Sunday Book Review: Scoundrel's Kiss

Recently I had the opportunity thanks to author Carrie Lofty of reading an advanced copy of her new historical romance Scoundrel's Kiss published by Kensington Books. Normally I don't review historical romances on Scandalous Women but I was intrigued by the description of the book. Set in 13th century Spain, the heroine Ada is quite a Scandalous Woman for her time.

From the back cover:


Turning his back on his old life as a rogue, Gavriel de Marqueda has joined a monastic order in Spain and taken a vow of chastity. Before he becomes a monk, he must pass one final test: help a woman who has lost her way. But when he lays eyes on Ada of Keyworth, he is tempted beyond measure by her sultry beauty and dangerous curves. . .

Far from her home in England, Ada has been battling inner demons for more than a year. When she discovers that her only friend has abandoned her, she has no choice but to grudgingly accept Gavriel's help. But Ada is not fooled. Though Gavriel wears the robes of a monk, Ada sees that he is a virile man who looks at her with a hunger that matches her own—one that begs to be satisfied again and again. . .

Set in 13th century Spain, Scoundrel's Kiss is a perfect blend of historical fiction and romance. First off, the setting. There aren't many romances set in Medieval Spain and I don't understand why. The fight between the Spanish and the Moors for control of the country would seem to be the perfect backdrop and Scoundrel's Kiss is certainly proof of just how gripping the conflict can be. The sights, the sounds and the smells of Medieval Spain are ably depicted. The reader feels as if they are there. But what makes this book so special are the characters. Ada and Gavriel are both flawed individuals with secrets that torment them. I don't think I've ever seen two characters quite like this beffore. Ada is stubborn, strong, smart, snarky, and compassionate with the ability to use a dagger if necessary. And highly educated at a time, when most men and women were not literate. She's more than a match for Gavriel who is desperate to atone for the sins that he committed in his previous life before he joins the Order. What Lofty does so brilliantly in this book is to bring these two unlikely people together, and slowly have them fall in love, despite their better judgement. Ada and Gavriel earn their happy ending.

Lofty has also with a few deft keystrokes of her computer, created a compelling cast of secondary characters to support Ada and Gavriel. Blanca, Fernan and Jacob, and two memorable villains Pacheco and Joaquin de Silva, add depth to her novel. Just when you think you know who these characters are, Lofty reveals another layer to their characters. It's been a long time since I was sad to see a historical romance end, but I wasn't quite ready to leave the world of Scoundrel's Kiss.  I will definitely be seeking out a copy of her first book, What A Scoundrel Wants, and I look forward to reading future historical romances by Carrie Lofty.

For history geeks like me, Lofty also includes an afterword, where she discusses the history behind the book and what liberties she took. She also provides a list of resources on her web-site which is manna for someone like me.

Verdict: Highly Recommended/Very steamy