Most Popular Books by Mary Jo Putney

A Desperate Lord... As rebel, soldier, hero, and spy, Kenneth Wilding had never known defeat. But nothing can save his heritage when he returns from the wars to an empty title and a ravaged estate. Nothing—until a stranger offers a devil’s bargain: financial salvation in return for Kenneth’s special subversive skills. Reluctantly Kenneth enters the household of the greatest artist in England to unmask a terrible crime. Instead, he discovers something infinitely more dangerous: a tantalizing new way of life and an irresistible woman. Everything he has always wanted—and can never have. A Scandalous Lady... Her reputation ruined by a disastrous elopement, tempestuous Rebecca Seaton withdraws to her attic studio and buries herself in her painting. Then Kenneth Wilding sweeps into her life with his pirate’s face and poet’s soul. Warily they slide into a duel of desire that brings both searing risks and shattering fulfillment. But Kenneth’s secret mission comes between them, unleashing a danger that threatens Rebecca’s life even as passion sweeps them into a river of fire that transforms their very souls… "Mary Jo Putney once again sweeps readers into a story that captures and holds their hearts, introducing old friends and bringing us a new hero and heroine. She brilliantly captures the intricacies, mores, manners and wit of the era with panache, and with her special gift for story telling that brings readers great joy." —Romantic Times "River of Fire is intense and emotional, at times dark, but never depressing. Putney has done wonders at revealing the soul, creative insight, temperament, and world of visual artists. The novel so inspired me that I, not a visual artist, was moved to try to put my emotions on paper with color and form via a visual medium--and it was exhilarating. That''s how exquisite River of Fire is." — Under the Covers Book Reviews "River of Fire delivers more than enough drama and romance to entertain historical romance readers and reinforce Mary Jo Putney''s reputation as one of the best." —The Romance Reader "In this Regency romance, Putney offers a strong romantic relationship, good writing and memorable characters, and a portrayal of the London art world filled with jealousy and passion." —Publishers Weekly The Fallen Angels series: Book 1: Thunder & Roses Book 2: Dancing on the Wind Book 3: Petals in the Storm Book 4: Angel Rogue Book 5: Shattered Rainbows Book 6: River of Fire Book 7: One Perfect Rose

Sparks fly in the page-turning new read from mistress of the Regency genre and historical romance legend, Mary Jo Putney. Will a disgraced former soldier and a beautiful brazen woman determined to regain custody of her son from her devious former husband make the perfect match…even as they are shunned by the London ton? “Enthralling…Putney again proves why she’s a star of the genre.” —Publishers Weekly The romantic Rogues Redeemed series features soldiers, spies—and the special redemption only love can bring . . . A man who has lost his honor has nothing . . . London, 1816. As a Royal Navy officer, Lucas Mandeville, Lord Foxton, has fought his share of battles on the high seas, followed by long years of imprisonment. But on this night, he’d rather be on the burning deck of a ship than in a ballroom, where it is just a matter of time before someone challenges him because of what happened on the Continent. A woman who has lost her reputation is nothing . . . When dark-haired beauty Kendra Douglas arrives, a whisper of scandal ripples through the ton. The disgraced divorcee’s entrance is an act of daring. Which is exactly why Lucas asks her to dance . . . A couple who stands together has everything . . . Unexpectedly, Lucas offers Kendra his aid in finding the evidence to regain her good name—and her beloved young son. Together they investigate the wicked conspiracy that destroyed her life, and in the midst of danger, find a deep love that will redeem them both—if only they can live long enough to build a future together. “An intense, dramatic love story…a thoroughly enjoyable read.” —All About Romance “Impeccable.” —Library Journal STARRED REVIEW

