CORDERO'S FORCED BRIDE

Author: Kate Walker ISBN: 9780373127993 2/2009 CONTEMPORARY Publisher: HARLEQUIN

Taken in payment into his bed! Alexa Montague is mortified! She's had to call off her sister's wedding, and now the ruthless, arrogant groom, Santos Cordero, is demanding shy ugly duckling Alexa take her sister's place! The Montagues have stolen his money and his convenient bride, so Santos will enjoy taking Alexa instead. For Santos does not—cannot—love. But his body burns for Alexa as it has for no other woman before. He'll keep her captive in his bed until she's begging to be his….

RRAH's THOUGHTS AND PONDERINGS:

Family ties, obligations and stereotypes are all brought front and center in Kate Walker’s new romance, CORDERO’S FORCED BRIDE.

When Alexa’s sister skips out on her wedding, she is forced to confront the wealthy bridegroom-to-be. Santos is angered that his plans have gone awry; this marriage of convenience would have brought his money some social status. While Natalie was his first choice of the Montague women, Alexa, even with her less dazzling appearance, will suit his needs. Unfortunately for him, Alexa wants more than an arranged marriage, and doesn’t give in to his demands as swiftly as most do.

Well written and engaging, CORDERO’S FORCED BRIDE points out very clearly that control and love are two very separate issues. It also shows that even among those in the limelight, simple lessons like that aren’t always easy to learn. Watching Santos struggle to overcome his preconceived notions about love and life, and the privileges afforded him, was highly entertaining. A fast, fun read!

Kay James