A LOVING SCOUNDREL: A Malory Novel

Lindsey's formula for bestselling historical romance features modern-thinking heroes and heroines in old-fashioned clothing, who meet in scenes reminiscent of favorite classics—and who then jump into bed with an enthusiasm that would make the authors of said classics blush. Her latest Regency picks up the Malory series (Gentle Rogue , etc.) after a long hiatus, to focus on Jeremy Malory. Raised a pirate but now enjoying the Malory fortune, socially prominent but streetwise Jeremy meets his match in Danny, a beautiful orphan with no memory of her past, who lives dressed as a boy with a group of London pickpockets. After catching her trying to rob him in a sketchy tavern, he promises to release her only after she breaks into the country home of a dastardly nobleman who cheated Jeremy's friend out of precious family heirlooms. Jeremy goes along for the ride, and when they're caught in the act, it takes Danny's quick wit and Jeremy's steady nerve to escape. Oliver Twist becomes Pygmalion as Danny becomes a maid in Jeremy's household and later tries to pass as a highborn lady to help her master escape the clutches of a scheming heiress. Of course, Danny has more in common with highborn ladies than she realizes, and the reader knows that eventually Danny will learn who she is and uncover the evildoer who stole her birthright. The fun of this costume drama, after all, is not in guessing what happens next but in knowing what will and savoring the anticipation. Lindsey brings nothing new to the mix, but she stirs it up with so much energy and spirit that it's hard not to find it delicious. (Apr.)

Forecast: Some fans have been waiting more than a decade for the dashing Malorys to return; their enthusiasm—not to mention Lindsey's perennial success—should ensure this hits the lists big.