A lord yearning for adventure and a lonely woman longing for a home... The daughter of a Scottish father and a Chinese mother, Troth Montgomery grew up in Macao fluent in the language and culture of both parents, but her father''s sudden death condemned her to a shadowy life as an interpreter in Canton. Then Kyle Renbourne, viscount and adventurer, discovers her true identity and persuades her to be his guide for a dangerous journey into the heart of the Celestial Kingdom. For Kyle, Troth is an enchanting combination of strength and wisdom unlike any woman he''s ever met. As they travel together, attraction flares into a searing passion that ends when Kyle is captured and condemned to death. After a desperate prison cell marriage, Troth promises to carry news of his fate back to his family. Believing him dead, Troth makes the long journey to England, arriving in bitter winter at the estate of Kyle’s brother. Though accepted as bride and widow, she is haunted by the memory of her dashing husband and the brief, forbidden love they shared as she struggles to adjust to her new life. Then the past reaches out to Troth, bringing passion, despair, and a danger that has followed her halfway around the world. In the wild hills of Scotland she must draw on her unique heritage to save all she holds dear—and find the love and home she has always dreamed of. “Smoothly integrated references to the ancient practices of tai chi, feng shui, and wing chun add interest and authenticity to this highly sensual, emotionally involving romance, which also addresses a number of women''s and ethnic issues still relevant today.” —Library Journal “How does Ms. Putney create so many unique characters as protagonists? Troth is learned in Eastern and Western studies and is adept in martial arts, but she remains human with all the insecurities of someone who seems to fit nowhere. Yet Kyle is equally complex and fascinating as a man who has lost one great love and is seeking something to fill his empty places. How they interact and what their lives hold in store for them make for a superb love story.” —Romance Reviews Today ufeffThe Bride Trilogy The Wild Child, #1 The China Bride, #2 The Bartered Bride, #3 Uncommon Vows (A medieval prequel to the Bride Trilogy)

Five holiday stories set in Victorian England or America that reflect the old-fashioned romantic charm of this popular era. This collection features tales by Patricia Gaffney, Bettina Krahn, Edith Layton, Mary Jo Putney, and Patricia Rice.

With her enchanting romance One Perfect Rose, Mary Jo Putney earned her rightful place on bestseller lists and "keeper" shelves everywhere. Her lush historical settings, bewitching characters, and unique passion for the beauty of nature transport readers to a place as close to the heart as secret dreams. Now, in her glorious new novel, The Wild Child, Putney creates a breathtaking love story that awakens all the senses, inviting a magical world of wonders in a magnificent English garden. Dominic Renbourne has been bribed to take his twin brother Kyle''s place at Warfield Manor, where he is to pay gentlemanly court to Lady Meriel Grahame, the extravagantly wealthy heiress Kyle intends to marry. The deception need only take a few weeks and no one will be the wiser, especially the strange Lady Meriel who is whispered to be . . . mad. The last thing Dominic expects when he arrives is to be entranced by a silent woman whose ethereal beauty is as stunning as her mystical relationship to the intoxicating flowers and trees that surround her. Until now, Meriel has kept her distance from society, spending her days at one with the earth and safe from the nightmare that nearly destroyed her as a child. She is content to live alone, but suddenly this handsome intruder begins to inspire dreams of life beyond her sanctuary. He senses her restlessness, her awakening desire, and the truth that she is much more than she seems. Theirs is an extraordinary courtship. Without words, Meriel teaches Dominic to appreciate the natural splendors of her isolated world. While Dominic''s sense of duty barely restrains his longing for his brother''s future bride, Meriel''s untamed spirit proves more powerful than Dominic can resist. But will Meriel forgive his deceit once she learns he is not Kyle? Moreover, will their love be able to save them both from the treachery that still secretly shadows Meriel? And will their passion endure the rift that will divide two brothers? Told with Mary Jo Putney''s incomparable intelligence and grace, The Wild Child is an unforgettable tale about the infinite possibilities of love.

*Named one of the year''s Top 5 Romances by Library Journal* *Romantic Times award for Best Historical Paranormal Romance* Laird of an ancient, powerful Scottish clan, Duncan Macrae is committed to ending the ceaseless strife between Scotland and England. But he also has other, secret powers-those of a Guardian, humans with mystical abilities to control nature''s forces and see into the hearts of others. And from the moment he encounters the young and independent English widow Gwyneth Owens, his fiery spirit is irrevocably drawn to claim her as his own-a passion that will not only set his loyalty to his land against his sworn Guardian vows, but will also threaten everything he cherishes most. Though Gwynne''s father was a Guardian, she believes that she has inherited only her mother''s beauty, not her father''s power. Then one kiss from the dangerously alluring Laird of the Macraes ignites a hunger that shakes her to her soul-and reveals visions of a looming catastrophe that threatens England and Scotland both. Only by becoming Duncan''s wife, and ultimately betraying the man she loves, can she avert disaster. As destiny and two mighty nations clash, Gwynne and Duncan must push their powers and passions beyond the most forbidden limits if they are to save their love-and secure the future.

