Sophia MacFarlane accepts her father failings and can't stay mad at him. Before her mother died, they gave her an unusual upbringing, enjoying a vagabond life traveling through Europe like gypsies. Since her mother's death, Sophia and her father have settled down in one place. Intending to improve their finances in a card game, her father instead loses their house. Determined not to give up her home, Sophia plots to make the property so unappealing that the new owner will throw his hands up in horror.

Lord Dougal MacLean journeys to his new property after a slight delay with a willing widow. Despite the numerous holdings he owns, Dougal is excited about his newest acquisition. It will be a perfect gift for his nephew. Upon arriving, Dougal overhears an imaginative scheme by the lady of the house. She intends to make the house extremely uncomfortable with smoky fireplaces, inedible food and broken furniture. It will be difficult to handle, since Dougal enjoys his luxuries, but he can tough it out in order to outfox her.

Sophia's quick mind and originality appeal to Dougal. He loves a challenge -- and she presents a delightful one. Sophia takes his dare and risks her virtue on a card game to regain her home. A battle of wits ensues between two dynamic personalities.

Ms. Hawkins' newest historical romance is a funny, lighthearted battle between two strong-willed characters who love a challenge. The antics and banter will keep readers laughing into the night. You can always count on this author to consistently write a good solid story.

Book Summary

In this sizzling romantic adventure, a daring Highland lass plays a high-stakes game to keep the home she loves...but ends up losing her heart instead.

When her father gambles away the family estate to darkly dangerous Lord Dougal MacLean, Sophia MacFarlane is determined to use her wiles to regain it. Forced to stake the one thing she has left -- her virtue -- she desperately hopes her skill can limit her losses to a few kisses...no matter how hotly tempting Dougal turns out to be.

Dougal MacLean knows that Sophia has some trick up her sleeve, but he can't resist the challenge -- or her ravishing beauty. So when she proposes a card game with most unusual stakes, Dougal is delighted to accept. But as the game ends, Dougal and Sophia discover they've wagered something even more precious -- their hearts.