The Very Daring Duchess (Sonnet Books)
Against the backdrop of the Napoleonic wars, Jarrett (Star Bright) spins a formulaic romance between a conservative Naval officer and an exotic arts dealer. After winning a victory against the French army, Captain Edward Ramsden, the unwanted fourth son of the Duke of Harborough, and a fellow officer decide to explore Naples and enjoy its diversions. Their first stop is the illustrious Signora Francesca Robin's studio d'artista, an eclectic museum containing a number of bogus art pieces as well as a large display of lewd paintings. Edward is more intrigued by Francesca's striking appearance and forward manner than her collection, however, and his awareness of her fraudulent dealings doesn't dampen his attraction. When the French army threatens to invade Naples, the Royal Navy prepares to evacuate all English citizens, but Francesca is denied passage because she is half English and half Neapolitan. Fearful of what may happen to Francesca after he departs, Edward volunteers to marry her. The story escalates with the promise of intrigue and sexual tension but, unfortunately, Jarrett packs her tale with maudlin dialogue and clich‚d commentary. Although Jarrett's sex scenes are steamy and descriptive, her characters are little more than cardboard.Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information, Inc.