I have previously read a couple of Emma Holly's books in the Black Lace series, and enjoyed them immensely but for me this is her best book to date. Although it is as sexy and sizzling as you would expect from this author, it is not as explicit as her Black Lace books, and concentrates more on exploring the romance between the characters and their emotions.
The story focuses on two brothers intent on preventing a family scandal, and a young, innocent girl fresh from the countryside who is simply looking for marriage and some measure of security for her future. Unwittingly she provides the perfect solution to their problems but needless to say, all does not go to plan when she is attracted to the wrong brother, and he finds himself equally entranced by her. The passion that is unleashed between them threatens to unravel all their lives.
The elder brother, Edward, is austere, autocratic and arrogant - the perfect Victorian hero, while his younger brother Freddie is frivolous and amusing, the darling of society. Florence is pure, innocent and beautiful, with the disarming ability to inspire love in all who know her. Their are some amusing and touching scenes where, much to her great embarrassment, her sweet nature is highlighted by the unwanted devotion she sparks in cats and children.
As the story moves from London to their country estate, an epic struggle follows as Florence tries to contain her burgeoning sexuality, and Edward strives to control the lust and love she inspires in him.
The story is both romantic and sensual, and the main characters are very likeable. I fell totally in love with both Edward and Freddie, and I felt great symapthy for Florence's plight. Added to this, Emma Holly has created a whole host of interesting and entertaining characters to support the main personalities in the book and keep the story moving at a good pace so that it retained my interest right through to the end. This is a book I have and will continue to read again and again.
