Smitten by Books

In Pursuit of a Scandalous Lady
Author: Gayle Callen
Publisher: Avon/HarperCollins
Pub. Date: April 27, 2010
Retail: $7.99
384 pages

The biggest secret in London is about to be . . . revealed.

Every gentleman is wondering: Who is the beauty in the scandalous nude portrait hanging in one of London’s most fashionable clubs? Is it true that she’s a member of the ton? Who would be so daring? So reckless?

Julian Delane, Earl of Parkhurst, has a good idea. So good, in fact, that he’s willing to make a wager on it. If only the bet were all that’s at stake…

Determined to clear the family name from a scandal that claimed his father’s life, Julian believes the ravishing model will lead him to answers. Rebecca Leland—spirited, adventurous, with a bit of a wild streak—is just as determined to evade his questions. But when Julian finally corners his quarry, he may find Rebecca well worth the pursuit.

~*~*~

An exciting journey to discover the truth about a scandalous painting, with a stolen jewel and a love that blooms in some interesting circumstances to add to this delectable read.

This book is the start of a new Sisters of Scandal series. It is linked not only to the Sons of Scandal series but also has characters from several other of Gayle’s previous books. I have read the main connected series and anticipate reading through Gayle’s library.

This particular story moved along at a good pace, it wasn’t all action all the time, but still progressed well for me. The relationship development was almost perfect and I enjoyed the fact that I could believe in the attraction that grew between the main characters.

Gayle introduced us to Rebecca in several previous books and I liked her immensely. You get a sense that she has been coddled most of her life after repeated illnesses and needs to exert her independence from her stifling family. She wants excitement and adventure and, with her fun loving nature, she is not afraid to try something totally out of her element. Could posing nude for a painting be part of that adventure?

Enter Julian, who is one interesting man. Strong and used to being in control, Rebecca tests his patience and self-control—something he objects to greatly! But once he decides that he wants her, and forever at that, nothing will stand in his way of getting the woman he wants… even Rebecca herself.

The love scenes were romantic, captivating and very well written.

This book sets the stage for a very interesting trilogy. I am anticipating the next two books out later this year and the spring of next year. Check out Gayle’s website for a listing of all her books. Make sure to read the page that explains how her books are connected… I love when an author does that for her readers.

Rating: 8 (Very Good)

Heat-Level: 3 (Sensual)

If you’d like another take on the same book, click here to read the review by Lynette posted on The Season website.