| Dagny Ravenhurst is a naturalist on a quest to obtain a rare orchid in 1828 Madagascar. In doing so she falls out of the tree she has climbed into a lagoon on the plantation of Hungarian Count Tomaj Balashazy, an exiled pirate captain and harbormaster. Struck by Dagny, Tomaj wants to see her again, but she informs him that she is already seeing someone secretly. Dagny indeed is the concubine of a rich man named Paul Boneaux. She supports herself, her two brothers, Salvatore and Ezekiel and her research by being Paul's mistress. It isn't long before Dagny finds herself falling for Tomaj much to Paul's dismay. Not only are Paul and Tomaj battling over the island's economic, but now are fighting for the heart of Dagny. Paul is building a palace for his other mistress, Malagasy Queen Ranavalona and she is not happy about her lover's attention being taken away by Dagny. Seeking to put an end to this lover's knot may cost all of them more than they ever thought possible.
This is one hot, explosive read! It is a wonderfully crafted historical read where one really feels as if they are in Madagascar with the characters. The scenes are very descriptive and once you start this novel you won't want to put it down. Ms. Mercury crafts a fascinating relationship between the characters of Tomaj, Dagny, Paul and Queen Ranavalona. The chemistry between Tomaj and Dagny is felt from the moment they meet. It is understandable why Paul is less than pleased when he finds out who Dagny's new lover is and why he is determined to put an end to it. Queen Ranavalona's demands add fire to the middle of this complex love circle. The erotic scenes between the characters are tastefully written and occur often. This is a great book for anyone who likes their books full of well-written characters, a plot that keeps you on the edge of your seat and spicy, sizzling love scenes.
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Reviewer: Tj |