Helen simply couldn't believe her eyes when, stranded in the snow in the wilds of Cumberland, she found herself confronted by a leopard! But luckily it was a tame one, and its owner, the mysterious Dominic Lyall, was able to offer Helen shelter in his house. Soon, however, the situation turned into a nightmare as she realized that he intended to keep her there, virtually a prisoner, and no one had nay idea where to start searching for her! How could she get away? And as time went by, did she want to get away?
Yet she was only too well aware that if Dominic did decide to let her go it would only be because he wanted to get rid of her for good.
2008年4月23日 星期三
Prelude To Enchantment - by Anne Mather - Harlequin Presents - # 46 - 1974.
Sancha was thrilled with her assignment to interview the famous author, the Conte Cesare Alberto Venturo di Malatesta.
Entering his palazzo was like stepping back into the Renaissance, its poverty-stricken appearance at odds with his success. The Conte himself, a modern, powerful figure was dynamite, as Sancha soon realize. And she seemed to have the same effect on him.
But the truth was Cesare was hard up; he did need to marry money. With the glamorous, fabulously rich Janine Rumien in the picture how could Sancha hope to compete?
Entering his palazzo was like stepping back into the Renaissance, its poverty-stricken appearance at odds with his success. The Conte himself, a modern, powerful figure was dynamite, as Sancha soon realize. And she seemed to have the same effect on him.
But the truth was Cesare was hard up; he did need to marry money. With the glamorous, fabulously rich Janine Rumien in the picture how could Sancha hope to compete?
Sandstorm - by Anne Mather - Harlequin Presents - # 382 - 1980.
She was betrayed by her own emotions!
Abby considered her marriage over. Why couldn't Rachid just accept the fact and give her a divorce?
In the two years since she left Abarein, the Middle East country where Rachid was crown prince, she'd tried to rebuild her life. Now Rachid had come to reclaim her, fiercely opposing divorce, urging her to return.
But the reasons for her leaving were still valid. Nothing had really changed. Except maybe Abby herself. And it was her own traitorous response that finally gave her no choice!
Abby considered her marriage over. Why couldn't Rachid just accept the fact and give her a divorce?
In the two years since she left Abarein, the Middle East country where Rachid was crown prince, she'd tried to rebuild her life. Now Rachid had come to reclaim her, fiercely opposing divorce, urging her to return.
But the reasons for her leaving were still valid. Nothing had really changed. Except maybe Abby herself. And it was her own traitorous response that finally gave her no choice!
Smouldering Flame - by Anne Mather - Harlequin Presents - # 177 - 1977.
Joanna loved Shannon Carne and he loved her, but there were several overwhelming reasons why they should not marry.
“All right, Joanna,” Shannon said harshly. “I love you. But it’s no use. It never was, and it never will be. We’ve had today. Let’s just remember it as a day out of time.”
Joanna stared at him numbly, envisaging the future, bleak without him. She had to find some way to make him change his mind!
“All right, Joanna,” Shannon said harshly. “I love you. But it’s no use. It never was, and it never will be. We’ve had today. Let’s just remember it as a day out of time.”
Joanna stared at him numbly, envisaging the future, bleak without him. She had to find some way to make him change his mind!
Wild Enchantress - by Anne Mather - Harlequin Presents - # 185 - 1977.
Six years ago Catherine Fulton and Jared Royal had met and clashed embarassingly. Now, when her father’s will stipulated Jared as her guardian for the six months prior to her twenty-first birthday, Catherine was no more enthusiastic about the arrangement than he. She went to Barbados reluctantly.
“Why did you bring me here, Jared?” It’s obvious you don’t really want me. Just because you once had a great deal of satisfaction in putting me down, you can’t resist repeating the experiment, can you?
Yet, despite the ever present antagonism, some fascination lingered between them.
“Why did you bring me here, Jared?” It’s obvious you don’t really want me. Just because you once had a great deal of satisfaction in putting me down, you can’t resist repeating the experiment, can you?
Yet, despite the ever present antagonism, some fascination lingered between them.
The Awakening - by Rosemary Carter - Harlequin Presents - # 301 - 1979
Her situation could not have been worse.
After her parent’s death, Robyne Sloan had to fight to keep her family together. Making a living from the dry African soil was a desperate daily struggle.
Then, when she thought that life could get no harder, Dean Mornay decided to foreclose their mortgage. The Sloan children would lose their farm, their home, unless Robyne could make Dean change his mind. But how, Robyne wondered bleakly, could she influence a ruthless businessman like Dean?
She would just have to find a way, no matter how drastic!
After her parent’s death, Robyne Sloan had to fight to keep her family together. Making a living from the dry African soil was a desperate daily struggle.
Then, when she thought that life could get no harder, Dean Mornay decided to foreclose their mortgage. The Sloan children would lose their farm, their home, unless Robyne could make Dean change his mind. But how, Robyne wondered bleakly, could she influence a ruthless businessman like Dean?
She would just have to find a way, no matter how drastic!
Bush Doctor - by Rosemary Carter - Harlequin Presents - # 290 - 1979.
His sudden appearance gave Stacy a shock.
"Andre!" The name was torn from Stacy in an anguished whisper. She had never expected to see him again, least of all here, at a South African bush hospital.
But it was Andre, the man she'd tried so hard to forget. Now all the memories would return to haunt her, all the pain of unrequited love would come flooding back.
It was a love that lay in the past, Stacy told herself firmly. A love that never could have any future. Unless . . . could she dare to hope?
"Andre!" The name was torn from Stacy in an anguished whisper. She had never expected to see him again, least of all here, at a South African bush hospital.
But it was Andre, the man she'd tried so hard to forget. Now all the memories would return to haunt her, all the pain of unrequited love would come flooding back.
It was a love that lay in the past, Stacy told herself firmly. A love that never could have any future. Unless . . . could she dare to hope?
Kelly’s Man - by Rosemary Carter - Harlequin Presents - # 362 - 1980.
Kelly knew she was the one responsible.
Against her better judgment, for her fiancee’s sake, Kelly bribed George Anderson to guide their party up the mountain.
When George was injured, Kelly was prepared to help out with money. But Nicholas Van Mijden, George’s friend and imperious neighbor, had other ideas, like Kelly working at the Anderson’s hotel while Mary Anderson stayed with her husband.
