Dreams of Desire
Cheryl Holt
Berkley, Dec 7 2010, $7.99
ISBN: 9780425239186
In 1814 Lily Lambert applies for the position of companion to Melissa and Melinda, the eighteen years old twin wards of John Middleton, the Earl of Penworth. The sisters threaten to harm her so Lily considers walking away from the job, but needs the money so when John offers her employment she accepts. John would prefer more time to select a more suitable and less beautiful companion to Melissa and Melinda, but time has run out as they head to Scotland tomorrow.
Lily met Phillip Dubois and his sister briefly at Penworth Hall in rural England and at the London docks, but is stunned to see him near Penworth Castle in Scotland where he tells her his name is Phillip Dudley and the French accent is gone. Lily previously bought a bottle of “the spinster curse” from Phillip as she hoped the local schoolmaster will desire her so that she can stop being a companion to the pair of hellhounds. However, John walks between her and her chosen one. He finds her intelligence enhancing her beauty. Intoxicated by his affection, John begins to believe Lily when she insists his wards are beasts. As they fall in love, everyone near and dear, even those estranged, to him seem to be finding their romantic groove too, but Lily’s “advisor” causes a rift between the pair.
The latest Spinster’s Curse Regency romance is similar in tone to the previous tales (see Taste of Temptation and Promise of Pleasure) with an adult Cinderella story line, but once again the strong cast makes for an the amusing comedy of errors historical. Fans will enjoy Cheryl Holt’s “Sensual Destiny” tale humor and love combine for an entertaining read.
Harriet Klausner
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