In this dazzling novel, New York Times bestselling author Susan Johnson sweeps readers into 19th century Japan and the all-consuming passion shared by the unlikeliest of lovers.
When her father's forces fall to the imperial army, Tama has no choice but to leave Japan before her enemies find her. Disguised as a peasant boy, she makes her way to the city's fabled pleasure quarter, where anything and anyone is for sale and no request is forbidden. There she finds the one man who can take her to Paris, former gunrunner Captain Hugh Drummond. For the privilege of his protection, she's willing to pay him handsomely…in whatever currency he desires…
Taking on a daimyo's beautiful—and willing—daughter may have seemed a fine idea at the time, but now, dodging assassins, spies, and the police while waiting for his cargo, Hugh has other ideas. The lady is as sharp of tongue as she is skilled with a sword. But once she's in his bed, the captain is overcome by a desire to protect Tama—and ravage her—in equal measure…
In a country teeming with danger, where no one can be trusted, the line between royalty and commoner will melt under passion's heat...strangers will become lovers...and uninhibited pleasure will offer love's only refuge...
With her father dead and the family declared traitors to the emperor, Princess Tama must reach her brother in France. But she needs Hugh Drummond’s help to evade the chief inspector’s assassins.
The journey from the high mountains of northern Japan to the coast is fraught with danger at every turn. Only with the help of a loyal samurai do they survive.
As the danger mounts, so does the sexual tension. They cannot deny their attraction, and even in the midst of danger, they explore their heated love. But is there a place in the world where they can be safe and their love flourish?
This is vintage Johnson—sexy and brimming over with colorful history and lush details. This seductive story glides with the sensuous caress of a silk robe, and the lure of the East will captivate you. VERY SENSUAL(Meaning: Spicy, but goes beyond conventional lovemaking. Explicit sex.) (Jan., 352pp., $15.00)
Kathe Robin