It was fair, Kelly admitted. If only Nicholas wouldn’t persist in seeing her as an incompetent, spoiled, rich man’s daughter. In fact, he seemed determined to prove she was useless.
Against her better judgment, for her fiancee’s sake, Kelly bribed George Anderson to guide their party up the mountain.
When George was injured, Kelly was prepared to help out with money. But Nicholas Van Mijden, George’s friend and imperious neighbor, had other ideas, like Kelly working at the Anderson’s hotel while Mary Anderson stayed with her husband.
It was fair, Kelly admitted. If only Nicholas wouldn’t persist in seeing her as an incompetent, spoiled, rich man’s daughter. In fact, he seemed determined to prove she was useless.
One Wedding Required - by Sharon Kendrick - Harlequin Presents - # 2017 - 1999 - Wanted: One Wedding Dress Series.
Rule number 2: For the perfect wedding . . . set a date!
Amber O’Neill was engaged to her boss, Finn Fitzgerald. Now all she needed to do was agree on a date for the wedding and find the perfect dress.
Ten Finn became aloof and distant: he was pushing Amber away. She wondered whether it was just pre-marriage jitters, or was there something he wasn’t telling her? Either way, Amber wasn’t going to let Finn go. She wanted him to want her, for better, for worse . . . and in his bed!
Amber O’Neill was engaged to her boss, Finn Fitzgerald. Now all she needed to do was agree on a date for the wedding and find the perfect dress.
Ten Finn became aloof and distant: he was pushing Amber away. She wondered whether it was just pre-marriage jitters, or was there something he wasn’t telling her? Either way, Amber wasn’t going to let Finn go. She wanted him to want her, for better, for worse . . . and in his bed!
Possession - by Charlotte Lamb - Harlequin Presents - # 321 - 1979.
Laura should have realized earlier.
Why had it never entered her head? Her grandfather and Dan Harland planning her marriage to Dan Harland!
All her moments of suspicion gelled into the ghastly realization. It was their answer to everything. Keep the firm in the family, and give control to Dan Harland.
Laura felt trapped. Her grandfather meant the world to her, yet could she give up her life in order to prolong his? But it took only a few days in Greece with Dan for Laura to see how easily he could manipulate her mind, and her senses.
Why had it never entered her head? Her grandfather and Dan Harland planning her marriage to Dan Harland!
All her moments of suspicion gelled into the ghastly realization. It was their answer to everything. Keep the firm in the family, and give control to Dan Harland.
Laura felt trapped. Her grandfather meant the world to her, yet could she give up her life in order to prolong his? But it took only a few days in Greece with Dan for Laura to see how easily he could manipulate her mind, and her senses.
Rose-Coloured Love - by Amanda Carpenter - Harlequin Presents - # 991 - 1987.
Why wouldn’t he leave her alone?
Why wouldn’t Ryan Forrester accept the fact that Devan’s writing career was over.
She couldn’t continue to write about something she didn’t understand. It was that simple. Her books were about love, and Devan was a failure at love. She knew that Ryan was a brilliant editor, sensitive and fair.
She didn’t know that he was also a tough, hard-driving man, capable of tracking Devan to her secluded hideout in rural Maine, and staying there until he forced her to begin writing again. And loving again.
Why wouldn’t Ryan Forrester accept the fact that Devan’s writing career was over.
She couldn’t continue to write about something she didn’t understand. It was that simple. Her books were about love, and Devan was a failure at love. She knew that Ryan was a brilliant editor, sensitive and fair.
She didn’t know that he was also a tough, hard-driving man, capable of tracking Devan to her secluded hideout in rural Maine, and staying there until he forced her to begin writing again. And loving again.
An Impossible Dream - by Emma Darcy - Harlequin Presents - # 1536 - 1993.
He was the answer to Dani’s dreams.
Cameron McFarlane was handsome, rich and fairly famous, he was the bestselling author of The Psychology of Sex. More importantly, he needed Dani.
Cameron needed her to cater a dinner party. And Dani agreed, in exchange for his spending Christmas Day with her and her family. With a man like Cameron at her side, surely her family would finally consider her a success.
Cameron certainly seemed to like more than just Dani’s cooking. His kisses excited and confused her. Was he just playing along or was he playing for keeps?
Cameron McFarlane was handsome, rich and fairly famous, he was the bestselling author of The Psychology of Sex. More importantly, he needed Dani.
Cameron needed her to cater a dinner party. And Dani agreed, in exchange for his spending Christmas Day with her and her family. With a man like Cameron at her side, surely her family would finally consider her a success.
Cameron certainly seemed to like more than just Dani’s cooking. His kisses excited and confused her. Was he just playing along or was he playing for keeps?
Bride Of Diamonds - by Emma Darcy - Harlequin Presents - # 1367 - 1991.
This was a contest of power.
Man against woman, woman against man. The most primitive duel of all.
When Laura left her glittering life in Boston to learn more about her father’s past in Australia, she didn’t realize she’d be confronting her own destiny in the arrogant, yet attractive, form of Jared Eastern.
The sizzling awareness that flowed between them could not be denied, yet Jared was highly suspicious of Laura’s motives. “Right at this moment,” he declared. “I’m not sure whether to hate you, or kiss you senseless.
Man against woman, woman against man. The most primitive duel of all.
When Laura left her glittering life in Boston to learn more about her father’s past in Australia, she didn’t realize she’d be confronting her own destiny in the arrogant, yet attractive, form of Jared Eastern.
The sizzling awareness that flowed between them could not be denied, yet Jared was highly suspicious of Laura’s motives. “Right at this moment,” he declared. “I’m not sure whether to hate you, or kiss you senseless.
Heart Of The Outback - by Emma Darcy - Harlequin Presents - # 1519 - 1993 - A Year Down Under Series.
Outback men live by their own rules.
Australian Designer of the Year! Alida Rose should have felt elated with the recognition. She'd worked hard to achieve such success, it was her future.
Gareth Morgan was her past. And yet five years had not diminished the impact of the charismatic man nor the painful memories.
A renewed relationship with Gareth was tempting. But this time Alida vowed she'd show this outback man, she'd be as ruthless with him as he'd been with her.
