A Wicked Game

A childhood rivalry evolves into a passionate attraction in Bateman’s effervescent third Ruthless Rivals Regency (after A Daring Pursuit). Harriet Montgomery and Morgan Davies spent their childhood in Wales trying to best one another in a series of escalating bets. Their highest-stakes wager comes in young adulthood: with Morgan off to fight against Napoleon in the Royal Navy, Harriet challenges him to come back alive—if he does, she’ll grant him three kisses. Morgan returns from his harrowing experience two years later and heads to London determined to track down R. Crusoe, the mapmaker whose incorrect map led to his shipwreck and imprisonment. He’s shocked to learn that R. Crusoe is none other than Harriet herself, who’s been working with British intelligence to put false maps into French hands. Morgan is dismayed at Harriet’s involvement in this dangerous endeavor, which has made her the target of a Frenchman seeking buried treasure. He’s determined to protect her—while also cashing in on his promised kisses. The duo’s barbed banter and constant competition proves a delicious prelude to seduction and love. Regency fans will be drawn in by this fast-paced romance and its strong-willed heroine. (Dec.)