Love in the Time of Scandal

Linden's post-Regency Scandals series sizzles with this third installment as a marriage to avoid social scandal evolves into a greater emotional commitment. Benedict Lennox, Lord Atherton, wants to marry Frances Lockwood because of her sweet and biddable nature, but she won't marry him until he professes his undying devotion. Though Benedict believes that Penelope Weston hates him, unwanted circumstances force Benedict to wed Penelope in order to redeem her reputation. And while neither one loves the other, they both admit that their mutual attraction is enough to start out their marriage. But a cloud remains over their wedded bliss as Penelope believes that Benedict has mistreated a friend to save face with his evil father, the Earl of Stratford, and she can't understand Benedict's inability to stand up to him. As she and Benedict learn to trust one another, they build up an easy truce that could be marred by his father's sudden appearance in London. Penelope is an especially engaging protagonist with her outspoken, feminist nature. (May)