Australian Designer of the Year! Alida Rose should have felt elated with the recognition. She'd worked hard to achieve such success, it was her future.
Gareth Morgan was her past. And yet five years had not diminished the impact of the charismatic man nor the painful memories.
A renewed relationship with Gareth was tempting. But this time Alida vowed she'd show this outback man, she'd be as ruthless with him as he'd been with her.
One-Woman Crusade - by Emma Darcy - Harlequin Presents - # 1351 - 1991.
Noah Seton! His very name made her angry.
When cool, wealthy businessman Noah Seton took over her stepfather’s company, bubbly Toni Branden became determined to lead the fight against his efficiency drive.
“Hate is inspired by actions. Your actions, Mr. Seton.” she told him! “And I hated you before I ever laid eyes on you.”
And hate it was, even though Noah was dating her beautiful stepsister, Jocelyn. Yet as Toni fought her one-woman crusade, she didn’t realize how easily strong emotions could lead to passion.
When cool, wealthy businessman Noah Seton took over her stepfather’s company, bubbly Toni Branden became determined to lead the fight against his efficiency drive.
“Hate is inspired by actions. Your actions, Mr. Seton.” she told him! “And I hated you before I ever laid eyes on you.”
And hate it was, even though Noah was dating her beautiful stepsister, Jocelyn. Yet as Toni fought her one-woman crusade, she didn’t realize how easily strong emotions could lead to passion.
Tangle Of Torment - by Emma Darcy - Harlequin Presents - # 680 - 1984.
She was marrying the wrong man.
Dan was the kind of man every girl dreamed of, handsome and loving, with all the makings of a good husband and father. And if Ian Drake hadn’t come into her life, Maggie would have married Dan happily.
But Ian had watched her in action, lost in the joy of creating exciting, dynamic ad campaigns. He was the only man she’d ever met who understood her striving ambition, her burning passion for achievement. Theirs was a compelling affinity.
Ian Drake was Maggie’s other half, so why did he resist their obvious attraction?
Dan was the kind of man every girl dreamed of, handsome and loving, with all the makings of a good husband and father. And if Ian Drake hadn’t come into her life, Maggie would have married Dan happily.
But Ian had watched her in action, lost in the joy of creating exciting, dynamic ad campaigns. He was the only man she’d ever met who understood her striving ambition, her burning passion for achievement. Theirs was a compelling affinity.
Ian Drake was Maggie’s other half, so why did he resist their obvious attraction?
Too Strong To Deny - by Emma Darcy - Harlequin Presents - # 1335 - 1991.
As a lawyer, Price could help her.
But Price Domenico was just the kind of complication she didn’t really want.
All her life, Elizabeth had been told she was stupid and now she was quietly determinedly proving everyone wrong. But she’d been accused of something she hadn’t done and though they had started off on the wrong foot, she needed Price.
Elizabeth knew Price understood her battle to clear her name on principle, no matter what it cost her. Though she hadn’t reckoned on it costing her her heart.
But Price Domenico was just the kind of complication she didn’t really want.
All her life, Elizabeth had been told she was stupid and now she was quietly determinedly proving everyone wrong. But she’d been accused of something she hadn’t done and though they had started off on the wrong foot, she needed Price.
Elizabeth knew Price understood her battle to clear her name on principle, no matter what it cost her. Though she hadn’t reckoned on it costing her her heart.
Stranded Heart - by Vanessa Grant - Harlequin Presents - # 1209 - 1989.
How dare he criticize her!
Nicole found it hard enough to raise a teenage boy by herself and eke out an uncertain living as a charter pilot in British Columbia’s Queen Charlotte islands. Dealing with Matthew Kealy, her arrogant, unkempt new neighbor was a bit too much.
Though she soon learned that Matthew was a successful artist, that didn’t make him less of a pain, critical of her son, her abilities as a mother, as a pilot. Still, she shouldn’t let him get to her.
And moreover, she shouldn’t let herself be so terribly aware of his powerful masculinity.
Nicole found it hard enough to raise a teenage boy by herself and eke out an uncertain living as a charter pilot in British Columbia’s Queen Charlotte islands. Dealing with Matthew Kealy, her arrogant, unkempt new neighbor was a bit too much.
Though she soon learned that Matthew was a successful artist, that didn’t make him less of a pain, critical of her son, her abilities as a mother, as a pilot. Still, she shouldn’t let him get to her.
And moreover, she shouldn’t let herself be so terribly aware of his powerful masculinity.
African Assignment - by Carol Gregor - Harlequin Presents - # 1512 - 1992.
Warning: Predatory Male Proceed With Caution.
Africa was the chance of a lifetime for a secretary with a bad case of wanderlust. Frankie O’Shea knew Cal Fenton was desperate, or he would never have hired her as his driver on his latest photographic shoot. Women were strictly an after-hours occupation for Cal, he could do well without those sorts of distractions.
Frankie hoped her cold, commandeering new boss would warm up now that he was in his element. But nothing seemed to penetrate Cal’s tough self-sufficiency; he seemed determined to make things difficult for her. Worse, this clearly wasn’t any ordinary assignment. It was fraught with danger, most of it from the disturbing masculine presence of Cal Fenton.
Africa was the chance of a lifetime for a secretary with a bad case of wanderlust. Frankie O’Shea knew Cal Fenton was desperate, or he would never have hired her as his driver on his latest photographic shoot. Women were strictly an after-hours occupation for Cal, he could do well without those sorts of distractions.
Frankie hoped her cold, commandeering new boss would warm up now that he was in his element. But nothing seemed to penetrate Cal’s tough self-sufficiency; he seemed determined to make things difficult for her. Worse, this clearly wasn’t any ordinary assignment. It was fraught with danger, most of it from the disturbing masculine presence of Cal Fenton.
No Way To Say Goodbye - by Kay Gregory - Harlequin Presents - # 1191 - 1989.
His callousness confounded Roxane.
With cold-blooded abruptness, Gareth Mardon terminated the jobs of most of his Vancouver office employees, including Roxane. Outraged, Roxane refused to admit the fascination she felt for Gareth’s hypnotic masculinity.
