Scoundrel

Archer follows 2010's Warrior with another delightful tale of an intelligent, competent woman sharing adventure and romance with a formidable partner. In this version of 19th-century Europe, rival secret societies battle over ancient sources of magic. Meek linguist London Harcourt is brought to Greece by her controlling, secretive father. After a chance meeting with the charming Bennett Day, London learns that her father and his companions want England to control the world's magic, while Bennett's group, the Blades of the Rose, is trying to return the artifacts to the peoples that originally owned them. London, finally ready to make her own choices, becomes an active participant in the race to save the mystery of Greek fire from abuse by her father's organization, beginning a relationship with Bennett along the way. London's personal growth paces the adventure story beautifully, and readers will cheer for both the romance and the Blades. (Oct.)