Midnight's Wild Passion by Anna Campbell

Title: Midnight's Wild Passion by Anna Campbell

• Classification: Adult Fiction
• Genre: Historical Romance
• Format: Mass Market Paperback, 400 pages
• Publisher: Avon (April 26, 2011)
• ISBN-10: 0061684309
• ISBN-13: 978-0061684302

Antonia Smith (formerly Lady Antonia Hilliard) is no stranger to scandal. 10 years ago, at age 17, she fell from grace when she attempted to elope. Disinherited by her father, he abandoned her leaving her to find her own way. Things may have been different if the man she attempted to elope with hadn't already been married. She had no clue, neither did anyone else.

Antonia is now known as the dragon, because of the fierce way she protects her charge, Miss Cassandra Demarest. She is determined that scandal will not touch Cassandra for two reasons. One, she is indebted to Cassandra's father for taking her in, and two, because she and Cassandra are related (cousins).

If Nicholas Challoner (Lord Ranelaw) has his way, however, Cassandra will be ruined. He is determined to make the saying 'what goes around comes around' come true in this instance. Years ago Godfrey Demarest, Cassandra's father, seduced Nicholas' sister and got her with child. The only problem with his plan is Antonia. He never suspected the woman who dressed so severely could attract him, but he finds himself drawn to her and sees beneath the disguise she wears.

I found this a very fun read. I loved watching Nicholas turn from a notorious rake that you can't help disliking, to someone you can't help loving. The transformation took some time and showed the various layers to Nicholas' character. He's fiercely loyal to those he loves, but very hesitant and careful to delve out that trust. I'd liken this book to Beauty and the Beast with a twist. In this version, the Beast is hidden under a beautiful facade and bad temperment, and Beauty is hidden under a drab, dowdy facade. So the big question is how did the book get it's name? My guess is from the fact that the first time the pair gets together for a night of passion it's midnight. Thus, Midnight's Wild Passion.

I gave this one 4 out of 5 roses.