Broken Dreams and Second Chances... Honed by danger and haunted by the past, Lord Michael Kenyon finds it easy to risk his life for his country’s sake. But in the shadow of Waterloo, he faces a far more dangerous threat—the loss of his heart to the beautiful battlefield nurse who saves his life, yet can never be his. Called a saint for her virtue and selfless courage, only Catherine Melbourne knows the tragic flaw at the core of her spirit. In Michael Kenyon, she sees the strength and kindness she craves, yet for honor’s sake she must conceal her love and send him away. Even when freed from her empty marriage, she conceals the truth because of the bleak knowledge that she can never again be any man’s wife. Then fate offers Catherine a fortune, a title, a heritage for her daughter—if Michael will impersonate her husband on a visit to a wild Cornish island. Reluctantly he agrees to the masquerade. But what begins as a simple journey leads them into a shattering vortex of danger and betrayal—and a fiercely passionate love that can no longer be denied. * A Romance Writers of America RITA® finalist for best Long Historical Romance "An extraordinary reading experience. Darkly erotic and sizzling with sensuality, this love story dazzles the senses and steals your heart away. Romance just doesn''t get any better than this." — Romantic Times "Rarely have I read a book about two such wonderful characters...Catherine is a beautiful, intelligent woman with integrity and Michael a noble, moral hero... Although many historical romances have used the backdrop of the Napoleonic Wars and the Battle of Waterloo, Putney''s description of the actual battle is electrifying... Books of quality such as Shattered Rainbows can only raise the standard for all romance novels. This is one of the best books of this year or any year." —TheRomanceReader.com "Ms. Putney makes me proud to be a romance reader. She writes beautiful stories about mature people with complicated lives and emotions that draw you in and will not let you go." — Old Book Barn Gazette The Fallen Angels series: Book 1: Thunder & Roses Book 2: Dancing on the Wind Book 3: Petals in the Storm Book 4: Angel Rogue Book 5: Shattered Rainbows Book 6: River of Fire Book 7: One Perfect Rose

Christmas 1815. Upstairs and downstairs, Holbourne Hall is abuzz with preparations for a grand ball to celebrate the year’s most festive—and romantic—holiday. For at the top of each guest’s wish list is a last chance to find true love before the New Year… A chance meeting beneath the mistletoe, a stolen glance across the dance floor—amid the sumptuous delicacies, glittering decorations, and swell of the orchestra, every duchess and debutante, lord and lackey has a hopeful heart. There’s the headstrong heiress who must win back her beloved by midnight—or be wed to another….the spinster whose fateful choice to relinquish love may hold one more surprise for her…a widow yearning to glimpse her long-lost love for even one sweet, fleeting interlude …a charming rake who finds far more than he bargained for. And many other dazzling, romantic tales in this star-studded collection that will fill your heart and spice up your holidays…

* A Holiday Fling is also available in the author''s Christmas novella collection, Christmas Revels. * This novella was also previously released under another title: A Christmas Fling. British actress Jenny Lyme is having a pretty decent career. Though she may not have become an international movie star, she’s well loved in England for a role on British TV and continues to work regularly. Now her hometown community center is in danger of being sold. The only hope for its salvation is if Jenny can film the Christmas Revels production she’s directing and sell it for television broadcasting. For that she needs a really good cameraman—and she just happens to know one…. Greg Marino has worked hard for his success as a Hollywood cinematographer, and he has an Oscar sitting by his coffee maker to prove it. But he still has fond memories of the fling he had with Jenny Lyme ten years earlier when they worked together on a disastrous movie. When she calls and asks if he’d film her community Christmas show, he decides it would be a fun break in his demanding life. And it would be really, really nice to see Jenny again. The show is a delight, and Jenny and Greg find the old attraction is still there. But is it possible to build a life together when both have demanding careers thousands of miles apart? Jenny and Greg are characters from The Spiral Path, the second novel in the Circle of Friends Trilogy. The Circle of Friends Trilogy The Burning Point, #1 The Spiral Path, #2 An Imperfect Process , #3 A Holiday Fling (A Circle of Friends Novella)

Bestselling author M.J. Putney''s spellbinding new romantic fantasy will sweep you from Wales''s mysterious forests to the glittering menace of Georgian London-and into a shattering rendezvous with fate. Heir to an ancient title, Simon Malmain, the Earl of Falconer, is well known among the Guardians, humans with magical powers derived from nature. Well known, but not always well loved . . . for those who enforce the law are rarely embraced by those whom they protect-and this is equally true whether the law is magical or mundane. A routine mission to confront a rogue Guardian who has misused his powers turns disastrous when Simon''s quarry, Lord Drayton, captures his pursuer in a transformation spell that can only be released by Drayton-or death. Aid arrives in the form of Meg, a fey young woman who first traps Simon, then frees him. As they flee together, Simon recognizes that Meg is also a victim of Drayton''s evil enchantments, and he restores her nature and innate magic. Though her memory is still clouded, she is freed at last from a shadowy world of fear and lost identity. She agrees to help Simon bring down Drayton. The need for each other''s magic binds them together-and releases the more ancient magic of passion. But desire cannot be satisfied until the rogue mage is stopped. For Drayton has a diabolical plan that will profoundly alter the course of Britain''s future. Even the combined power of Simon and Meg may not be enough to stave off catastrophe. Only a desperate act of love may win back the future-or destroy all they hold dear. The Guardian Trilogy: A Kiss of Fate, #1 Stolen Magic, #2 A Distant Magic, #3

