Notorious Rake, Innocent Lady

Once again I picked up a Historical because of the sexy cover, and I'm very happy to report that this time, the cover accurately (yet elegantly) reflects the level of sensuality in the novel.  This novel is part of the new, very subtly flashed "Undone" series in Harlequin Historical, which promises -- and so far, delivers -- a higher level of sexuality than the usual Historical novel.

I cannot emphasize enough what a fun, sexy, gripping read this is.  Right from the opening paragraph, I was hooked as the heroine, Julia, reacts with very modern horror at being informed of her own upcoming nuptials to an odious man.  Straight away she fixates upon a plan and puts it in motion -- no waiting around for her prince to come and rescue her, this is a maiden of action! Her uncle and guardian has promised the man a virgin bride in exchange for a bride price that will take care of his debts; so Julia determines to lose her virginity, that very night, to the most notorious rake in London.

It's no spoiler alert to let you know that, in the process of thoroughly ruining Julia's reputation, the alleged rake proves himself to be a man of honor after all, and the two develop a bond that transcends their arrangement.  What surprised me was the depth of plot beyond this delicious premise; this novel has society scandals and intrigues, lavishly described balls and routs, duels, fights, daring escapes and rescues -- oh, and lots and lots and lots of imaginative and lovingly described sex scenes. 

I highly recommend this novel to anyone who enjoys both Blaze and Historical novels; this book has the best of both!