MISTRESS TO THE TYCOON

Author: Nicola Marsh ISBN: 9780373820719 3/2008 CONTEMPORARY Publisher: HARLEQUIN/MILLS & BOON

Never mix business with pleasure. That is Cooper Vance's unbreakable rule—and he is living proof that it works! He's successful, sexy, totally single, and that's the way he likes it. Until he walks into an art gallery that he means to buy.and is confronted by a beautiful, smart-mouthed woman who's determined to get him naked! Artist Ariel Wallace needs a life model—fast—to finish the portrait that might save her gallery. Now the big-shot bachelor has to make a choice. Can he break all his own rules to make the deal of his life?

RRAH's THOUGHTS AND PONDERINGS:

MISTRESS TO THE TYCOON by Nicola Marsh is a great sizzling romance from beginning to end. Gallery owner Ariel Wallace has promised her aunt that she will keep the gallery afloat, one way or another. If that includes painting nudes, then so be it. But when Cooper Vance, a property developer, walks into the studio, she's not certain she can go through with the plan. Ariel brews tea while Cooper undresses. Thus, the two embark on a journey that has its share of paintable moments.

I thought Ariel and Cooper were a perfect match, despite their worlds being so dissimilar. Beneath the surface of the artist and below the money belt they were just two people who deserve love. I especially liked the way Ariel's emotions were a source for her painting. I could see the brushstrokes on canvas as she worked through her issues with Cooper and the gallery. And Cooper, despite his repeatedly telling himself that his connection to Ariel was only business, became more endearing with each kiss.

MISTRESS TO THE TYCOON is a story that shows that sometimes money and art mix beautifully.

Kay James