The Secret to Seduction

Sabrina Fairleigh, adopted daughter of the vicar of Tinbury, "counts herself fortunate to be possessed of an even temperament" and imagines it must be a terrible inconvenience, and quite uncomfortable, to be at the mercy of one's passions. Not surprisingly, these views change when she meets the Libertine, otherwise known as Rhys Gillray, earl of Rawden, in this amusing Regency romance. Rhys, author of a seductive poetry volume that has both scandalized and enthralled the women of the ton , has grown bored of debauchery and decides that de-thawing the chilly Sabrina is the perfect project to keep his mind occupied and his skills sharp. As he gradually breaks down Sabrina's composure with seductive innuendo and impassioned bickering, drama unfolds elsewhere: a prisoner finally faces trial for the 17-year-old murder of a revered politician. Unbeknownst to Sabrina, the murdered man holds the key to reuniting her long-lost family. Though a bit wordy, Long's sharp leads keep this witty tale of love, passion, family and betrayal moving nicely. (May)