David, Earl of Wyvern, needs a moneyed wife, but Lucy and her father rejected his anonymous offer. He plans to woo her and wed her, to get his hands on her large dowry. He quickly realizes she's too smart to be a secret smuggler's wife, but his heart won't let her go.

Jo Beverley is an amazing writer, and A SHOCKING DELIGHT is a treat for regular readers and those just discovering her. Beverley's characters are always realistically drawn, and her descriptions immerse you in the world of the Regency.

In A SHOCKING DELIGHT, she brings out the differences between the merchant class and the nobility; even the sections of London they live in are vastly different. Lucy and David also have heated discussions about the freetrade -- smuggling -- and whether it's bad or good for the country. These details make the story and the world more real and relevant. Don't think the historical facts get in the way of the love story; Lucy and David are drawn to each other from their first meeting and the sparks fly every time they're together.

A SHOCKING DELIGHT is part of Jo Beverley's Company of Rogues series. This book stands alone, but those familiar with the previous books will enjoy seeing those characters again. I recommend A SHOCKING DELIGHT for fans of historical romances that feature strong and intelligent heroes and heroines.

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