HIS DARK AND DANGEROUS WAYS

Author: Edith Layton ISBN: 9780061253638 6/2008 HISTORICAL Publisher: AVON
Time Period: Regency

Simon Atwood, Lord Granger, once gave all for his country—and paid the price. Now, his handsome face haunted by a secret sorrow, Simon has undertaken a mission far closer to home, but no less perilous. And though he hesitates to risk her safety, he must seek the help of Jane Chatham, an enchanting private dance teacher with the right connections. Jane is suspicious of every man's intentions, even those of a gentleman like Simon Atwood. After all, she knows nothing of the enigmatic nobleman, and has no reason to believe his seductive promises. But even this resourceful, quick-witted beauty finds it almost impossible to resist Simon's deliciously dark and dangerous ways.

RRAH's THOUGHTS AND PONDERINGS:

I found HIS DARK AND DANGEROUS WAYS to be a very charming read that had me laughing and shaking my head at the things that Jane gets herself into, without even trying! Jane is a good girl just trying to make a living, but things that are completely out of her control keep happening to challenge her and make her life downright miserable! 

Simon Atwood has a job for the beautiful little dance instructor, one that pays well and can keep her comfortable with food on the table for months to come.  But Jane doesn't know if she wants to get involved with him and his schemes, and yet at the same time she can't seem to tell him no.  The sound of his voice and the stability that he can offer her are just too good to let go of.  So she agrees numerous times (she keeps quitting, ha ha) to undertake the job Simon has given her, while trying to keep a roof over her head and food on the table. 

Edith Layton writes a lovely romance in this book.  While a bit on the chaste side, the romance blossoms beautifully and not only do we get to see the romance form, we get to see a friendship develop—which always makes for the best romance!  There was great development of the characters and their relationship with each other and with the other people in their lives, and I really enjoyed that aspect of the book. 

HIS DARK AND DANGEROUS WAYS is a very interesting, well written book and Edith Layton lovers will rejoice over this newest offering!

Kristal Gorman