Cassandra Winter was born to wealth. Reilly despises the lifestyles of the rich, but he can't deny his attraction to Cassandra. Cassie has just returned from Europe, buying items for the store she recently inherited. She discovers a multimillion dollar necklace in one of the drawers, thinking it is the answer to her problems. Instead, it puts her life in danger.

Cassie and Reilly are both strong characters. He was burned by an old girlfriend, and Cassie feels no man has wanted her for anything other than her money. Cassie's mother Margaret is interesting. Then there's Willard Bancroft, an old family friend with obvious designs on Cassie. His parents are truly unpleasant examples of the wealthy upper class. Cassie's best friend and assistant at Van Winter Treasures has a criminal record and the police check her out as bad things start happening. Reilly's somewhat estranged brother Rann plays a part, as does a vacant cottage on Nantucket Island. The supporting cast is nicely drawn.

There's a lot of romantic skirmishing as Cassie and Reilly try to understand themselves and each other. Christyne Butler has thrown in a few red herrings and a highly successful twist. The solution to the mystery is satisfying and not at all easy to guess. And the development of the romance is a joy.

Overall rating:
Sensuality rating: Very sensual

Reviewer: Lynn Bushey
November 19, 2007