6, 2009
Genres: Fiction / Historical / General, Fiction / Romance / Historical / American, Fiction / Romance / Historical / General, Fiction / Romance / Historical / Regency, Fiction / Romance / Historical / Victorian
Pages: 384
Format: Paperback
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Winner take all . . .
Sebastien Deville, the debauched, dangerously handsome illegitimate son of the Duke of Grandien, has waited his whole life for revenge—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 bride—everything 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.
Oh, my.
This book is on fire.
And like all good fires, its a little slow to heat up. But stick with it, and you will feel the warm flames in no time.
Anne Mallory’s latest release The Bride Price is another example of why she is a rising star of hist-ro. Unique characters, an interesting (and different) plot, and beautiful imagery. When I read Anne Mallory, rather than skimming over descriptive passages (guilty!) I actually sink into the scene. There is something short, sweet and strong about the way she describes surroundings that makes you feel like you are there.
And then there is The Bride Price‘s hero. The devilish bad boy rake who has a sensitive side and really knows how to deliver (dry quips, sultry glances, and female pleasure).
The heroine is also a sassy world-weary matron who knows how to deliver (elbows, mostly).
Although I did have difficulty with the first ten chapters being a little too slow, I stuck with it and was thrilled that I did. The Bride Price is one of those books that surprises you, and promises to be a friendly re-read with further secrets to discover.
Keep it up, Anne Mallory!
