Ecstasy Wears Emeralds

Bernard's third Jaded Gentleman Victorian romance (after Revenge Wears Rubies and Seduction Wears Sapphires) sizzles as a pioneering woman finds love while pursuing her life's ambition. Gayle Renshaw travels to London to become the apprentice of Dr. Rowan West, a renowned physician. Rowan assumed his new apprentice was a man, but he reluctantly agrees to take Gayle on, hoping she will quit after being confronted with his most challenging cases. As Gayle thrives under Rowan's tutelage, their relationship crosses the line from professional into personal. Sensuality fills the pages as Gayle must decide how to profess her love for Rowan without harming her career. An intriguing suspense subplot adds substance and dimension, as does the departure from the typical historical focus on the nobility. (Sept.)