Judith James

Libertine's Kiss (Rakes and Rogues of the Restoration) Judith James 1st edition

"Fueled by sizzling sensuality and sharp wit, James? refreshingly different historical deftly re-creates the glittering, colorful court of Charles II while also delivering an unforgettable love story." ~John Charles Booklist starred review ?Every once in a great while, there are books I love to the point of wanting everybody I know to go out and buy a copy. Libertine?s Kiss is one of those rare books. This angsty historical is heartrendingly beautiful featuring beautiful language and a fantastic setting with a smart heroine and a deeply tortured, flawed hero. Judith James juggles poetry, Restoration court culture, and fairytale references with an almost perfect sense of timing, and the result is a world that springs vividly to life. Rather than simplifying the historical details of the day, the author weaves their many threads into her story, letting readers see her world in its many layers of light and dark just as her characters would have. The result is a story that is sweeping and epic... I find myself wanting to compare it to something, but there is really nothing out there quite like this.? ~ Lynn Spenser All About Romance. Nominated as Best British Isles Historical by Romantic Times, Libertine?s Kiss, the first book in the Rakes and Rogues of the Restoration series features a hero based on John Wilmot, the notorious libertine, poet, and friend of King Charles II. Abandoned by his cavalier father at a young age, William de Veres grew up knowing precious little happiness. But William has put the past firmly behind him and as a friend of the king, military hero and noted rake, he rises swiftly in the ranks of the hedonistic Restoration court. Though not before he is forced to seek shelter from a charming young puritan woman. The Civil war has cost the once high spirited Elizabeth Walters her best friend and her father, leaving her unprotected and alone. She flees an unwanted marriage, seeking safe haven, but what she finds there is something she never expected. Can a promise made in the past help two childhood friends find each other and themselves? Can a debauched court poet and notorious libertine convince the wary Elizabeth he is capable of love? "Historical details, poetic quotations and fictional characters based on real individuals blend perfectly in Libertine's Kiss. William and Elizabeth's story is compelling, sexy as can be and expertly told... Libertine's Kiss is everything a historical romance should be and more. Don't miss this one! ~Joyce Greenfield, ReaderToReader Winner of IPPY Gold for the critically acclaimed Broken Wing and author of Highland Rebel, a Barnes@Noble book of the year, award winning author Judith James? Rakes and Rogues of the Restoration series transports you to the thrilling days of highwaymen, cavaliers, courtiers, and spies. Rich with history and sizzling with passion, these are love stories you won?t soon forget! Don't miss the other books in this series Soldier of Fortune (The King's Courtesan) The Highwayman September 2014