A LITTLE BIT WICKED

Author: Victoria Alexander ISBN: 006088262X 1/2007 HISTORICAL Publisher: AVON
Time Period: Victorian England 1854

Who will be the last unmarried man standing? No man in his right mind would want to get married, but every duke, earl, and viscount knows that a fellow must do his duty in the end. So four of London's most desirable gentlemen make a wager—the prize going to the one who remains unwed the longest. Gideon Pearsall, Viscount Warton, thinks he has a a fair shot at winning. After all, he's managed to enjoy the favors of many a lady while resisting the parson's noose. Even when he's stopped dead in his tracks by the most scandalous woman in all of London—Judith, Lady Chester—he vows to have her bedded but never wedded. Beautiful, and more than a little bit naughty, Judith has always kept herself within the bounds of respectability, even while playing by her own rules. And the experience has taught her to avoid marriage. She has no desire to resist Warton's hot kisses, and his tempting touch is impossible to ignore. But soon both Judith and Gideon can't help but wonder... is it possible to be a little bit wicked and still follow your heart?

RRAH's THOUGHTS AND PONDERINGS:

Victoria Alexander is starting on what promises to be another fantastic series. She introduces some new characters, but we also get to visit with some from her past novels, including some of the Effingtons. The premise of the series begins with four bachelors making a wager on who will be the last to get married among them. The last to remain unwed gets a bottle of rare brandy.

Gideon Pearsall, Viscount Warton, knows the time is fast approaching when he must wed and produce an heir. However, the bitter memories from his very brief first marriage, leaves the idea of marrying again quite unappealing. And when he meets the beautiful young widow, Lady Judith Chester, all thoughts of matrimony flee!

Lady Judith Chester had her one and only marriage end tragically, and she does not wish to experience those emotions again. She has had a few discreet affairs since the death of her husband, and when she meets Gideon she has every intention of having an affair with him. Unfortunately, cupid has more in store for these two than just a casual fling. Gideon and Judith must find the courage to reach for a love that, given the chance, could have the power to heal them both.

These two characters are both loyal, intelligent, and witty. And the sensual aspect of their relationship is not too shabby either! This a delightful story, with delightful characters that will leave you anxiously awaiting the next installment in the series. Luckily for the fans of Ms. Alexander there are three more stories coming, the next to be released the first of February. Happy reading!

Deana Monteleone