A reluctant Lady Elizabeth enters the social season at the request of her ailing grandfather. Since she's older and wiser than most of the debutantes, Elizabeth knows fortune hunters will swarm around her, making her time in London difficult. She decides to assume an atrocious stutter guaranteed to keep suitors away. When she meets Christian Llevanth, he ignores her stutter and challenges her to bend society's rules. Elizabeth recognizes a possible kindred spirit who also craves adventure and mystery.

The late Earl of Rochester has entrusted his devoted butler, Richard Robert Reeves, with the job of finding the earl's second illegitimate son and turning him into a gentleman worthy of his inheritance. Christian Llevanth accepts the title because it will permit him to exact revenge on the man who falsely accused his mother of treason. Armed with information, Christian believes Lady Elizabeth's grandfather is the villain. He plans to romance Elizabeth, gaining her trust and giving him access to her reclusive grandfather. Richard Robert Reeves stays in the background, offering moral advice and trying to ease the bitterness that fills Christian's heart.

Christian tries to ignore Reeves' advice, but his emotions regarding Elizabeth are conflicted. His bitterness dissolves and passion ignites when they're together; however, Christian can't let go of the revenge that's consumed his life for so long.

Ms. Hawkins pens an exciting and passionate story between two strong-willed people. It's a splendid read, which will hook readers from the first page.

Book Summary

No ordinary highwayman...

A mere whisper of the name "Gentleman James" sends chills throughout the ton (and thrills the ladies who have heard rumors of his amorous exploits). But the dashing brigand never dreamed that the passing of the father he never knew would leave him with a title, a fortune...and a mission.

No predictable lady...

Considered unmarriageable at twenty-five, Lady Elizabeth has the perfect life, happily snuggled among her beloved books while caring for her curmudgeonly grandfather. Or so she thinks until she meets Christian Llevanth, the dark and mysterious Viscount Westerville, and discovers the delicious ache of desire. Elizabeth finds herself longing for more -- more romance, more excitement, and definitely more passion. But when does "more" become "too much"?