Gascoigne has spent the last 10 years raising her half- brothers and running the family estate after the death of her father. She's proud that her devotion has resulted in confident and happy young lads living on a prosperous estate. When her neighbor, Gervase, returns home, Madeline is startled at the attention he bestows on her. In the past, men have ignored her because of her forceful nature and the numerous responsibilities she handles. Flirting is an alien concept and one Madeline has no intention of beginning.

After years of working for the Crown and involved with intrigue, Gervase Tregarth, the sixth Earl of Crowhurst, wishes to live a quiet, peaceful life on his country estate. His first order of business is to find a proper wife who meets his strict conditions. As he prepares to go back to London, he notices for the first time his neighbor, Madeline. Although considered on the shelf, Madeline meets most of his requirements. Gervase decides to pursue her to see if they are compatible. When she discourages him, Gervase plans a seduction to change her mind.

Two strong personalities clash, but the chemistry between them catches Madeline's curiosity. She agrees to a passionate affair, but disavows marriage. Gervase has his hands full as he attempts to change her mind. As their affair continues, Gervase comes to realize his love for her and vows to make Madeline surrender her heart to him.

Newcomers and series fans will find pure pleasure in this latest Bastion Club tale. Ms. Laurens pairs powerful feminine and masculine personalities as they struggle to conquer. The Gascoigne brothers and Crowhurst sisters add fun, and eventually suspense, to the love story, for a villain lurks in the background engaging in mischief and finally havoc.

Book Summary

In a moment of recklessness, Gervase Tregarth, 6th Earl of Crowhurst, swears he'll marry the next eligible lady to cross his path. Cloistered at his ancestral castle in Cornwall, with nary a suitable woman for miles, he never expects he'll have to fulfill his pledge, at least not until the London Season begins. But then he meets his neighbor, the very appealing Madeline Gascoigne.

Years of secret service to the Crown have taught Gervase the value of always having a loophole—there will be no wedding if he and Madeline are incompatible in any way. So he sets out to prove that they would make a most dreadful match . . . by luring her into his arms and, ultimately, his bed.

From their very first kiss, Gervase discovers that the headstrong and independent Madeline is no meek country miss . . . and that the fire between them will burn long beyond that first seduction.