Your Scandalous Ways

April 21, 2008
A world-weary British spy and master of disguises living in Regency Venice, James Cordier has been dispatched by the government to retrieve highly sensitive letters in courtesan Francesca Bonnard's possession. A few mishaps later, it's clear that Cordier isn't the only one wanting something from the notorious Francesca, who fled England following an affair that left her humiliated, divorced and friendless. Lord Elphick, her ex-husband, is a man with multiple mistresses and great political ambitions. Cordier's mission and Francesca's inability to ever trust a man again lead the two into a marvelously and intricately danced tango of a romance. An Italian woman with a penchant for emeralds, a grudge against Cordier and a misguided love for Lord Elphick sweetens the pot, but Chase hones in on her leads admirably. The two delight with sparkling dialogue, sizzling sex appeal and a surprising amount of pathos.

Starred review from April 15, 2008
Spy, secret agent, and "retrieval expert" for the Crown, nobly born James Cordier is the best in the business, so getting some politically crucial letters from Francesca Bonnard, the most notorious courtesan in Europe, should be a simple task. But James hadn't counted on Francesca's being wary, smart, and incredibly desirableor on his reaction to her. He also hadn't counted on someone wanting her dead. As oftentimes with author Mary Balogh, Chase does an exceptional job of turning a ruined woman into a believable heroine of surpassing quality and strength, making her sympathetic and giving her a worthy hero. Fascinating, compelling, and filled with unforgettable characters, this second volume in the "Fallen Woman" series is not to be missed. Chase ("Not Quite a Lady"), an exceptionally gifted historical romance writer, lives in Massachusetts.

Copyright 2008 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.