Notorious Pleasures

Hoyt's second Maiden Lane novel (after 2010's Wicked Intentions), set in 1737 London, initially seems to follow the formula of the naïve virgin falling prey to the profligate rake. But Lady Hero Batten is quick-witted and forthright, and she refuses to be just another conquest for Griffin Remmington, her fiancé's younger brother. When Griffin insists on accompanying Hero to the orphanage she funds in the dangerous St. Giles area of London, Hero finds him an affable and attractive companion. Their relationship changes as Hero learns that Griffin isn't merely the irresponsible younger son he has pretended to be, and Griffin struggles to meet Hero's high expectations. Fans of historical detail will love subplots involving the campaign to halt the production of gin and the overwhelming need for decent orphanages, and the mysterious happenings in St. Giles provide excitement and suspense. (Feb.)