Reviewed by: Book Addict

Pride and Passion
by Charlotte Featherstone

Published November 15, 2011 by HQN Books

Lucy Ashton had long ago given up her quest for true love. In the rarified society of Victorian England, Lucy plays the game--flirting, dancing and dabbling in the newly fashionable spiritualism. Even marrying when--and who--she's supposed to. If the stuffy Duke of Sussex cannot spark the passion she craves, he can at least give her a family, a home of her own,and a place to belong. But when her polite marriage reveals a caring and sensual man, Lucy begins to wonder if she can indeed have it all.

But Lord Sussex is not the man the London ton has come to admire. And Lucy has some ghosts of her own, as well. Thus, when a blackmail scheme turns to threats of danger, the newfound peace of the Sussex marriage is cast upon the rocks. Passion has a price, Lucy learns. And not all ghosts stay buried.

For a complete review which may contain SPOILERS, please click 'Read More' below:
I did not read the previous book in this series, Seduction and Scandal. However, Ms. Featherstone did a wonderful job re-capping its main events so that readers were not left wondering at plot and character references. I really enjoyed the blending of classic historical elements with the mystery and danger of the Brethren Guardians, protectors of important ancient artifacts.

Adrian and Lucy's road to everlasting love was quite a rocky one. Adrian has been smitten ever since first sight while Lucy believes her heart lies elsewhere and certainly not with a man she feels is a cold-hearted prig. Deadly secrets are revealed and evil enemies hatch nefarious schemes. Will danger bring them closer together or separate them forever?

Adrian and Lucy are so similar it is easy to see why they are so drawn to one another. Both suffer from feelings of worthlessness and loneliness and are deeply passionate, though they keep it hidden well.

The end of Pride and Passion left me gasping and clamoring for more. I eagerly anticipate Temptation and Twilight, the next book which releases sometime in July 2012.



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