Julian Dane finds his reputation as England's premier rake undermined by the innocent beauty of Lady Claudia Whitney, who has grown from the child he once knew into a passionate and headstrong young lady.

2003-04-25 My favourite from the Rogues of Regent Street trilogy

"The Ruthless Charmer" is book two of this powerful historical trilogy set in early 19th century London. Julian Dane, Earl of Kettering is a dashing rake, one of the four infamous Rogues of Regent Street. When one of their childhood friends dies under tragic circumstances it has a powerful impact on the lives of the remaining three aristocrats. Julian was always the most handsome and the most charming of them. He could get any woman he wanted except Lady Claudia Whitney who resisted him with all her will. Claudia, a proud and strong-headed young woman has known him since childhood and followed his scandalous reputation in society with disdain. She is attracted to him like all the other ladies but she vows never to give in to his "ruthless charm". They are both deeply emotional and passionate people and must follow the rules of society.They are found in a compromising situation and they must marry. Claudia is devastated and she struggles with her contradictory emotions for Julian. Julian isn't happy either. He has her as his wife but he thinks all she feels for him is anger and hate. Julian's heart is a mysterious brick wall and he guards it very well. Unfortunately there are other serious and scandalous issues they have to face within their marriage, family and society and happiness seems impossible. Ms. London proves again her exceptional talent to write from the heart and captivate the enchanted reader by the beauty of this wonderful story. Watching the leading couple's very human sufferings and emotional healing is a joy and it warms the heart.I also love the way important social issues regarding women and the law are showed and discussed in this book. The author has done her background research and she fully developed her bright and colourful characters. The love scenes are beautifully described, emotional and passionate.
THE RUTHLESS CHARMER is a worthy sequel of "The Dangerous Gentleman" and in my opinion even more enjoyable. It is one of the most heartwarming and heartwrenching historical romances I have read recently. I look forward to continuing the trilogy and warmly recommend it to the sophisticated reader.