Lisa Valdez, Patience

Patience

Lisa Valdez

Berkley, Apr 2010, $7.99

ISBN: 9780425210543

In 1851 England Patience Dare is happy for her sister Passion, but also envious as she wants what her sibling has, a man who cherishes and loves her. However, as one suitor after another fails to heat her soul, Patience begins to believe she will never have someone like Mark Hawksmore is to his new wife Patience.

That is until one kiss by Mark's brother Matthew. Both are excited by their attraction, but whereas she knows he is her soulmate and he agrees, he feels unworthy of her. Recently, Mark learned he was illegitimate and his fianc e upon hearing the news dumped him. Instead of running away, Patience begins playing sexual submission games with Mark while also assisting him in saving his business, but honor and justice may keep them apart.

With a couple of superb twists, Patience is a terrific Victorian erotic romance starring a wonderfully ethical young woman who enjoys submissive-dominance games in bed while also expects the best out of her beloved. Mark is the more fascinating character as he perceives his life is ruined ever since he learned he is illegitimate. Readers will appreciate this strong historical wondering whether Mark will ever come to grips with who he is.

Harriet Klausner