The men of the Bastion Club proved their bravery secretly fighting for their country. Now their leader faces that most dangerous mission of all: finding a bride. As the mysterious leader of the Bastion Club known as "Dalziel," Royce Varisey, tenth Duke of Wolverstone, served his country for decades, facing dangers untold. But as the holder of one of England's most august noble titles, he must now take on that gravest duty of all: marriage.
Yet the young ladies the grand dames would have him consider are predictably boring. Far more tempting is his castle's willful and determinedly aloof chatelaine, Minerva Chesterton. Beneath her serene faÇade lies a woman of smoldering sensuality, one who will fill his days with comfort and his nights with sheer pleasure. Determined to claim her, he embarks on a seduction to prove his mastery over every inch of her body . . . and every piece of her heart.
I LOVE Stephanie Laurens and this book is just a great reminder of why that love is so justified. She is hands down my favorite author for regency England romances, I don't care how historically inaccurate they might be. Her woman are just strong representations of femininity, strong without obviously kicking ass or taking names - subtlety is the word for a Laurens heroine. And in this book Laurens another compelling hero in Royce - the head of the Bastion Club come home at last to claim his Ducal title. It's one of those books that while it might look like it only has a simple plot from the outside, is actually quite complex and the twists and turns that result in the happy ending are engaging and enjoyable. I highly recommend it, as a stand alone or as the last in the series.
Overall Feeling - Thumbs (way) up. A great conclusion and a wonderful example of what makes Lauren a pinnacle of the romance genre.
Series - Prequel) Captain Jack's Woman 1) The Lady Chosen 2) A Gentlemen's Honor 3) A Lady of His Own 4) A Fine Passion 5) To Distraction 6) Beyond Seduction 7) The Edge of Desire 8) Mastered By Love
