2008 RITA Winner for Best Historical Romance

If Phaedra Blair did not possess both style and beauty, the world would consider her merely strange. Since nature had blessed her with these qualities, society thought her almost interesting.

He first appears beneath her prison window as her savior—a sinfully attractive man whose charm and connections have ensured her release from an unjust arrest. But author and publisher Phaedra Blair quickly learns that the price of her "freedom" is to be virtually bound to her irresistible rescuer.

For Elliot Rothwell did not come solely on a mission of goodwill. He came to extract a promise that Phaedra won’t publish a slanderous manuscript that would destroy his family’s name, and he’s not above bribery, threats, or bedding her to get his way. And with each erotic encounter raising the stakes between them, Elliot discovers he’s ever more reluctant to lose this sensual game. . .or the unusual, provocative woman who is every bit his match.

"Hunter scores again with well-rounded and appealing characters, as well as a riveting story." —Booklist

"She has an inherent understanding of the drama in life that enables her to craft intelligent characters and strong plotlines into powerfully emotional romances. You’ll simply fall in love with this one."  —Romantic Times  4 ½ stars