Devon’s review of Your Scandalous Ways by Loretta Chase
Historical Romance released by Avon 27 May 08

A courtesan is the heroine of this book. An honest to goodness professional mistress, a harlot who accepts jewelry, money and other gifts in return for the pleasure of her company. Intriguing. I know it’s been done before, but I’ve never read any of them, and I was curious to see what kind of HEA she would be given. I was more concerned that the hero was a spy, a rather tedious and overdone type of historical hero, IMHO. But it’s Loretta Chase, she of the wonderful characterization, matchless dialogue, and dazzling battles of wits! If anyone could pull off a “the whore and the spy” scenario, it’s Chase.

And she does. I loved Francesca Bonnard. I downright admired her. She weathered cruelty and betrayal, and survived what would have seemed an untenable situation for the day. What could a divorcee, branded an adulteress and tainted by other family scandal do? Become a governess, or companion? Not likely. Francesca took the best path available to her, and pulled it off admirably. She is now one of the most sought after women in Europe, wealthy in her own right, and able to do as she pleases. Plus, it burns her ex-husband’s ass to see her flourish. Really, the whole courtesan thing doesn’t seem like a bad gig. But I digress. Francesca is exotically attractive, intelligent, and witty. She can be a bit calculating, but I don’t see how one wouldn’t be, given her past and profession. But she is also vulnerable underneath it all.

James Cordier was a great hero for her. In the great rake vs. rogue debate, James is definitely a rogue. A younger son (neither rich or powerful enough to merit Francesca’s favor), James is no stranger to doing questionable things for money. Or for king and country, depending on how you look at it. These are two highly experienced, world-weary folks, and the sparks fly as soon as they meet. Neither wants to want the other, but they are perfect for each other. They play off of each other hilariously and sexily. One thing I enjoy about Loretta Chase’s heroes is that you always get the sense that they admire the whole woman. Even when James thinks it’s just lust, it’s Francesca’s wit and personality that seduce him as much as her looks.

James comes to Venice to steal some important letters from Francesca. There are others who want those letters too, and don’t mind hurting Francesca to boot. There is just enough plot to keep things moving along nicely. There are a number of entertaining secondary characters as well: Francesca’s buddy Giulietta, the dorky Prince Lurenze, the Comte de Magny. But this is pretty much the James and Francesca show. They meet, flirt, argue, and fall inexorably in love. Their encounters are lively, amusing, and sensual. The fact that they’ve both been through so much, only makes the romance that much more romantic.

Your Scandalous Ways is a satisfying, chemistry-filled, character driven romance. While I must admit that I don’t think I’ll re-read it as often as I do Lord of Scoundrels or Mr. Impossible, Chase fans won’t be disappointed. Nor will any historical reader who enjoys great dialogue and vivid characters. Definitely worth a read.

Grade: B+

     From the back cover:

     James Cordier is all blue blood and entirely dangerous. He’s a master of disguise, a brilliant thief, a first-class lover—all for King and Country—and, by gad, he’s so weary of it. His last mission is to “acquire” a packet of incriminating letters from one notorious woman. Then he can return to London and meet sweet-natured heiresses—not adventuresses and fallen women.

     Francesca Bonnard has weathered heartbreak, scorn, and scandal. She’s independent, happy, and definitely fallen; and she’s learned that “gentlemen” are more trouble than they’re worth. She can also see that her wildly attractive new neighbor is bad news.

     But as bad as James is, there are others far worse also searching for Francesca’s letters. And suddenly nothing is simple—especially the nearly incendiary chemistry between the two most jaded, sinful souls in Europe. And just as suddenly, risking everything may be worth the prize.

     Read an excerpt here.