"...today's most skillful writer of intelligent historical romance."  

The Duke of Ithorne might be a rake in some respects, but he is every inch a duke. He takes his immense responsibilities seriously, and also his place at the heart of political and court power -- a place already taken by the Marquess of Rothgar.

He values his escape, however, his alter-ego Captain Rose of the Black Swan, sailing out of Dover on coastal trading voyages, and occasionally on missions for the Crown. It's as Captain Rose that he meets an unusual young woman -- one who threatens all his plans.

When Arabella Barstowe is kidnapped, she believes her life and virtue are forfeit-until she's rescued by the notorious rogue Captain Rose. Bella never expects to see him again. But years later she learns the wicked truth behind her abduction, and she seeks out the only man who can help her take revenge.

What she doesn't know is that Captain Rose is just a disguise for the formidable Duke of Ithorne, who is intrigued to hear from the mysterious woman from his past. Their lives are soon entangled by danger and a growing forbidden passion. 

To read an excerpt, click HERE. 

Jo Beverley, née Mary Josephine Dunn (born September 22, 1947 in Lancashire, England) is a prolific British-Canadian writer of popular historical romance novels. Her works are regarded as well researched, filled with historical details and peopled by communities of interlinked characters, stretching the boundaries of the historical romantic fiction genre. They have been translated into several languages and she has been given several awards.