Miss Claudia Prattley submits to her father's every wish except for one passion she's hidden from him. It's her love of illustrating. Claudia secretly accepts employment as an illustrator for a newspaper. It's her only rebellion from her father's constant barrage of criticism. If Claudia doesn't conform, her father threatens to banish her to the country. Under this pressure, she agrees to marry a protégé of her father. Unfortunately, her father's choice would prefer he could further his career without marrying Claudia.

Having barely survived a scandal in his late father's newspaper, Derrick Middleton strives to succeed by publishing a paper filled not only with social news, but also with pointed political views. His sales have dramatically increased since C.J. Prattley's illustrations have appeared. Upon learning C.J. is a woman and the daughter of the man who tried to destroy him, Derrick pretends to court Claudia.

Claudia can't believe a handsome and mesmerizing man would look twice at a plump, plain woman. As Derrick proceeds to woo her with compliments and kisses, Claudia succumbs to his charms. Now she has to choose between her father and the forbidden Derrick.

Ms. DeHart's debut is a charming love story filled with appealing characters. Claudia and Derrick heat up the pages with their illicit encounters. I hope this author's next story will be about Claudia's best friend, Poppy, a strong secondary character who's left heartbroken at the end of this tale.

Book Summary

An artist with a keen eye for the beauty surrounding her— yet none for her own—duty-bound Claudia is resigned to marrying the man of her domineering father's choosing. First, though, she must resign the job she has held in secret as society illustrator "C.J. Prattley." But dashing newspaper owner Derrick Middleton is instantly captivated by Claudia's talent, wit, and sweet nature—and the passionate inner fire she unknowingly possesses. He has other plans for this extraordinary woman.

Until Claudia first entered his London office, Derrick cared for only his paper and the wild bachelor life he has long enjoyed. Now saving Claudia from a dismal marriage— and winning her for himself—becomes hi main concern. But courting a woman like Claudia will not be an easy undertaking for a handsome cynic who has always believed true love is not for him—especially after they succumb to an indiscretion that could lead two hearts to ruin...of a most delicious variety.

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