AWAITING THE FIRE

Author: Donna Lea Simpson ISBN: 0425217612 9/2007 PARANORMAL/HISTORICAL Publisher: BERKLEY
Time Period: 1795 England (Georgian)

Headstrong and independent. Countess Charlotte von Wolfram has no intention of accepting the betrothal her family arranged with Simeon St. Ange, Earl of Wesmorlyn. Their first encounter in a London ballroom confirmed it—how could such a cold, priggish man ever understand her family's wild nature? The failure of their meeting stings the Earl as deeply as Charlotte’s beauty alarms him. Wes has worked too long at redeeming the family name to ally himself with a girl of erratic character. But, as Charlotte searches for her half-sister’s English mother, he feels compelled to follow her out of the city, discovering that her passion and impetuousness stir him beyond reason—and may put them all in grave danger...

RRAH's THOUGHTS AND PONDERINGS:

AWAITING THE FIRE by Donna Lea Simpson is a fascinating blend of suspense, mystery and romance. Set in England in the year 1795, it is a Gothic romance filled with fiery passion, strong characters and a captivating plot. It tells the story of Countess Charlotte von Wolfram and her betrothed, Simeon St. Ange, Earl of Wesmorlyn. From the moment they meet, they clash and sparks fly.

Simeon, who is expecting an obedient and quiet bride, instead finds Charlotte's stubborn and independent behavior embarrassing. Charlotte correctly describes Simeon as stiff, cold-hearted and arrogant. She has no intention of going through with the marriage agreement. They would only make each other miserable if they married. Simeon, though, cannot deny the overwhelming attraction he feels for Charlotte.

Charlotte quickly sets aside all her thoughts of marriage to begin her search for her step-sister's mother. This leads her on a dangerous and intriguing adventure where she is used in a plot by Simeon's enemy. Since Simeon's pride will not allow him to break off their engagement, he quickly follows Charlotte's trail. Time spent together allows their passion to blossom and grow, but soon Simeon finds himself trying desperately to save them both from his enemy. This involves some breath-taking action and edge-of-your-seat excitement. As secrets are revealed, the differences between Charlotte and Simeon grow even stronger. I began to fear that their attraction would not be enough to overcome their problems. I could only hope for the best.

Beautifully written, AWAITING THE FIRE by Donna Lea Simpson is a creative and highly imaginative tale that combines a Regency romance with paranormal suspense. I was held captive while I awaited the outcome of Charlotte and Simeon's tempestuous affair. Magic, shape-shifters, and great action intertwine to make this a definite keeper that is sure to be enjoyed by many.

Anita Haskell