A Matter of Temptation
by Stacy Reid
Miss Wilhelmina "Mina" Crawford is desperate. Having been ruined in the eyes of society years ago for one foolish, starry-eyed mistake, she spends her days secreted away at her family's crumbling estate, helping her brother manage the land but not able to truly live life the way she's always dreamed. When her brother admits to just how dire their finances have gotten, she takes it upon herself to procure employment...but the only one who will even consider the scandalous idea of a female secretary is the brilliant, ruthless, and infuriating Earl of Creswick.
Simon Loughton, the Earl of Creswick, needs help if he wants to finally pass the reform bill he's been championing for years and secure the vote for England's most vulnerable constituents. Too bad help comes in the form of a woman with breathtaking nerve, fiery red hair, and a sense of humor to match.
Now temptation--disguised as a lovely, clever-mouthed devil--lives and works under Simon's very roof. And Mina finally feels as though she's truly living life to her wildest dreams. But even the most incendiary of kisses can't incinerate Mina's past...or the shocking secret that could ruin them both.
Caroline's Review
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Absolutely loved this story!
"There was something about him that tugged at her senses, the feeling was almost primal and frightening."
When Miss Wilhelmina Crawford's twin brother, Anthony, challenges the formidable Simon Loughton, Earl of Creswick, to a dual to save face, it calls for desperate measures. Her boldness, skill and wit prompts Creswick to offer her a job as his personal secretary - something unheard of before. Mina grabs the opportunity with both hands - not only to alleviate the family coffers but also to alleviate her boredom.
"He was abruptly and unexpectedly certain having Miss Wilhelmina Crawford working under his roof was going to be a mistake."
Simon has a lot on his plate with the reform bill, however, he needs the administrative help, in spite of feeling an undeniable pique of interest at the remarkable Miss Crawford. He's aware of her clouded past, but nothing prepares him for her audacity and how she makes him feel.
"He felt the keen sensation as if he were coming alive for the first time in his life - for a woman who would only be a fleeing presence in his life."
This was a such a FABULOUS read! Mina and Simon were funny, intelligent, and intense together. I loved how Simon, someone known for being aloof and ruthless, lived to indulge Mina and make her dreams come true. I loved his feeling of protectiveness over her, and how he would pretty much burn the world down to keep her safe and happy. Mina was a singular woman. She was sharp, good-natured, and kind-hearted. I loved her zest for life and her joy in the simple things. In spite of her clouded past, she was a woman of integrity and determination. When they were together, there was the wonder of discovery between them, as well as raw sexuality. They were a match made in heaven!