When, surprisingly, her ex-boss offered her a new job, she couldn’t accept it. Not with her friends thrown out of work.
Then Gareth walked out of her life, parting with a smoldering kiss that melted her reserve. Roxane was dazed by his farewell. Especially, when she discovered the truth about Gareth.
With cold-blooded abruptness, Gareth Mardon terminated the jobs of most of his Vancouver office employees, including Roxane. Outraged, Roxane refused to admit the fascination she felt for Gareth’s hypnotic masculinity.
When, surprisingly, her ex-boss offered her a new job, she couldn’t accept it. Not with her friends thrown out of work.
Then Gareth walked out of her life, parting with a smoldering kiss that melted her reserve. Roxane was dazed by his farewell. Especially, when she discovered the truth about Gareth.
Man Of Stone - by Frances Roding - Harlequin Presents - # 1163 - 1989.
Could she ever prove her innocence?
After her father’s death, Sara Rodney thought she’d finally be safe at her grandmother’s country home outside London. That was before she was forced to marry Luke Gallagher, almost a total stranger.
Cressy, Sara’s selfish half sister, had filled Luke’s head with lies, and now he believed Sara to be a despicable fortune hunter. There was no way to change his mind.
But Luke’s hatred was only part of the trouble. For despite her efforts to the contrary, Sara found herself falling in love with her new husband.
After her father’s death, Sara Rodney thought she’d finally be safe at her grandmother’s country home outside London. That was before she was forced to marry Luke Gallagher, almost a total stranger.
Cressy, Sara’s selfish half sister, had filled Luke’s head with lies, and now he believed Sara to be a despicable fortune hunter. There was no way to change his mind.
But Luke’s hatred was only part of the trouble. For despite her efforts to the contrary, Sara found herself falling in love with her new husband.
A Law Unto Himself - by Frances Roding - Harlequin Presents - # 1213 - 1989.
She’d been left waiting at the altar.
And when her English godparents offered Francesca an escape from the suffocating pity of the Italian aristocracy of which she was part, she accepted gratefully. Their tranquil Cotswolds home would let her put her life in order.
Then she met their reclusive neighbor, novelist Oliver Newton, a man with a reputation for breaking female hearts. Her attraction to him was sudden, overwhelming and dangerous.
For all the great poise that her upbringing had taught her quickly started to dissolve when she looked into his silvery eyes.
And when her English godparents offered Francesca an escape from the suffocating pity of the Italian aristocracy of which she was part, she accepted gratefully. Their tranquil Cotswolds home would let her put her life in order.
Then she met their reclusive neighbor, novelist Oliver Newton, a man with a reputation for breaking female hearts. Her attraction to him was sudden, overwhelming and dangerous.
For all the great poise that her upbringing had taught her quickly started to dissolve when she looked into his silvery eyes.
Late Harvest - by Yvonne Whittal - Harlequin Presents - # 574 - 1983.
How could her father have made such a will?
“Shall jointly inherit the entire estate on condition they are married within thirty days of my death.”
Kate was incredulous. She hated Rhyno van der Bijl, but by ignoring the conditions, she would lose her beloved home.
“Think of it as a business arrangement,” suggested Rhyno, who also stood to lose his inheritance.
It was only for a year, and Kate never dreamed she would one day wish it was forever, but when Rhyno spoke of plans that did not include her, her world fell apart.
“Shall jointly inherit the entire estate on condition they are married within thirty days of my death.”
Kate was incredulous. She hated Rhyno van der Bijl, but by ignoring the conditions, she would lose her beloved home.
“Think of it as a business arrangement,” suggested Rhyno, who also stood to lose his inheritance.
It was only for a year, and Kate never dreamed she would one day wish it was forever, but when Rhyno spoke of plans that did not include her, her world fell apart.
Quicksands - by Elizabeth Oldfield - Harlequin Presents - # 1077 - 1988.
He looked like a hero, or perhaps a hunter!
When Clemence Harrell’s partner left her to finish their club act alone, Jassim Al Fori immediately assumed the worst. He thought Clemence’s natural friendliness was a plot to trap his younger brother in a scandal, and he acted accordingly.
But even as Clemence tried to prove her innocence she found herself becoming attracted to Jassim, dare she trust him with her secret?
Things could not go on as they were, though. Soon she would have to choose, risk her life in Oman, or risk her heart.
When Clemence Harrell’s partner left her to finish their club act alone, Jassim Al Fori immediately assumed the worst. He thought Clemence’s natural friendliness was a plot to trap his younger brother in a scandal, and he acted accordingly.
But even as Clemence tried to prove her innocence she found herself becoming attracted to Jassim, dare she trust him with her secret?
Things could not go on as they were, though. Soon she would have to choose, risk her life in Oman, or risk her heart.
Sudden Fire - by Elizabeth Oldfield - Harlequin Presents - # 1676 - 1993 - Postcards From Europe Series.
Destination: Portugal.
Attractions: Romantic Fado Music, Endless Sunshine and Vitor d'Arcos.
Vitor d'Arcos's effect on Ashley's senses could be compared to that of an intoxicating, well-aged wine, it was even more powerful now than it had been two years before.
But to lower her guard would jeopardize the secret that must be kept at all costs, that Vitor, not her husband, was the father of Ashley's child.
Attractions: Romantic Fado Music, Endless Sunshine and Vitor d'Arcos.
Vitor d'Arcos's effect on Ashley's senses could be compared to that of an intoxicating, well-aged wine, it was even more powerful now than it had been two years before.
But to lower her guard would jeopardize the secret that must be kept at all costs, that Vitor, not her husband, was the father of Ashley's child.
A Weekend To Remember - by Miranda Lee - Harlequin Presents - # 1855 - 1996 - Affairs To Remember Series.
A little white lie . . .
I’m terribly sorry, Hannah could hear herself saying. I don’t know what came over me. I don’t know what came over me. I simply couldn’t let that coldhearted ambitious lady take you for another ride.
When you lost the last six weeks from your memory, including your whirlwind romance, I though that might be the end of Felicia. But then a nurse at the hospital said that a fiancee had been mentioned and would I please call her.
I pictured Felicia winning you all over again with her looks and her lies, so before I knew it I’d opened my stupid mouth and said I was your fiancee.
