My Lord Protector
Young Julianna Ramsay marries the older, stern Sir Edmund Fitzhugh to protect herself from her abusive stepbrother Jerome.  Julianna is waiting for her true love, Sir Edmund's nephew Crispin, to return to her in two years when he finishes his naval commitment.  In the meantime, she will be safe in the protection of Sir Edmund.  Edmund goes from protector to friend as time passes, leading Julianna to question where her affections lie- with the young man she gave her heart to, or to her husband. Despite his preference for bachelorhood, Edmund marries Julianna to get her away from Jerome.  The age difference between Julianna and him is a constant reminder that the beautiful woman belongs to someone else, if only in her heart.  Yet, Edmund enjoys the friendship and company of his new young bride.  His growing fondness for Julianna is just that and nothing more, or so he would like to believe. Deborah Hale has written a sweet romance about two appealing characters.  Julianna and Edmund seem to be ill matched, yet their marriage of convenience develops into true love.  Some readers may be put off by the age gap between Julianna and Edmund, but the author uses the age difference to best effect- to demonstrate that love is ageless.  Ms. Hale is a new author on the scene but her writing style is fresh and polished.  The eighteenth century comes alive under her pen and the details only serve to enhance an otherwise delightful love story. Deborah Hale is a rising star in historical romance!  A name to remember! My Lord Protector is a rare and special romance.  Readers will be charmed by this gifted author! A heartwarming love story.  Definitely a keeper! Kristina Wright  --Copyright © 030199 Literary Times, Inc.  All rights reserved--FromLiterary Times