DELICIOUSLY WICKED

Author: Robyn DeHart ISBN: 0061127523 10/2006 HISTORICAL Publisher: AVON
Time Period: England - 1892

When wildly independent Meg Piddington finds herself locked in her father's chocolate factory after hours with a most disarmingly attractive gentleman, she doesn’t realize that she is his alibi-proof that Gareth Mandeville did not commit a dastardly crime. But admitting as much would destroy her reputation, which gallant Gareth refuses to do. Besides, he believes even prison would be preferable to marriage, which is what their revelation would certainly demand! At last, here's the perfect opportunity for Meg to doff her sleuthing hat to get to the root of the secretive stranger's troubles! Besides, the man sends oh-so-pleasant shivers coursing through her body. And though heaven may well await in Gareth's embrace, danger may dwell there also…if the determined lady embarks on a grand mission to win his love.

RRAH's THOUGHTS AND PONDERINGS:

DELICIOUSLY WICKED is not really all that wicked, but I suppose it is delicious since the storyline revolves around a confectionery. It is also funny and sweet, and while there is a mystery afoot, it is not written with a heavy hand.

This second installment of the Ladies' Amateur Sleuth Society offers some chuckles and intrigue, but it is really not a read to tie up emotions. Every once in awhile, it is refreshing to read something like this. Something that skims over passion, plight, and so on, without becoming dark and depressing. Don't misunderstand, there is substance here, but it is not completely anxiety-filled or particularly thrilling. It is simply interesting.

If you always relish an enthralling read, you may not be excited about this one. Despite some of the conflict and strife it contains, it is not a whirling vortex of drama and problems. It's easy, with the author just giving glimpses of trouble, but clearly setting up a happy ending. I don't mean to belittle the hardships between the pages, it is just written in a way that the outcome is obviously destined to be happy.

Shannon Johnson