by Kathy L Wheeler, BEbabes Romance Reviewer

A Lady of Persuasion by Tessa Dare

First line: Sir Tobias Aldridge was contemplating an act of coldblooded murder.

The third book by this brilliant new author is a glittering historical jewel.

The hero is one helluva charmer. The women fall at his feet. Unfortunately, the beauty he was betrothed to ran away only to end up marrying a Privateer of the crown (Book two Surrender of a Siren).

In this story, the Privateer is partnering another young woman at a haut ton ball. Toby (our hero), rather than murdering the Privateer, decides to steal her away, instead. But, ahem, it’s his sister. Even better! He proposes marriage—she accepts, to her brothers’ dismay.

Isabel (our heroine), is very faith driven. Her charity works identify her persona. She sets out to find a marriageable man who will further her charitable efforts. A man with political aspirations to help her become A Lady of Much Influence.

Toby decides he will be that man, or at least pretend until he’s capitulated Isabel to the alter. She is not swayed by the normal means, however. No dice, because the sugar was probably harvested by slaves. Eating little because servants are treated unfairly, she is not turned by flirty phrases, nor she doesn’t understand teasing. Too serious, by far.

Toby is determined to find way into her heart—not by charm. She is certainly a challenge. So he tells her he is running for Parliament. Against an old family friend, no less. But on his wedding day he and the family friend strike a deal for Toby to lose. Of course, Isabel would be none the wiser. Well, you get the picture. It’s a disaster.

I must admit my surprise in Isabel’s character. The underlying reasons behind her devotion to her faith and charity-driven obsessions are subtley drawn, but compelling, all the same. The same with Toby. What could he possibly have to be insecure about when women throw themselves at him? But he is, and in this he reaches our hearts.

The depth and characterization in this and Ms. Dare’s two previous books are just…well—insightful. The individuals are true to form and follow through in all three stories. She does an excellent job with verbal sparring and drawing pictures in your head.

My recommendation is to read all three. You would not have to read them in order, but you will learn to love them all from beginning to end.

Excellent job, Ms. Dare.

For: Readers who love getting to know the characters. Seeing them grow and learn about themselves. – Kathy L. Wheeler

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