Improper Seduction

Starred review from November 22, 2010
In this original and captivating 16th-century romance, Wine tantalizes readers with a tale of passion and longing. Bridget Newbury, betrothed to the handsome and capable Lord Curan Ramsden, is inexplicably called to London by her father to marry another. An esteemed knight who has ridden alongside King Henry VIII, Curan defends his right to marry Bridget and carries her off. Bridget's mother arranged to have her tutored for marriage by a courtesan, and the young woman's sexual awakening brings with it newfound courage and confidence that she will need as she finds herself hauled toward the dangerous Scottish-English border and torn between duty to her father and her increasing affection and yearning for her betrothed. Readers will cheer on Wine's delightfully clever and sharp-tongued protagonist and will be glued to the passion, humor, escapades, and court intrigue till the very last page.