The Scoundrel in Her Bed

Heath’s emotionally stirring third Sin for All Seasons novel (after When a Duke Loves a Woman), set in Victorian England, captures the essence of young but enduring love. Finn Trewlove and his siblings were raised in London’s underbelly by Ettie, who took in bastard children the nobility farmed out. Now employed as a horse slaughterer, 21-year-old Finn meets 15-year-old Lady Lavinia (aka Vivi) when her father demands her beloved horse, Sophie, be sacrificed after throwing Vivi to the ground. Finn rescues Sophie, and for two years, he and Vivi clandestinely meet to visit her, sharing moonlit nights in conversation and friendship. When Finn finally initiates their passionate romance, their naive and hasty plans for the future are cruelly halted by Vivi’s noble family, and they don’t meet again until eight years later, wounded but hoping secretly that their love will win out over circumstances and social pressures. Heath unfolds their story in two time periods, putting a new spin on the familiar romance trope of separating young lovers of different classes. This tender and intimate story will make readers’ hearts sing. Agent: Robin Rue, Writers House. (Feb.)