Jewel
-
- $11.99
Publisher Description
A proposal she had no choice but to accept . . .
Though Eli Grayson is one of the most handsome, charming, and intelligent men in Grayson Grove, no one will take a chance on a confirmed bachelor. Unwilling to give up his dreams, Eli convinces his friend Jewel to pose as his wife. Their masquerade is to last just one night . . . but when word gets out, Eli and Jewel must tie the knot to save his career—and her reputation.
Became a love she never expected . . .
Angry at being forced to turn her life upside down, Jewel never imagined that a white-hot passion would consume her once she and Eli became husband and wife. Sharing a bed has turned their prim friendship into a sensuous love affair . . . but when a woman from Eli's past returns to stir up trouble, he and Jewel will learn just how far they'll go to protect the precious gem of their newfound passion.
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY
This winning historical romance lays the groundwork for an exciting series. In post Civil War New Orleans, New Yorker Valinda Lacy strives to teach freedmen, but both her work and her safety are imperiled by the racial hostility still plaguing the nation. When business owner Drake LeVeq saves Valinda from racist attackers, he's immediately taken by the spunky beauty. Both were born free, and they make it their life's mission to assist ex-slaves. Valinda, whose fianc is in France on business, is only in New Orleans temporarily, but the chemistry between her and the hunky Drake is as hot as the spicy foods they share. When Valinda's attackers come looking for revenge, Drake keeps her under his protection, and when she's evicted, Drake's mother takes her in, making it even harder for them to keep their distance. Finally Valinda breaks her engagement to stay in New Orleans, and then she has to deal with her overbearing father, who believes women have no business being on their own. Meanwhile, Drake gets involved in taking dangerous vengeance for the death of a friend. Jenkins (the Blessings series) addresses sensitive, serious issues in a tactful, realistic manner, and she brilliantly balances the real sorrows of history with a shimmering romance. This is a grand tale of finding happiness in hard times.
