Dearest Rogue

Hoyt’s eighth Maiden Lane series installment (after Darling Beast) imbues 18th-century England with vivid realism, as a protector falls in love with the woman he is guarding. Capt. James Trevillion, previously a member of the 4th Dragoons, has been hired by the Duke of Wakefield to guard his blind sister, Lady Phoebe Batten, from the threat of kidnapping. Though James doubts that his injured leg will hold up in a fight, he is reluctant to give up his post. Phoebe is initially annoyed by his intrusion into her life, but she comes to rely on his solid protection. Suspense ratchets up a notch when Phoebe and James must flee London to a location where he believes that he can keep her safe; in close proximity, the friends soon become lovers. Hoyt has created an especially strong admirable character in Phoebe, a woman who is determined to experience life to the fullest. Her innocent sensuality is both captivating and enchanting, creating scintillating romance between her and the stoic captain. (June)