A Secret Love by Stephanie Laurens

Goodreads Description:

All of Regency London knows that no Cynster male would ever walk away from a lady in distress...but their protection can come at a tantalizingly high price. And now, Stephanie Laurens has created her boldest Cynster yet--Gabriel--a man who has known the pleasure of many women, but who has given his heart to no one.

She was desperate for his help...

When a mysterious lady, her face hidden by a black veil, begs Gabriel Cynster for his help, he cannot refuse her plea. For despite her disguise, Gabriel finds the woman alluring and he is powerless to deny her. But he exacts payment as only a Cynster would demand: with each piece of information he uncovers, she must pay him--in the form of a kiss.

He was powerlerss to resist...

Lady Alathea Morwellan knows Gabriel is intrigued, but despite the sparks that fly between them, they have never passed a civil moment together. Yet as the stakes get higher, so does Gabriel's desire for payment. And with each overpowering kiss, each passionate embrace, Alathea knows that she will not be able to resist his ultimate seduction...but what will happen when she reveals the truth?

My Rating:

My Review:

Great 5th book in the Cynster Series.  In this Gabriel and Alathea find their way to each other.  They were childhood friends then at around 12 years old they started to feel differently and ever since would be on edge with each other.  Neither understood that it was attraction and love they shared for each other until one season 20 years later!  The mystery of proving the Central East African Gold Company a fraud brings them closer together and adds great action to the story.  I loved Alathea's character, she was mature and strong willed but fragile in a way.  Gabriel was a smart strong willed gentleman and like all Cynster's went after what he wanted and would not take no for an answer!  The romance is hot and written very well.  I didn't think there was too much description like in some novels and I thought the pace and lay out of the story was perfect.  The only reason I gave it a 4.5 out of 5 is because I didn't feel satisfied at the end.  I don't know what it was thought, maybe it was too rushed.  Also I'd have liked to have read a hint to Lucifer's story.  Can't wait to read his story!