I’m terribly sorry, Hannah could hear herself saying. I don’t know what came over me. I don’t know what came over me. I simply couldn’t let that coldhearted ambitious lady take you for another ride.
When you lost the last six weeks from your memory, including your whirlwind romance, I though that might be the end of Felicia. But then a nurse at the hospital said that a fiancee had been mentioned and would I please call her.
I pictured Felicia winning you all over again with her looks and her lies, so before I knew it I’d opened my stupid mouth and said I was your fiancee.
Part-Time Father - by Sharon Kendrick - Harlequin Presents - # 1820 - 1996.
Once wasn’t enough.
Harrison Nash was convinced he only needed to make love with Kimberley once, and she’d be out of his system for good. Kimberley Ryan knew Harrison wasn’t looking for commitment, but she couldn’t help loving him. Then fate took a hand, and the result was Georgia, their adorable baby daughter.
Kimberley was ecstatically happy as the mother of Harrison’s child. But Harrison didn’t want to be just a part-time father! Suddenly he wanted it all: Kimberley, Georgia, and happy ever after.
Harrison Nash was convinced he only needed to make love with Kimberley once, and she’d be out of his system for good. Kimberley Ryan knew Harrison wasn’t looking for commitment, but she couldn’t help loving him. Then fate took a hand, and the result was Georgia, their adorable baby daughter.
Kimberley was ecstatically happy as the mother of Harrison’s child. But Harrison didn’t want to be just a part-time father! Suddenly he wanted it all: Kimberley, Georgia, and happy ever after.
Dishonourable Intent - by Anne Mather - Harlequin Presents - # 1947 - 1998.
He had to protect her from himself.
Life was complicated enough for William Quentin without his ex-wife turning up on his doorstep. He’d been crazy about Francesca, and the agony of her betrayal still haunted him. Will knew he should heed his grandmother’s warnings but he couldn’t turn Francesca away, especially as she was in fear for her life.
Always so in control of her emotions, Francesca’s unexpected vulnerability threatened to topple all of Will’s resistance to her. But what chance was there for them when she had heartlessly demonstrated that her independence meant more to her than bearing his children?
Life was complicated enough for William Quentin without his ex-wife turning up on his doorstep. He’d been crazy about Francesca, and the agony of her betrayal still haunted him. Will knew he should heed his grandmother’s warnings but he couldn’t turn Francesca away, especially as she was in fear for her life.
Always so in control of her emotions, Francesca’s unexpected vulnerability threatened to topple all of Will’s resistance to her. But what chance was there for them when she had heartlessly demonstrated that her independence meant more to her than bearing his children?
Tempting Lucas - by Catherine Spencer - Harlequin Presents - # 1976 - 1998.
Resisting sin with Dr. Flynn.
Lucas Flynn was still a dish, as tempting as he had been eleven years before when Emily had placed her naive teenage self in his bed and let him seduce her.
Those years hadn’t made Lucas any more kindly disposed toward Emily, who longed to tell him about the consequences of their one night stand, and that she’d never stopped wanting him. But this time she wasn’t going to offer herself to him on a plate. If Lucas ever made love to Emily again, it would be because he had come to her!
Lucas Flynn was still a dish, as tempting as he had been eleven years before when Emily had placed her naive teenage self in his bed and let him seduce her.
Those years hadn’t made Lucas any more kindly disposed toward Emily, who longed to tell him about the consequences of their one night stand, and that she’d never stopped wanting him. But this time she wasn’t going to offer herself to him on a plate. If Lucas ever made love to Emily again, it would be because he had come to her!
The Music Of Love - by Kay Gregory - Harlequin Presents - # 1352 - 1991.
Belinda didn’t bother with men.
The failure of her parents’ marriage, and a bad experience in her teens, had taught her that relationships with men were best avoided.
Until the morning when Hal Blake came jogging into her life, and suddenly her love of animals and classical music was not enough to fill her days.
There was something almost lyrical about this handsome, energetic man that made Belinda feel she’d be able to trust him. If only she could forget what she knew had happened in both their pasts.
The failure of her parents’ marriage, and a bad experience in her teens, had taught her that relationships with men were best avoided.
Until the morning when Hal Blake came jogging into her life, and suddenly her love of animals and classical music was not enough to fill her days.
There was something almost lyrical about this handsome, energetic man that made Belinda feel she’d be able to trust him. If only she could forget what she knew had happened in both their pasts.
Progress Of Passion - by Alison Kelly - Harlequin Presents - # 108 - 1999.
A Marriage Reunion?
Vanessa knew her shotgun wedding to Mitch had been a mistake, to be honest, it had been a disaster! So why was she now having so much trouble remembering that she and Mitch were divorced?
Mitch wasn’t helping. All Vanessa wanted to do was stop her daughter making the same mistakes in marriage that she had. But Mitch would keep kissing Vanessa until she began to wonder if it was their divorce that had been a mistake, and they could be husband and wife again!
Vanessa knew her shotgun wedding to Mitch had been a mistake, to be honest, it had been a disaster! So why was she now having so much trouble remembering that she and Mitch were divorced?
Mitch wasn’t helping. All Vanessa wanted to do was stop her daughter making the same mistakes in marriage that she had. But Mitch would keep kissing Vanessa until she began to wonder if it was their divorce that had been a mistake, and they could be husband and wife again!
Getting Even - by Sharon Kendrick - Harlequin Presents - # 1945 - 1998 - Revenge Is Sweet Series..
It was time to even the score!
Geraint Howell-Williams was sure Lola Hennessy had used her womanly charms to make sure of her inheritance, an exclusive house, by seducing another man, someone she barely knew.
Lola was beautiful, so getting close to her was no hardship, and Geraint had reasons of his own for wanting to find out more about this temptress. Seducing her would be most enjoyable . . . a very sweet revenge.
Geraint Howell-Williams was sure Lola Hennessy had used her womanly charms to make sure of her inheritance, an exclusive house, by seducing another man, someone she barely knew.
Lola was beautiful, so getting close to her was no hardship, and Geraint had reasons of his own for wanting to find out more about this temptress. Seducing her would be most enjoyable . . . a very sweet revenge.
