In Love With a Wicked Man by Liz Carlyle

Historical Romance

What Goodreads Says:

What does it matter if Kate, Lady d'Allenay, has absolutely no marriage prospects? She has a castle to tend, an estate to run, and a sister to watch over, which means she is never, ever reckless. Until an accident brings a handsome, virile stranger to Bellecombe Castle, and Kate finds herself tempted to surrender to her houseguest's wicked kisses.

Disowned by his aristocratic family, Lord Edward Quartermaine has turned his gifted mind to ruthless survival. Feared and vilified as proprietor of London's most notorious gaming salon, he now struggles to regain his memory, certain of only one thing: he wants all Kate is offering—and more.

But when Edward's memory returns, he and Kate realize how much they have wagered on a scandalous passion that could be her ruin, but perhaps his salvation."

I like Liz Carlyle’s writing and story telling and she did not disappoint me with In Love With a Wicked Man.

The Trope:  Kate’s horse jumps a stone wall and causes Edward to fall and hit his head when he pulls up so they do not collide.  When Edward wakes up he does not know who he is.

The Characters: Kate is the titleholder at Bellecombe Castle.  She is strong, efficient, busy and never expects to marry.  Edward is a second son who was turned off at a very early age.  He is attracted to Kate but even though he has not memory of who he is he feels he is not worthy of her. Add to the mix the man Kate refused to marry returning, Kate’s sister, and Kate’s flighty Mother.  Both the main and side characters are very well developed.

The Plot:  As in most journeys to an HEA there has to be a problem.  Here it is Edward’s loss of memory, Kate’s old betrothed returning to pressure her to reconsider and marry him, and Edward regaining his memory.  Sub-plots include Kate’s sister’s desire to marry to local parson, and Kate’s mother’s secrets being revealed. 

All of this is mixed together to make a very enjoyable read. 

Avon published In Love With aWicked Man by Liz Carlyle in 2013.