THE OFFICER'S TEMPTATION by Marguerite Kaye invites us to the ball hosted by the Duke and Duchess of Brockmore in their country residence in June 1817. London was so smelly in summer that the wealthy preferred country houses, entertaining themselves by inviting guests to stay. Colonel Fergus Kennedy is present, somewhat reluctantly. Wellington has offered him a valued diplomatic post in Cairo, but to be respectable overseas he must wed suitably first. A young lady in need of a match will be waiting for him at the ball. Courtesy introduction over, he meets someone far more interesting. She's an acrobat, juggler and entertainer. Katerina of the Flying Vengarovs, in fact.

I always admire Marguerite Kaye for her production of unusual heroines and this time she has outdone herself. Indecently dressed by comparison, astonishingly flexible and daring, Katerina brought a smile to my lips right away. Like Fergus she is well travelled and used to hardships. But she's completely unsuitable for a diplomat's wife.

THE DEBUTANTE'S AWAKENING by Bronwyn Scott sets Miss Zara Titus at the same party, embarrassingly without the viscount fiancé who has just broken their match. How shabby to be back on the marriage mart. If she is to restore her reputation she must secure an offer from someone of even higher stature. Kael Gage doesn't fit that bill, a mere country squire, but on the other hand he doesn't care a fig for rumours. With picnics, boating, horse racing and other delightful pursuits, all the guests enjoy the week of the house party. The evenings are filled with music recitals, acrobatic entertainments and candlelit dinners. Zara is tired of formality though, and wants excitement - something like swimming unclothed with a man, however scandalous that would be.

Two adult romances from two great authors await and I highly recommend SCANDAL AT THE MIDSUMMER'S BALL. With a varied and lively cast and plenty of entertainment it's ideal for those who can't choose between the maze and the pinery for a rendezvous!

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