When Rona Sharon wrote
her debut "My Wicked Pirate," It was considered an unbelievably
well-written story that read like it was written by an author that had
written many books. Now with "Once a Rake," Ms. Sharon has proven with
her complicated storyline and in-depth characters that her debut
Historical Romance was not first time luck, but rather a debut of an
extremely talented writer that is and will become a Historical Romance
Reader's favorite for years to come.
In this heartwarming story, the strong, troubled, lonely and handsome
Paris, Earl of Ashby leaves England to fight Napoleon with his best
friend Will and returns with physical as well as emotional scars, which
include not returning with his best friend Will. He returns with what
he left behind, which is an even stronger love for Will's little sister
Isabel. Lady Isabel Aubrey is even more beautiful, independent and
strong than when she was thirteen years old when Paris last saw her.
They both fondly remember that last kiss on a garden bench; Isabel's
first. Returning scarred in so many ways, he realizes he loves Isabel
even more, but is not good enough for her. But Isabel, stronger than
she was as a young girl, has never forgotten that first kiss on a
garden bench long ago and has rejected numerous marriage proposals,
leaving her heart open for Paris. Paris returns a recluse, but she
tracks him down and brings him back to life on so many levels. Because
of his love for Isabel, he eventually finds himself returning to
society, and also helping her and her friends with their charity for
war widows. But there are those who want to destroy Paris and Isabel's
love, and even go as far as ruining the society that Isabel created
that is helping so many war torn families.
Isabel learns the difference between young puppy love and true sensual
love while Paris comes to realize that he is more than a beautiful
face. Once a rake, and at the top of society, he discovers true love is
more than sensuality and passion, but true friendship and
companionship. As Isabel and Paris learn the true meaning of life and
love there is mystery, suspense, and an evil out to destroy what they
have. Can Paris return to society, while Isabel learns to accept the
changed Paris that is now so different from the handsome rake she first
kissed so long ago?
This story is another hard to put down book that keeps the reader
engrossed until the end. It is a true delight and not to be missed for
those who love good, solid Regencies with mystery and sensuality.
Publisher: Zebra
(December 2007)
Reviewed
by Beverly,
Beverly Romance Books
