The Passionate Love of a Rake (Marlow In...

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'The Passionate Love of a Rake' overflows with sensuous Regency romance.The second in the Marlowe Intrigues this is definitely my favourite so far.

Robert the elder brother of Edward who we met in The Illicit Love of a Courtesan (Marlow Intrigues, #1) is the passionate rake. A dark, brooding man full of mystery is gradually unraveled by Jane the Dowager Duchess of Sutton, his first love.

This story oozes romance and heartbreak.

Jane's story reveals the exploitation of women in Regency society. Finally free of her cruel, aged husband she finds his son determined to extract the fortune his father left her by whatever means he can.

The depth of the depravity Jane experienced combined with what she sees as Robert's abandonment of her when she needed him most ensures the story is rife with emotional conflict.

Robert's perceptions change as the story develops and he realises why Jane rejects him even if her body cannot.

The story is effortless to read, pure escapism with plenty of excellent supporting characters to hold your interest aside from the passionate romance between Jane and Robert.

The political nature of the society during this time is well described as is the indiscriminate censure it dealt out to those out of favour.

If you are looking for something to warm the winter evenings 'The Passionate Love of a Rake' is perfect.

I received a copy this book from Harper Collins HarperImpulse via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

Jane Hunt Writer First Steps

Jane Hunt Writer Book Reviews Google +

'The Illicit Love of a Courtesan' is Ellen's poignant battle to overcome the abuse she suffered after husband's death at Waterloo. Her emotional rebirth necessitates self-forgiveness and trust of others before she accepts the love which will restore her humanity and self-worth. Numerous obstacles plague her life in the form of cruel men and society's unforgiving strictures. To find her happy ever after she must harness her fears and conquer these.

Edward a second son has lost his life motivation after the return of his elder brother to reclaim his legacy which has prospered under Edward's stewardship. Wiling his time away in a notorious gaming hell he notices and ultimately has an intimate liaison with Ellen a courtesan who he wins for a couple of hours when he calls her protector Gainsborough out for cheating.

The passion ignites between them and even though she belongs to another Edward cannot forget her. He seeks her out and they enjoy and illicit week of passion whilst her protector is away. On Gainsborough's return he threatens Ellen with her worst nightmare and she runs to Edward the only one who can save her.

Full of angst this story draws you in as soon as the gravity of Ellen's situation is evident. Edward is a true hero willing to protect his lady against all evils and able to forgive her even when she lies.

The supporting cast of characters are interesting and I look forward to the next in the series. 'The Passionate Love of a Rake'

'The Illicit Love of a Courtesan' is an emotional romantic story which gives an excellent insight into the vulnerability of young women in Regency society.