London, 1852

Fionna Hawkes is keeper of several secrets, the most sensational of which is that she is F.J. Sparrow, the bestselling author of Gothic novels. Her tales are brimming with paranormal activity and sexual tension between the hero and heroine, and they are all the rage in London. Adding to their popularity is the mystery surrounding their author. Nobody knows who F. J. Sparrow really is, and Fionna intends to keep it that way. The people of London would surely be scandalized to discover a woman writing these dark, tantalizing tales, and if they should ever learn of Fionna’s other important secret, her livelihood would be ruined.

Maintaining her secrets thus far has proven easy for Fionna, who is somewhat reclusive by nature. During the day she tends her quiet bookshop, and at night she strolls the streets, letting the darkness inspire her imagination. However, a startling encounter with a stranger one night is about to threaten Fionna’s carefully constructed life. Lord Aidan McBride is a handsome rogue, and for some reason, he seems intent on intruding on her life, as does somebody else. At times, Fionna is almost certain someone is watching her, and it is beginning to unnerve her. Fionna is tempted to let her guard down and turn to Aidan, but that would mean risking her secrets as well as her heart.

From their first combative meeting, Aidan is intrigued by the enigmatic Fionna. He is sure she is hiding something and trying to convince her to share her secrets is a delightful pastime. That is, until someone begins to threaten Fionna. Now Aidan is determined to protect the woman who has quickly managed to steal her way into his heart.

THE SEDUCTION OF AN UNKNOWN LADY is a wonderful romance wrapped around a suspenseful mystery. Neat plotting and irresistible characters compel the reader to quickly turn the pages and follow Fionna and Aidan’s captivating story, which is a delight on so many levels. It’s quite refreshing for once to find a heroine who is the one with the dark secrets. Fionna's intelligence and independence make her a very likable character and one, perhaps, to relate to, for even a plucky gal like Fionna longs to be “rescued” every now and then by a handsome hero. And Aidan is just the man for the task. Strong, capable, and charming, Aidan is immensely appealing, and like Fionna, he has hidden depths. While she struggles with her burdens, he is haunted by memories of a military mission that went awry when he was serving in the Punjab.

As the story progresses, Aidan and Fionna both learn that love has great healing power. Their romance easily tugs on the heartstrings while still delivering heady passion, which is helped along by the high level of tension in the story emanating from the danger surrounding Fionna. The author does a fine job of adding twists to the mystery and building the suspense until the final action-packed moments in the tale when all secrets are revealed.

Ms. James consistently delivers top quality romances that are filled with original stories and endearing characters; I highly recommend THE SEDUCTION OF AN UNKNOWN LADY.

Sandra Brill