Cheryl Holt, Secret Fantasy

Secret Fantasy

Cheryl Holt

St. Martin's, Mar 2007, $6.99

ISBN: 0312942540

When her parents died young, Margaret Gray moved into the household of her Aunt Lavinia where she learnt what it was like to be the unwelcome poor relative. Over the years she has also become adept at ignoring her nasty younger cousin Penelope and the belief she will remain a worthless spinster as no man would marry a penniless female with no dowry and no chance of meeting anyone as her odious aunt has insured she is a social zero. In other words, be grateful for the charitable crumbs.

In 1812, Lavinia invites an Earl, Jordan Prescott, to her home, thinking his rank is perfect for her offspring. However, he ends up in a room occupied by a half-undressed Margaret. He begins to make love to her though he wonders why she is older than his hostess mentioned. She admits to herself she is enjoying every kiss and caress. While he offers her the opportunity to share debauchery, which to her chagrin, Margaret is considering, Jordan knows he must marry wealth. This means wedding the heiress cousin if he is to provide for the future of his half-siblings after his father destroyed everyone's prospects, but he is falling in love with the poor relative though someone else will go to lethal means to keep them apart on this world.

SECRET FANTASY is a delightful, regency, erotic, romantic suspense starring two likable lead characters who find their limited options means no relationship beyond a month of heaven before plunging into diverse hells. The storyline is fast-paced as Jordan and Margaret make love every moment they have together with both knowing the end is in sight. Though Lavinia comes from the Cinderella step-mother school (aunt aside) and the suspense comes late, readers will enjoy this strong tale of forbidden love.

Harriet Klausner