GORGEOUS AS SIN—Susan Johnson

La Grande Mort

Berkley Sensation

ISBN: 978-425-22681-0

March 2009

Erotic Historical

London, England—1891

The Duke of Groveland, Fitz Monckton, has a reputation for always getting what he wants, and what he wants is the last piece of property to build his development project. Unfortunately, that piece of property is owned by a rather obstinate book seller who refuses to sell her store, and she especially refuses to sell to “Odious, prodigal scoundrels who think their titles and wealth give them carte blanch to the world.”

Mrs. Rosalind St. Vincent has managed to save her book store, despite her late husband’s attempt to gamble away what few pennies it made. In order to save her store and help other women get an education and access to books, she’s turned to writing on the side, erotic writing that is. Rosalind certainly isn’t going to let a spoiled duke thwart her dreams of financial security and independence, even if he is offering a large sum of money to compensate her.

GORGEOUS AS SIN is a very witty and exciting story of two characters who attempt to have their way with each other without losing the things they most value. After learning Rosalind cannot be bought, Groveland attempts to seduce her by whatever means necessary. He will even use blackmail and subterfuge if he must. Rosalind knows Groveland’s type after being raised as a penniless ward of the aristocracy. She has many secrets that she must keep from Groveland if she is to win their game of wits, but can she hang on to her heart against the Duke’s skillful seduction?

Susan Johnson delivers an engagingly quick-witted and sensual tale full of passion and comedy. She transports the reader to19th Century London and the social issues of the day, while still providing light-hearted entertainment. She explores themes of gender equality without compromising those values that unite all women; and she does it while having fun! Johnson gives readers well written sex scenes without compromising the plot. Intimate scenes are scorchingly creative and will leave readers very satisfied. 

GORGEOUS AS SIN has everything a reader could want and is one story that readers won’t want to miss. It is with great pleasure that I award it La Grande Mort.

Mel Mason