This enchanting collection features stories set in glamorous Georgian and Regency England that illustrate the magical, sensual, and humorous events when the worlds of humans and faeries collide. Includes stories by Beverley, Karen Harbaugh, Barbara Samuel, and Mary Jo Putney.

Rekindled love heats up a snowy winter night in this Regency delight from New York Times bestselling author Mary Jo Putney. Originally published in Seduction on a Snowy Night. Dressed as a veiled princess, Lady Diana Lawrence is shocked to discover that the mysterious corsair who tempts her away from the costume ball is the duke she once loved and lost. Now snowed in with Castleton at a remote lodge, will she surrender to the passion still burning hotly between them? “Putney’s stories never fail to inspire and delight.” —Sabrina Jeffries [Originally published in Seduction on a Snowy Night.]

This novel has been previously published under the title Twist of Fate. From bestselling author Mary Jo Putney comes an emotionally charged story of a man and a woman brought together by a passion for justice, a hunger for change, and an imperfect process. When lawyer Val Covington receives a windfall and leaves her corporate career to practice “do-gooder law,” her assistant offers to come with her—if Val will look into the case of Kendra’s former lover, who is on Death Row for a crime he didn’t commit. Val agrees, but she can’t do it alone. She finds help in Rob Smith, her landlord, who is as capable as he is mysterious. If justice is an imperfect process, so is falling in love. Val and Rob are drawn together as they fight to save an innocent man’s life, but can they overcome their fears to build a lasting future? This novel was named a "Top Pick!" by Romantic Times Magazine. “[An Imperfect Process] takes on the increasingly timely topic of the death penalty. By continuing to tackle difficult subjects while delivering amazing entertainment, Putney is becoming one of the most potent voices in fiction today. Powerful emotions and unforgettable characters make [this] one of the best books of the year.” —Romantic Times “With fully realized characters and a finely designed plot, Putney presents a convincing look at what is right and what is wrong with our system of justice.” —Booklist “I highly recommend [An Imperfect Process],the third book in the Circle of Friends series (after The Burning Point and The Spiral Path). It''s an emotionally-charged story of honor, courage, and the healing power of love, with complex, multi-layered characters—a book readers will remember long after the last page is turned.” —Romance Reviews Today ufeffThe Circle of Friends Trilogy The Burning Point, #1 The Spiral Path, #2 An Imperfect Process , #3 A Holiday Fling (A Circle of Friends Novella)

An outcast on the high seas. A woman who defies convention. Gabriel Hawkins was born to command the sea, until he left the Royal Navy in disgrace and was disowned by his family. Now captaining his own ship, earning his living through dubious means, he is the best choice to ransom an aristocratic beauty captured by Barbary pirates. Facing the prospect of a life as a harem slave, Lady Aurora Lawrence is beyond horrified. Her only hope of escape lies in a quiet, steely captain who ignites an attraction in her that burns hot within the close confines of his ship. But even if they endure the perils of the waves, can their love survive a return to England, where the distance between a disgraced captain and an earl''s daughter is wider than the ocean? A stunning historical romance for fans of Bridgerton and Johanna Lindsey.

In this sparkling holiday collection, eight acclaimed authors unwrap the most daring of Regency delights . . . Christmastime in England—a time for passionate secrets, delicious whispers, and wicked-sweet gifts by the fire. From a spirited lady who sets out to save her rakish best friend from an unsuitable engagement, to a bold spy who gets the unexpected chance to win the woman he’s always loved, to a vicar’s daughter who pretends to be a saucy wench, these holiday tales will make you curl up in front of the fire for a memorable season of mischief and mistletoe . . .

"First published in October 1999 by Signet...Originally published in a somewhat different version in a Signet edition entitled The Would-be widow"--T.p. verso

Although innocent young Caroline Hanscombe loves only gallant Captain Richard Davenport, she finds herself succumbing to the ruthless will of Baron Radford who, after drawing her name from a hat, has wagered that he will wed Caroline. Originally in paperback.

Maxima Collingwood, a lovely young American who is having great difficulty adjusting to the straight-jacket of English society, runs away from her ancestral manor, straight into the arms of the infamous Lord Robert Andreville