Scandal's Bride (Cynster Novels, 3) - Softcover

Beautiful Scotswoman Catriona Hennessy knows that she must eventually marry and so decides that she requires a mild-mannered, biddable husband, a man who will agree to father a daughter to inherit Casphairn Manor and who will leave her free to manage her holdings without interference. Unfortunately, the spirit of the earth that protects the manor and its valley, the Lady of the Vale, has other plans. The Lady firmly tells Catriona that the man who shall father her children is none other than Richard Cynster, better known throughout the land as "Scandal." Richard is definitely not the mild-mannered man Catriona had in mind, and even worse, he's English. Although Catriona fights the command of the Lady, all she gets for her efforts is a headache.

The two unlikely lovers are thrown together in a cold Scottish castle by the reading of a last will and testament. And while Richard is wildly attracted to the lovely Scottish lady, marriage doesn't cross his mind until the will is read and he is compelled to consider the subject. Richard's restless search for family and home becomes focused on Catriona and any doubts he has are quickly erased by his already raging physical attraction to her. Convincing Catriona that they are well-suited, however, is another matter entirely. Who will win this battle of wills--Richard or Catriona? And how will Richard resolve his need to protect and defend Catriona while leaving her free to fulfill her responsibilities to the Lady of the Vale?

Laurens's latest tale will impress readers with its intense sensuality, colorful Scottish scenery, and strong, expertly drawn characters--from the hero and heroine down to the most minor member of the cast. Combine those elements with a competent plot, throw in an intriguing glimpse of ancient mother earth worship in the British Isles, and it all adds up to a novel well worth reading. --Lois Faye Dyer

When Catriona Hennessy, honorable Scottish Lady of the Vale, received this prediction, she was exceedingly aghast. How could she unite with a rake like Richard Cynster -- a masterful man with a scandalous reputation? More shocking still was her guardian's will that decreed she and Richard be wed within a week! Though charmed by his commanding presence and wooed by his heated kisses, she would not -- could not -- give up her independence. So she formed a plan to get the heir she needed without taking wedding vows.

Richard was just as stunned by the will's command. Marriage had not previously been on his agenda, but lately he'd been feeling rather...restless. Perhaps taming the lady was just the challenge he needed. But can he have the rights of the marriage bed without making any revealing promises of love?