Dedication (Signet Regency Romance) [Mass Market Paperback]

Romance readers looking for a fresh, new voice that's worth taking note of can rejoice, because Janet Mullany's debut novel is definitely something to take notice of. However, a word of warning, esp for readers who prefer to usual Signet Regency romance format -- "Dedication" is much more meatier read. It possesses a few rather graphic love scenes and some rather frank conversations about sex. But if you're willing to accept this more sensual than usual offering from Signet, than you're in for a treat: for "Dedication" is full bodied, fully textured and completely absorbing read.

When Adam Ashworth receives news that that his ward, Viscount Tillotson is keeping his mistress in his London house, Adam immediately makes for London in order to exercise some damage control. What Adam discovers on reaching London is not a scandal the making, but that Tillotson is sitting for an allegorical portrait. True, Tillotson seems quite smitten with the talented but plain artist, Miss Elaine Twyford, but the Miss Twyford doesn't show signs of reciprocating Tillostson's feelings. No, the scandal and awkwardness doesn't lie there but rather in the person of Miss Twyford's duenna and patron, Mrs. Fabienne Argonac Craigmont, and someone that Adam has a past with.

About twenty years ago Fabienne Argonac was a young and innocent emigre when she fell in love with the rakish Adam Ashworth. But their relationship ended badly with both parties blaming the other for the bad and bitter ending. Now, here they are, thrown together again all these years later. Can they put they're past behind them and start again? After all, they are different people now (Adam is a staid grandfather and widower, while Fabienne is a sophisticated patroness of the arts); and yet neither finds that they can forget or forgive the past. But as current affairs push them into each other's lives, Adam discovers how much he still is in love with Fabienne and how much he needs her. Now if only he could get the stubborn woman to admit that she still loves and needs him...

"Dedication" is a fairly complex and textured read, with quite a few subplots and characters. The previous relationship that Adam and Fabienne had and how it ended spawns several subplots that deal with the secrets that Adam and Fabienne have kept since then and that involve quite a few characters in the story. The author's capability and brilliance shines through when you realise that you've read most of the book without once having lost the drift or forgetting who a certain character was and how (s)he fitted into everything. I liked that this story focused on an older couple (one who was a grandfather), and that it was still a very compelling and slightly edgy read. Neither Adam nor Fabienne are ready for rocking chairs and knitting yet! I also rather liked that even though their older, the author doesn't portray them as wiser -- Adam and Fabienne are still impulsive and passionate individuals, still capable of jumping the gun and making mistakes (yes, there are several BIG MISUNDERSTANDINGS) -- fortunately, this time around, they're able to work through everything and achieve their happier-ever-after ending.

All in all this was truly full bodied, multi faceted and very special read, worth touting. I'm really looking forward to future novels by this author

DEDICATION is a fast read, and has an intriguing plot with unique, complex characters. I appreciated the older hero and heroine, along with issues most parents deal with, whether in Regency England or modern times. Ms. Mullany has a way with words that I found enchanting, and her vivid descriptions are beautiful. I highly recommend this book!

Janet Mullany forges new territory with Dedication. Adam and Fabienne are mature, compelling characters with a past. They are passionate people with incredible depth. They have drunk life to the dregs and now are back for more. Sensual (very) and charming, adventurous and suspenseful, I loved every minute of it!