Lord of Temptation

December 12, 2005
Set in England a few years after the Norman conquest, Quinn's lively second romance in a historical trilogy (after Lord of Desire
) offers two spirited protagonists as well as engaging minor characters. Handsome and wealthy Lord Dante Risande, a skilled warrior, has become accustomed to advances from adoring women. Unfortunately, the one woman he truly desires, Gianelle, is indifferent—almost hostile—toward him. Since Gianelle has been a slave to brutal masters her entire life, her only goal is to obtain freedom. Risande merely represents another master. When Gianelle becomes the sole suspect in the poisoning death of her previous master, Lord Bryce Dermott, her only hope for mercy lies with Risande. Determined to woo her, Risande treats Gianelle patiently and kindly, but the romance really ignites when they reach Risande's castle near Dover. Though the lengthy love scenes and exaggerated descriptions of Risande's "raw power and brutal beauty" impede the plot, the sharp repartee and dramatic finale make this a pleasant read.

December 15, 2005
More than anything, Gianelle Dejiat wants to be free. After spending the last five years thanklessly serving Lord Bryce Dermott and trying to avoid the unwanted attentions of his brother, Edgar, she has finally saved up enough money to run away. Unfortunately, the same night that Gianelle tries to escape, Lord Bryce is murdered, and Gianelle is caught trying to leave the castle by King William's visiting envoy, Dante Risande. Dante is convinced that Gianelle is innocent of the crime, but the only way he can protect her from Edgar is by taking Gianelle with him. Gianelle is certain her new "master" has some kind of job in mind for her, quite possibly as his latest concubine, so Gianelle is more than a little surprised when Dante offers her the one thing no man has ever given her: her freedom. Quinn's second engaging historical romance features a sinfully sexy hero who meets his match in a strong-willed heroine and is an excellent choice for readers who like powerful, passion-rich medieval romances.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2005, American Library Association.)