Product Description

Anthony Hamilton cannot help it. The way he looks, the way he lives, his past-it all conspires to make him a man men fear, women desire. His name fills gossip circles in a seemingly endless, lurid drama. But he-s never forgotten the only woman he-s ever truly wanted-yet could never have-

Celia Reece knew Anthony well before he forged his scandalous reputation. The young man she remembers spoke kindly to her, made her laugh, and his devilish good looks always quickened her pulse. But Celia-s mother had other designs-designs that didn-t include marriage to Anthony. Now, Celia is widowed, and her mother is intent on finding her a new husband. Refusing to let any obstacle stand in his path this time, Anthony sets out to win Celia-s heart by using the same skills that made him London-s most irresistible rake...

-A skillful blend of scorching sensuality and the tenderness that tempers passion-don-t miss it!--Eloisa James, New York Times bestselling author

-A fast-paced, can-t-put-down romance.--Kat Martin, New York Times bestselling author

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #286550 in Books
• Published on: 2008-06-01
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 352 pages

From Booklist
During her first season in London, Celia Reece won the affection of a number of eligible suitors. Unfortunately, the only man who intrigues her is Anthony Hamilton, England’s most scandalous rake. As far as Celia’s family is concerned, marriage to a notorious rogue is out of the question, and so Celia weds the infinitely more acceptable Lord Andrew Bertram instead. Widowed four years later, she once again runs into Anthony, who is determined to become Celia’s next husband, even if he has to use every one of his rakish skills to convince her to marry him. Beautifully nuanced characters, elegant writing, and a dash of danger are the key ingredients in Linden’s latest expertly fashioned Regency romance. --John Charles

Customer Reviews

wonderful characters
This is the third in a series about the Reece family from this author. Lady Celia Reece is recovering from a disastrous marriage. Her family is concerned about her depression and her mother arranges a house party where her old friends and some eligible men are invited. Anthony Hamilton, Celia's brother's friend from school days is included in the party. Unknown to Celia, Anthony has been interested in her since before her marriage. The characters from the previous books are present, but their presence is natural and not intrusive.

This was a lovely, well-written book. The character development is wonderful - we truly understand Anthony and Celia, their attraction to each other and what makes them the people they are. Even the secondary characters ring true. This is my favorite type of romance novel - the characters and their relationship drive the plot.

My only criticism is that a secondary mystery plot pops up in literally the last couple of chapters. It felt like a last-minute addition, and didn't add to the story. Also, the author muffs British aristocracy titles and modes of address in one case, a nit, but an hour on wikipedia would be enough to understand how it works.

A Rake's Guide to Seduction by Caroline Linden
Fabulous steamy historical romance from Caroline Linden. "A Rake's Guide to Seduction" explores the story of a woman who learns the difference between infatuation and love. The hero is strong, complex, and misunderstood. The heroine grows into a woman who learns her own strength and stands up for and by her man. The plot flows as smooth as aged whiskey, and the ending will put an ear-to-ear grin on your face. Now, I'm off to make sure I have copies of Linden's other books to put on my keeper shelf!

Fun, light historical
One of the best parts about reading A RAKE'S GUIDE TO SEDUCTION were the many parts where Linden had a chance to include a Big Misunderstanding or other ridiculous contrivance and didn't. Instead she delivered a believeable and sweet romance.

Well, that is except for two short and bizarre subplots at the end. Those could have easily been cut because they didn't even further the main plot. They were just there and completely unlike the rest of the book.

What the rest of the book is, is the slow build of a relationship from quasi-friendship to love. Anthony first saw Celia as a woman four years ago, but he was too late: she already agreed to marry Lord Bertram. However, she marries too hastily and she and Bertram's marriage slowly dissolves. Then he dies, leaving her a widow and a shell of her former self.

Celia's mother hosts a party to revive her spirits; David, Celia's brother, invites their mutual friend Anthony. He eventually admits he's still attracted - perhaps in love - and begins to subtly court her.

Despite being known as a rake, Anthony is a decent man who made his fortune on his own, if in a creative manner. He respects Celia and doesn't succumb to the jerk factor present in many alpha-male romance heroes. Celia starts a bit silly, but she matures during her unhappy marriage.

Quick and entertaining, A RAKE'S GUIDE TO SEDUCTION is a fabulous Regency saddled with an awful title.

From In Bed With Books