If He’s Tempted

In Howell’s fifth historical paranormal (after If He’s Dangerous), the psychic Wherlockes unite to help Brent Mallam, the much-despised earl of Fieldgate, rescue his 16-year-old sister from marriage to an old lech. Lady Olympia Wherlocke offers her family’s many resources and skills, and soon Brent learns that his mother heads up a child-trafficking ring and he becomes resolved to shut her down—but quietly, to spare his siblings the scandal. Along the way, he and Olympia fall in love and then into bed. Olympia was raped, married, and widowed at 13; now 26, she has still never had a positive sexual experience. Brent is glad to help fix that but fears his notorious womanizing will tarnish her immaculate reputation if they’re seen together. Their lovemaking is supposed to be both tender and heated, but most of the passion and humor come from their interactions outside of bed. The close family bonds and lively banter remain the best part of the series. Agent: Evan Marshall, Evan Marshall Agency. (Apr.)