Dangerous Desires explores the regency era of 1810, and the social demands that keep two lovers from consummating a love that cannot be denied! Dominic is experienced with the games lovers play, and he taunts Arlie by traipsing various women in and out of his bedroom, in an effort to not only thwart his desire for her, but prove to her she doesn't interest him, hoping in conclusion to dissuade her from a relationship with him. I certainly raised a fist in victory when Arlie gave Dominic a run for his money. He deserved every suitor in London on his doorstep, salivating over the beautiful Arlie, because his tactics were cruel and demeaning! Arlie displayed great pride, and stubborn determination while adjusting to her new life, and she gave Dominic a good lesson in what's good for the goose, is good for the gander! This was no whiny lady of leisure, and in the process of the book she matures, with well written, fluid pacing. Dominic was a reluctant participant in his desire for Arlie, but when the gates of his heart flung open, he was possessive and simply adorable in his jealousy over her many suitors. His lovemaking defines the word treasured, and while there was a time or two I wanted to shake him for being so insistently against marriage, he was irrepressible in his quest to do the proper thing for Arlie's benefit. A lovely story, of social restrictions, spirit and feisty resolve, are what you'll find yourself absorbed in when you read Dangerous Desires!
Reviewed in March 2003 by Connie
The place is England and the year is 1810. Sitting in the hallway of Rochford Manor, Arlie Whitman nervously awaits a meeting with her new guardian, Dominic Santrell, the Earl of Rochford. The beautiful, impoverished daughter of a fishing boat captain is uncertain of her reception, after all, she has no money and no noble blood, yet her fate lies in the hands of a wealthy and mouthwateringly handsome rakehell.
At the ripe age of 33, Dominic has no plans to settle down. He enjoys the privledges of the titled rich and his reputation as a scoundrel is a well earned legacy from his randy father. So, when fetching young Arlie stands before him he's at a loss to explain the impulse that has him setting her up in high style, polishing and preparing her to make her entrance into society where her golden good looks should earn her a wealthy husband.
Although the story starts a bit slow, it kicks into second gear when Dominic finally lets Arlie know he wants her. Her dilemma is a familiar one but not for long as they quickly become lovers. And here's where the story veers into more interesting territory. Dominic struggles to accept the idea that she will marry someone else some day and leave him. Her engagement to another man stings, but not enough to entice him to offer her marriage. Eventually, Arlie grows to dislike living a double life and flees to the Dowager Rochford's house. Her affair with Dominic appears to be over until he comes for her again. Love or lust?-proves too strong, and she surrenders her pride, allowing him to set her up in a house, publicly as his mistress. It takes Dominic a little longer to learn what love has to teach him. He must confront his fears of the past before he's ready to move forward at Arlie's side.
Readers looking for romance will find a well-traveled road in DANGEROUS DESIRES. Erotica fans will savor competent sex scenes that will leave them within they'd been doubled in number and uninhibited relish.
Annabel for WORD ON ROMANCE 3/03
At the death of her father, Arlie Whitman is placed under the care of a notorious rake, Dominic Santrell. Dominic has vowed never to marry, and yet the idea of Arlie with another man tears him up. For Arlie, marriage is the only option. As much as she loves and desires Dominic, she knows he cannot make her his wife. However, the more they realize their passion for one another, the more they find their choices and predicament dangerous in the confines of society.
Once again, Julia Templeton has delivered a delightful story. Her talent for bringing forth the emotion in her characters is amazing, and I found myself teary-eyed as the characters were faced with difficult challenges and choices. Dominic was a man you wanted to hate at times, and yet, with the love of Arlie, you couldn't help but want love him just as much as she did. Every man deserves the love of a woman like Arlie.
I highly recommend this book. The passion and emotion weaved throughout is so engaging that anyone who loves a good tale of hard choices, sacrifice, and love will not be disappointed.
Danica Favorite-McDonald
I enjoyed reading this story very much. The plot and characters were interesting and the love scenes were very sensual. The heroine was strong and independent, not a fragile flower at all. The hero was sexy, possessive and a little tortured, just the way I like them! The story was very well written and I was immersed in the storyline from page one.
Sara Andrade for Sensual Romance
Dangerous Desires is a fun romp through Regency England. Ms. Templeton has created characters that are both believable and likable. Arlie's independent nature and Dominic's struggle to do the right thing will keep you laughing out loud at times, but also has the powerful emotions to bring a tear to your eye. The descriptions of both settings and actions are rich enough to ensure you will have a detailed visual of everything in this tale. There is a potential for a sequel that I hope to see fulfilled in the future. I will definitely have my eye out for another release by Ms. Templeton.
Nicole La Folle for Timeless Tales
