Once She Was Tempted (A Honeycote Novel)
Earl Benjamin Elliott owns a sensual painting of a beautiful woman, and he’s surprised when he realizes that the subject is the woman his ward is now courting. It’s true that Daphne Honeycote posed for two paintings to help pay for her mother’s medication. Now, thanks to her sister’s marriage in When She Was Wicked  (2013), she and her family are members of the ton and her reputation is at stake. Benjamin warns her off from his ward, but he is attracted to her himself and agrees to help her find the other painting. Daphne is sympathetic to his concerns yet shows  backbone in her plight.  Wounded veteran Benjamin is a dark yet appealing hero, and their chemistry is palpable. Benjamin’s feelings for Daphne are fun to track as they change and their attraction intensifies. Their efforts to fight a blackmailer provide a satisfying and surprising ending. Fans of historical romance, especially books by Tessa Dare and Grace Burrowes, will enjoy Barton, who is proving to be an enticing new voice. --Amy Alessio