The Greek’s Secret Passion - by Sharon Kendrick - Harlequin Presents - # 2345 - 2003 - Greek Tycoons Series.
She was the Greek Tycoon’s secret mistress!
Once upon a time Molly had shared a passionate romance with Dimitri Nicharos on an idyllic Greek island. Now in London over fifteen years later, Molly is shocked to meet her new neighbor, Dimitri!
A single father, Dimitri is still as gorgeous as ever, and it is inevitable that he and Molly should fall into bed together again. But for how long? Dimitri and his daughter are returning to Greece and he’s determined to keep their affair a secret. Only, Molly wants to be more than his mistress, but is he ready and willing?
Once upon a time Molly had shared a passionate romance with Dimitri Nicharos on an idyllic Greek island. Now in London over fifteen years later, Molly is shocked to meet her new neighbor, Dimitri!
A single father, Dimitri is still as gorgeous as ever, and it is inevitable that he and Molly should fall into bed together again. But for how long? Dimitri and his daughter are returning to Greece and he’s determined to keep their affair a secret. Only, Molly wants to be more than his mistress, but is he ready and willing?
Red Feather Love - by Suzanna Lynne - Harlequin Presents - # 88 - 1975.
If young Gillian McBride, flying out to a new life in Swaziland where she was to take up her inheritance of her father’s farm, had any qualms about the future, she had managed to calm them by telling herself that she could rely implicitly on the farm manager, Graham Barry. Graham did indeed turn out to be a tower of strength; he was efficient and helpful, and Gillian found herself relying on him more and more.
But it was something of a shock when Graham confessed that he had fallen in love with her, particularly as Gillian herself had lost no time in falling in love, too, with the lofty Dirk von Breda, who, however, from the first had made his attitude clear: "Precocious kids are not my favorite brand of humanity."
But it was something of a shock when Graham confessed that he had fallen in love with her, particularly as Gillian herself had lost no time in falling in love, too, with the lofty Dirk von Breda, who, however, from the first had made his attitude clear: "Precocious kids are not my favorite brand of humanity."
Almost A Bride - by Maura McGiveny - Harlequin Presents - # 803 - 1985.
First came trust, then love, then betrayal.
A year ago Caroline had almost been a bride, would have been if Philip hadn’t left her standing alone at the back of a small Cornish church waiting for a groom who never showed up.
“When you love someone,” Caro later decided, “you give them power over you.” And she never intended to give another man the power to break her heart, until David came along with his quiet strength and conviction.
“You’re not alone anymore,” he promised her. But Caro was afraid to weave a dream around him and run the risk of being never a bride, never a wife, never a mother.
A year ago Caroline had almost been a bride, would have been if Philip hadn’t left her standing alone at the back of a small Cornish church waiting for a groom who never showed up.
“When you love someone,” Caro later decided, “you give them power over you.” And she never intended to give another man the power to break her heart, until David came along with his quiet strength and conviction.
“You’re not alone anymore,” he promised her. But Caro was afraid to weave a dream around him and run the risk of being never a bride, never a wife, never a mother.
Bachelor In Paradise - by Elizabeth Oldfield - Harlequin Presents - # 964 - 1987.
Erin tried to bury her heart in her work.
When British author Erin Page went to Florida to interview Jago Miles, star of a TV soap opera, she expected to meet a vain celebrity, instead, Jago intrigued her.
In spite of his generous salary the blond actor didn’t own a car or a house. Wednesdays, he disappeared, no one knew where. And from the beginning he declared parts of his life “off limits” to Erin’s questions.
AS she uncovered the truth, Erin was irresistibly attracted to Jago. But, she told herself, emotional involvement would jeopardize her work and her heart.
When British author Erin Page went to Florida to interview Jago Miles, star of a TV soap opera, she expected to meet a vain celebrity, instead, Jago intrigued her.
In spite of his generous salary the blond actor didn’t own a car or a house. Wednesdays, he disappeared, no one knew where. And from the beginning he declared parts of his life “off limits” to Erin’s questions.
AS she uncovered the truth, Erin was irresistibly attracted to Jago. But, she told herself, emotional involvement would jeopardize her work and her heart.
The Bedroom Incident - by Elizabeth Oldfield - Harlequin Presents - # 1994 - 1998.
Incident # 1: The Deception: Kristin Blake is horrified when she realizes that her potential new boss, Matthew Lingard, is the same man she publicly humiliated ten years before. So she has to keep her true identity a secret!
Incident # 2: The Bedroom: Forced to share a bedroom one night, Kristin and Matthew struggle to keep the arrangement strictly business, but it proves impossible.
Incident # 3: The Engagement: And the morning after, their night of passion is discovered. There's only one solution to avoid a scandal: pretend to be engaged.
Incident # 2: The Bedroom: Forced to share a bedroom one night, Kristin and Matthew struggle to keep the arrangement strictly business, but it proves impossible.
Incident # 3: The Engagement: And the morning after, their night of passion is discovered. There's only one solution to avoid a scandal: pretend to be engaged.
Beware Of Married Men - by Elizabeth Oldfield - Harlequin Presents - # 1012 - 1987.
She refused to be “the other woman.”
Jorja Reynolds liked her boss, Daniel Lecomber, and her job as his personal assistant in the Lecomber real-estate firm. She also adored his small son Toby.
But when her relationship with Dan developed into more than friendship, Jorja panicked. For Dan was married. The fact that his marriage was loveless and he wanted a divorce didn’t change a thing.
Jorja unwittingly had been in this situation before and she had no intention of experiencing that guilt again. Even, she told herself, if it meant losing Daniel.
Jorja Reynolds liked her boss, Daniel Lecomber, and her job as his personal assistant in the Lecomber real-estate firm. She also adored his small son Toby.
But when her relationship with Dan developed into more than friendship, Jorja panicked. For Dan was married. The fact that his marriage was loveless and he wanted a divorce didn’t change a thing.
Jorja unwittingly had been in this situation before and she had no intention of experiencing that guilt again. Even, she told herself, if it meant losing Daniel.
Bodycheck - by Elizabeth Oldfield - Harlequin Presents - # 948 - 1987.
Right man, wrong time!
As a busy model, Nellie was furious when her overprotective boyfriend, Lewis hired a bodyguard to protect her in Paris. Try as she might to dodge the man, and the attraction sparking between them, Jakc Rea stuck like glue.
