"Start of new Bastion Club series is another winner for this author."

Leonora Carling, orphaned at a young age, resides with her scholarly, absentminded uncle in London. She runs his household without difficulty until a very persistent realtor pesters her to sell their home. After declining his many offers, Leonora's home is broken into twice. At the sale of her neighbor's home, Leonora wonders if the new owners are behind the incidents.

Tristan Wemyss, the Earl of Trentham, unexpectedly comes into his title with the demise of his cousin. A former English spy, Tristan is not looking forward to his new responsibilities, especially the hordes of older female relatives who depend upon the generosity of the new earl. He bemoans his fate with six fellow ex-agents, who also need to marry and beget heirs. In an attempt to establish a safe refuge from hounding matrons and their unmarried daughters, they begin the Bastion Club.

After purchasing a house suitable for their club, Tristan encounters his new neighbor, Leonora, who's intent upon interrogating him. Leonora's troubles interest Tristan, and he quickly discovers himself in lust with this virtuous lady. Leonora would make the perfect wife, but she quickly dissuades him. She only desires an interlude, and she refuses to give up her independence.

Following her highly popular Cynster stories, Ms. Laurens starts a new series - Bastion Club - centered on seven of London's most eligible bachelors. Personally, I would've liked more emphasis on the mystery plot. But fans of this author won't be disappointed with THE LADY CHOSEN, as strong characters populate a very sensuous love story.

Reviewed by Suan Wilson
Courtesy Old Book Barn Gazette
Posted August 19, 2003

Summary

Tristan Wemyss, Earl of Trentham, never expected he'd need to wed within a year or forfeit his inheritance. But he is not one to bow to the matchmaking mamas of the ton. No, he will marry a lady of his own choosing. And the lady he chooses is the enchanting neighbor living with her family next door. Miss Leonora Carling has beauty, spirit and passion; unfortunately, matrimony is the last thing on her mind ... To Leonora, Tristan's kisses are oh-so-tempting, but once bitten, forever shy, she has determinedly turned her back on marriage. But Tristan is a seasoned campaigner who will not accept defeat. And when a mysterious man attempts to scare Leonora and her family from their home, Tristan realizes he's been given the perfect excuse to offer his services -- as protector, seducer and, ultimately, husband.