Tiger by the Tail

Claybourne's newest historical romance (after Jaguar Eyes) is fresh, fast-paced fun. Independent Melisande Mooresby requires a husband--one who can pass as a gentleman--for three weeks only. Once her viscount grandfather is satisfied she's well wed, she'll finally gain her inheritance to fund a house of reform--and her younger, secretly pregnant sister will be free to wed her beloved. Melisande plucks a very handsome Scot out of the town jail to play the part of groom. Reluctant until he realizes his freedom is only an easy ""I do"" and an annulment away, Will Taggart agrees, keeping his own motives to himself. Once at Mooresby Hall, Melisande's brother delightfully ups the stakes for Will. As Melisande turns her ""brute"" into a gentleman worthy of her hand, Will discovers that the fringe benefits of the marriage just may foil his own plans for the future. In all, this is a charming and entertaining love story. (May)