LOVE IN THE TIME OF SCANDAL is Book three in Caroline Linden's Scandals (50 Ways to Sin) series. From the beginning, Penelope Weston appears to be an interesting and likable character. However, she immediately gets herself into a situation worthy of Jane Austen's Emma. Happily, Penelope is a more sympathetic version of Emma Woodhouse. Her loyalty to a friend and her unwavering belief in a romantic ideal leads her to find love when least expected.

In the early part of LOVE IN THE TIME OF SCANDAL, Penelope and Benedict have a somewhat antagonistic relationship. I like that the story is told from both points of view so that the reader is able to see what's behind the animosity.

Caroline Linden does a good job of explaining how, no matter what she tells herself, a lot of Penelope's abrasiveness to Benedict is just her way of protecting herself. She tries to push him away because, deep down, she originally liked him more than she always believed that he liked her. She harbors a little hurt that he originally courted her sister rather than her. It's satisfying when Penelope finally discovers just what a good man Benedict really is and how much he suffered in his past. With Penelope and Benedict, Caroline Linden has created two complex and textured characters.

At first, I was worried that the hero and heroine would be snapping at each other for the majority of the book, or that a misunderstanding would overshadow the relationship. I am pleased to say that neither thing proves to be true. Benedict and Penelope have a wonderful chemistry and the passion between them is incredibly intense. The drama created by Benedict's unfeeling and austere father, the mystery surrounding Penelope's friend, and the mischief caused by a true villain all add excitement to LOVE IN THE TIME OF SCANDAL without obscuring the romance.

LOVE IN THE TIME OF SCANDAL is a red-hot romance with shades of Jane Austen and Shakespeare. The characters are well-developed and the romance is beautifully crafted. LOVE IN THE TIME OF SCANDAL is a must-read for romance fans. I can't wait for the next book!

Book Summary

USA Today bestselling author Caroline Linden's third novel in her Scandalous series brings together a feisty heiress, a notorious rake, and a shocking book that could bring one woman the utmost despair— or the greatest pleasure

Penelope Weston does not like Benedict Lennox, Lord Atherton. He may be the suave and charming heir to an earl, as well as the most handsome man on earth, but she can't forget how he abandoned a friend in need— nor how he once courted her sister, Abigail. He's the last man she would ever marry. If only she didn't feel so attracted to the arrogant scoundrel . . .

Once upon a time, Benedict thought he and Penelope got along rather well. Though he needs a wealthy bride to escape his cruel father's control, spirited Penelope just doesn't suit his plans for a model marriage—until a good deed goes awry, and scandalous rumors link his name to Penelope's. She might not be the quiet, sensible wife he thought he wanted, but she is beautiful . . . beguiling . . . and far more passionate than he ever imagined. Can a marriage begun in scandal become a love match, too?