In no time they were in love. Yet Nellie put off telling Lewis. She knew the delay supported her “good-time girl” label from the gossip columns. But she wasn’t dangling two men on the line, fishing for the best offer.
In a week her motives would be crystal clear. But could such a fragile new love survive the wait?
As a busy model, Nellie was furious when her overprotective boyfriend, Lewis hired a bodyguard to protect her in Paris. Try as she might to dodge the man, and the attraction sparking between them, Jakc Rea stuck like glue.
In no time they were in love. Yet Nellie put off telling Lewis. She knew the delay supported her “good-time girl” label from the gossip columns. But she wasn’t dangling two men on the line, fishing for the best offer.
In a week her motives would be crystal clear. But could such a fragile new love survive the wait?
Dark Victory - by Elizabeth Oldfield - Harlequin Presents - # 1800 - 1996 - Dangerous Liaisons Series.
Flirting With Danger.
Cheska Rider thought that she’d fully recovered from her one night stand with Lawson. She was wrong.
Lawson Giordano liked a woman who had her own thoughts, her own identity and ultimately the ability to make him jealous. In short, he liked the woman that Cheska had become.
Cheska had decided that the time was right to pay Lawson back for walking out on her. It would be interesting to see just how much provocation Lawson would take!
Cheska Rider thought that she’d fully recovered from her one night stand with Lawson. She was wrong.
Lawson Giordano liked a woman who had her own thoughts, her own identity and ultimately the ability to make him jealous. In short, he liked the woman that Cheska had become.
Cheska had decided that the time was right to pay Lawson back for walking out on her. It would be interesting to see just how much provocation Lawson would take!
Designed To Annoy - by Elizabeth Oldfield - Harlequin Presents - # 1636 - 1993 - Postcards From Europe Series.
Destination: Germany.
Attractions: The Rhine, The Black Forest, and Diether von Lossingen.
When Sophie politely forced her way into powerful industrialist Diether von Lossingern's office and insisted he assume his rightful role as father of the baby boy in her arms, their head on collision left emotions raw, tempers flaring and bodies aching with white hot desire.
Attractions: The Rhine, The Black Forest, and Diether von Lossingen.
When Sophie politely forced her way into powerful industrialist Diether von Lossingern's office and insisted he assume his rightful role as father of the baby boy in her arms, their head on collision left emotions raw, tempers flaring and bodies aching with white hot desire.
Fast And Loose - by Elizabeth Oldfield - Harlequin Presents - # 1831 - 1996 - This Time Forever Series.
Seduction, second time around!
Darcy Weston knew everything there was to know about humiliation. Seven years ago she’d made a pass at heartthrob Keir Robards in his hotel bedroom. And he’d been tempted but had turned her down fast.
Now Darcy was going through a repeat performance, on a Broadway stage, playing Keir’s leading lady and lover. To top it all, Keir seemed intent on beginning rehearsals back in his bedroom, where else? Well, Darcy had been here before, but this time she was going to get her own back.
Darcy Weston knew everything there was to know about humiliation. Seven years ago she’d made a pass at heartthrob Keir Robards in his hotel bedroom. And he’d been tempted but had turned her down fast.
Now Darcy was going through a repeat performance, on a Broadway stage, playing Keir’s leading lady and lover. To top it all, Keir seemed intent on beginning rehearsals back in his bedroom, where else? Well, Darcy had been here before, but this time she was going to get her own back.
Looking After Dad - by Elizabeth Oldfield - Harlequin Presents - # 1879 - 1997 - From Here To Paternity Series.
Single dad requires protection!
When Lorcan Hunter is threatened by someone opposed to his latest business project, and leggy blonde Jess Pallister presents herself as the person to protect him, Lorcan is more than a little skeptical! But when his little girl is also threatened, Lorcan is forced to trust Jess.
Bright and beautiful Jess soon becomes part of the family, and before he knows it, Lorcan is ready to offer her a permanent assignment so she can watch over them both for life.
When Lorcan Hunter is threatened by someone opposed to his latest business project, and leggy blonde Jess Pallister presents herself as the person to protect him, Lorcan is more than a little skeptical! But when his little girl is also threatened, Lorcan is forced to trust Jess.
Bright and beautiful Jess soon becomes part of the family, and before he knows it, Lorcan is ready to offer her a permanent assignment so she can watch over them both for life.
Final Surrender - by Elizabeth Oldfield - Harlequin Presents - # 1747 - 1995 - Too Hot To Handle Series.
The heat is on.
Sorcha Riordan and Rui de Braganca were complete strangers, but they both inherited half of the same business.
Sorcha had fifty-one percent and she knew nothing about running a company. Rui de Braganca did, and he had been left forty-nine percent. What he lacked in shares, however, he more than made up for in sheer male magnetism. It was a potentially explosive situation. And Sorcha was finding it increasingly difficult to keep a cool head.
Sorcha Riordan and Rui de Braganca were complete strangers, but they both inherited half of the same business.
Sorcha had fifty-one percent and she knew nothing about running a company. Rui de Braganca did, and he had been left forty-nine percent. What he lacked in shares, however, he more than made up for in sheer male magnetism. It was a potentially explosive situation. And Sorcha was finding it increasingly difficult to keep a cool head.
Flawed Hero - by Elizabeth Oldfield - Harlequin Presents - # 1395 - 1991.
It was a bit of a culture shock.
Especially to Abby, a lifelong landlubber, who now found herself running a cruise business in Granada. Of course it was only temporary, just until she helped her aunt sort out a few problems she was having with the locals.
Problem number one was Josh Donner, the wickedly attractive owner of the only rival firm on the island.
What Abby hadn't bargained for was the devastating effect Josh would have on her. Could she trust a word he said?
Especially to Abby, a lifelong landlubber, who now found herself running a cruise business in Granada. Of course it was only temporary, just until she helped her aunt sort out a few problems she was having with the locals.
Problem number one was Josh Donner, the wickedly attractive owner of the only rival firm on the island.
What Abby hadn't bargained for was the devastating effect Josh would have on her. Could she trust a word he said?
