Paula Quinn, Lord of Temptation

Lord of Temptation

Paula Quinn

Warner, Feb 2006, $6.50, 336 pp.

ISBN: 0446615951

In 1071 William's Royal Commander Lord Dante Risande accompanied by his loyal friend Sir Balin de Farge visits the keep of Lord Bryce Dermont, whose brother Edgar might be a traitor. He is surprised to find a Norman slave but wants Gianelle Dejiat in his bed. She refuses but he offers her protection especially from Edgar. When Bryce is poisoned, Edgar accuses Gianelle, but Dante out manoeuvres him and takes her and her friend Casey, who looks like his late sister, with them, promising that William will look into the homicide.

Dante believes that Edgar killed his brother and plans to prove this, and that the man is a traitor. He also tries to coax the lovely Gianelle into his bed, but though she seems interested, she says no as she wants her freedom, something she has never tasted. As they battle over their attraction and he sets out to prove her innocence by uncovering the identity of the real killer, they fall in love, but she fears any relationship with her new master means slavery.

Lord of Temptation is a very complicated medieval tale that besides the obvious historical romance, contains several mysteries (not just the prime one listed above) that all merge into a strong Conqueror thriller. Gianelle is a wonderful courageous protagonist used to brutal males, while Casey, on the other hand, is reticent and fearful, having fallen from a safe haven to the abuse of men. The males in their lives are caring kind warriors willing to die to protect their beloved women, but also chivalrous towards other females, regardless of station. The enigma of Hereward the Wake adds depth, and leads to an obvious sequel to the pleasure of readers.