"A wickedly delightful anthology!"

These four historical stories will have you squirming in your seat and looking for your significant other once you finish these naughty tales.

The first story in this collection comes from the reigning queen of erotic romance (in my most humble opinion), Bertrice Small. The Awakening tells the story of Marguerite de Thierry Abbott. Marguerite's aunt Renee bargains with the devil himself during the revolution in order to give Marguerite a chance to live. Renee now owns a very upscale brothel and since Marguerite's husband has died and his wicked older son has thrown Marguerite and her daughter to the wolves, Renee takes her in much against her better wishes. Renee wants something better for Marguerite and through a quirk of fate may just get her way!

The second story is Out of the Storm by Susan Johnson. This tells the story of Lulu, Lady Darlington. One afternoon she takes refuge from a storm in the gamekeeper's hut on the edge of her estate. She gets comfortable when she hears footsteps outside. The most handsome man she's ever seen asks for refuge as his automobile has broken down. Then what follows is the most satisfying romantic interlude either has ever known. The next day they each leave not knowing who the other really is. When they do find out who each is, they will be very surprised!

Enchanted by Nikki Donovan is the third story in this collection and is my personal favorite. It is a new take on the old 'Beauty and the Beast' fairy tale with a bit of an erotic twist. The knight of Lord Blackhurst, who is known as the Beast Lord, kidnaps Esmay while she is visiting her secret spot. He brings her to Blackhurst but what is the Beast Lord going to do with her? Will he kill her when he is finished ravishing her or will Esmay surprise him with her feelings?

Liz Madison's With His Promise tells the story of brave Victoria Woodville who refuses to give in to the assault on her home. At the last minute when all seems to be lost, Stephen de Burgh and his men come to their rescue. He devises a plan whereby she will marry him if he finds out who her traitor is and she agrees but she wants to also know about passion. Stephen vows to teach Victoria about passion also. They give each other until the end of the month. Will Stephen teach Victoria all about passion and will he find her traitor?

I enjoyed reading all four of these erotic stories. Each was different in it's own way and all equally satisfying as a story. This is one anthology that is not to be missed.

Reviewed by Kathy Boswell
Posted June 13, 2002