Living Dangerously - by Elizabeth Oldfield - Harlequin Presents - # 1101 - 1988.
She was sure he’d listen to reason.
Claudia couldn’t let her brother risk his life just to prove something to their macho father. She just had to step in and cancel the contract he’d signed to be a movie stuntman.
But Harry Kavanagh, stuntman par excellence, was uncooperative. He claimed a property managed stunt need not be dangerous, and that a deal was a deal.
"Relax," Harry told Claudia accusing her of having an inflated sense of responsibility. If she wanted to continue this discussion, he said, she’d have to follow the crew to Madeira. Sot that’s just what Claudia did.
Claudia couldn’t let her brother risk his life just to prove something to their macho father. She just had to step in and cancel the contract he’d signed to be a movie stuntman.
But Harry Kavanagh, stuntman par excellence, was uncooperative. He claimed a property managed stunt need not be dangerous, and that a deal was a deal.
"Relax," Harry told Claudia accusing her of having an inflated sense of responsibility. If she wanted to continue this discussion, he said, she’d have to follow the crew to Madeira. Sot that’s just what Claudia did.
Love Gamble - by Elizabeth Oldfield - Harlequin Presents - # 1365 - 1991.
Roxanne wasn’t taking any more risks.
The men who’d influenced her life so far had both been gamblers, causing her misery and pain.
First, her irresponsible father who’d brought the family to the verge of bankruptcy; then, the husband who’d left her with a pile of debts and a young child to care for.
If she fell in love again, it would be with a safe, sober, respectable member of society. The irrepressible Guy Slaney hardly fit that description, which was a pity, because when Roxanne renewed her acquaintance with him, he was easily the most attractive man around.
The men who’d influenced her life so far had both been gamblers, causing her misery and pain.
First, her irresponsible father who’d brought the family to the verge of bankruptcy; then, the husband who’d left her with a pile of debts and a young child to care for.
If she fell in love again, it would be with a safe, sober, respectable member of society. The irrepressible Guy Slaney hardly fit that description, which was a pity, because when Roxanne renewed her acquaintance with him, he was easily the most attractive man around.
Take It Or Leave It - by Elizabeth Oldfield - Harlequin Presents - # 676 - 1984.
No man was going to threaten her career.
Zee had just broken her engagement. Marriage to a man who paid only lip service to sexual equality would block her advancement in hotel management.
So when Lorn Jensen, a new executive at the hotel, turned Zee?s job and emotions upside down, she stubbornly resisted her attraction to him.
But Lorn was a man who got what he wanted, and he wanted Zee. He laid siege to her resolve while she desperately tried to reconcile her ambition with a woman?s desire for love.
Zee had just broken her engagement. Marriage to a man who paid only lip service to sexual equality would block her advancement in hotel management.
So when Lorn Jensen, a new executive at the hotel, turned Zee?s job and emotions upside down, she stubbornly resisted her attraction to him.
But Lorn was a man who got what he wanted, and he wanted Zee. He laid siege to her resolve while she desperately tried to reconcile her ambition with a woman?s desire for love.
The Price Of Passion - by Elizabeth Oldfield - Harlequin Presents - # 1333 - 1991..
She was supremely confident in business.
Gabrielle had built up a successful business empire single handedly. She positively thrived on challenge and stress.
Personal affairs were another matter. Handling Saul O'Connor when he resurfaced in her life after an eight year gap was a different ball game entirely. Whenever Saul was around she seemed incapable of handling anything. Her usual composure deserted her.
"The past is gone, Gabby," he told her. But it wasn't that easy for her to forget what he had once meant to her and still did.
Gabrielle had built up a successful business empire single handedly. She positively thrived on challenge and stress.
Personal affairs were another matter. Handling Saul O'Connor when he resurfaced in her life after an eight year gap was a different ball game entirely. Whenever Saul was around she seemed incapable of handling anything. Her usual composure deserted her.
"The past is gone, Gabby," he told her. But it wasn't that easy for her to forget what he had once meant to her and still did.
Too Far, Too Fast - by Elizabeth Oldfield - Harlequin Presents - # 758 - 1985.
He was her first, her only love.
Hogan was so strong, so confident and committed that Leah hadn't realized tennis would always be his mistress. Then Wimbledon had loomed closer, and Hogan's victories became cliff-hangers.
But in the end everyone lost. Leah, as his publicist had been blamed, sacrificed and ultimately banished to Hong Kong. Hogan's accident had forced him out of competition, and Leah's boss had lost his star investment.
Now Hogan was on the comeback trail. Once again he was a publicist's dream, a red-hot commodity. But as far as Leah was concerned, Hogan was still too hot to handle.
Hogan was so strong, so confident and committed that Leah hadn't realized tennis would always be his mistress. Then Wimbledon had loomed closer, and Hogan's victories became cliff-hangers.
But in the end everyone lost. Leah, as his publicist had been blamed, sacrificed and ultimately banished to Hong Kong. Hogan's accident had forced him out of competition, and Leah's boss had lost his star investment.
Now Hogan was on the comeback trail. Once again he was a publicist's dream, a red-hot commodity. But as far as Leah was concerned, Hogan was still too hot to handle.
Touch And Go - by Elizabeth Oldfield - Harlequin Presents - # 1030 - 1987.
Their love deserved a second chance.
Karis Buchanan, owner of a health club in London, was a self-sufficient woman who made her own decisions. Seth Mauroy, a business executive in Thailand, was accustomed to taking charge. Small wonder their romance foundered in spite of a strong bond of physical attraction.
But months later on a visit to Bangkok, when Karis discovered that her stepfather had been kidnapped, she was willing to accept Seth’s help.
Together they set out to find Karis’s stepfather. On the way she discovered some startling facts about the kidnapping, and about her relationship with Seth.
Karis Buchanan, owner of a health club in London, was a self-sufficient woman who made her own decisions. Seth Mauroy, a business executive in Thailand, was accustomed to taking charge. Small wonder their romance foundered in spite of a strong bond of physical attraction.
But months later on a visit to Bangkok, when Karis discovered that her stepfather had been kidnapped, she was willing to accept Seth’s help.
Together they set out to find Karis’s stepfather. On the way she discovered some startling facts about the kidnapping, and about her relationship with Seth.
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