THE PLEASURE OF HIS BED – Melissa MacNeal, Donna Grant, Annalise Russell
Kensington Aphrodisia
ISBN 13:  978-0-7582-2854-3
ISBN 10:  0-7582-2854-6
September 2008
Erotic Historical Romance Anthology

Three tales of love, lust and the submission of ladies who really appreciate THE PLEASURE OF HIS BED...

The Captain’s Courtesan – Melissa MacNeal
London, England - 1717

One taste of Captain Damon Delacroix was not enough for Sophia Martine.  To quench her desire for more, Sophia stows away on Damon’s ship.  The course of her life changes drastically in ways Sophia could not imagine, but unknowingly craves.  Damon has mixed emotions when he finds Sophia naked in his bed.  He knows he has to punish her and vows that they will enjoy every minute of it. 

Sophia’s boldness and brash attitude may not endear her to readers, but her audacity may be applauded by the end of The Captain’s Courtesan. 

Ties That Bind – Donna Grant
Outskirts of the Quantra Province – the past

Sometimes enemies make the best lovers.  Queen Jarina was kidnapped by traitors and sold into slavery.  With only one look at Jarina, King Kyros was determined to have her.  He doesn’t realize that she is the same Queen who is at war with his kingdom.  Instead, he only knows her as his willing and responsive slave.  If readers can get over the unconvincing ease of Jarina’s acceptance of her new status as a slave, Ties That Bind  is sure to please because it is just plain ole’ H-O-T.

In His Bed – Annalise Russell
A Viking Village – the past

Captured by Vikings, Chessa is willing to do whatever it takes to end her servitude.  Vowing to become Bodin’s sex slave in exchange for passage to safety on his ship is a no brainer.  However, this innocent lady is not prepared for Bodin’s expectations or expert manipulation of her virginal body.  Oh, the joys of new experiences!  Dear Chessa proves to be a great understudy!  In His Bed became my favorite of the three tales.

THE PLEASURE OF HIS BED starts off a little rocky and slow but ends with a bang.  A common theme interlinking the tales is that of a strong hero and a supposedly submissive mistress (who eventually becomes the ruler of his heart).  None of these stories have many secondary characters as the focus is all on the main characters.  I recommend this anthology to readers looking for a quick escape.

Ariel Summer