By Royal Demand

Part of the Royal House of Illyria series, filled with sensual passion, deceit, betrayal and revenge.

When Sara Milton’s eyes meet those of the man who has been watching her, she falls instantly and hopelessly in love. She willingly submits to his will, even agreeing to marry him until he accuses her of theft.

Gabe Considine, the Grand Duke of Illyria, is a billionaire with a ruthless drive to succeed at everything, including relationships.

The background is of an ancient European kingdom, in a place where the people feel safe and secure. They demand that the offspring of their ancient rulers return after a savage civil war. When his family’s priceless heirloom disappears from the safe, Gabe blames Sara. When a damning photo arrives anonymously, he also believes she has betrayed his pride. He makes plans to seduce the hiding place of the heirloom, and the truth out of Sara, by keeping her at his remote castle. When seduction does not work, only making his ties to her deeper, Gabe begins to realize love does not go away very easily.

Ms. Donald has written yet another sensual romance, with two strong willed lovers. The characters are interesting, and a good foil for the Alpha male, Gabe. The love scenes are well written, with good descriptive prose that does not jerk the reader out of the story. The plot flows well and keeps moving forward with careful thoughts and dialogue. The setting seems to bring out the primitive male instincts, as they capitulate, falling into each others arms.

The action scenes were easy to follow and the conflict was a good motivational tool. The stories pace was full of energy, with lots of emotional depth. The story was fresh and the mythical ancestor was an interesting touch, making it different. I was sometimes surprised by the choices the characters made, but the theme stayed constant. The ending was exciting and very satisfactory for the reader, as they were stripped of the sophisticated veneer and driven only by need.

August 2006