If you're in the slumps of late and are looking for a new author, I'm more than happy to point out to you Jane Lark and her début novel `Illicit Love'.

She just blew me away with this romantic, sensual and heartbreaking story of true love. This story truly makes you believe that true love can conquer all obstacles in its path.

Jane Lark creates a pair of lovers that are refreshingly honest in their desires of each other, and that in itself is unique.

Everything about this novel impressed. The unique plot added intrigue to the fast paced and very emotional drama and the characterization of the main players enhanced the story and added another dimension to this tension filled romance. Her prose is rich and the story was engaging from the very start, which kept me enthralled until the end. I honestly couldn't put it down. The characters were well-rounded, complex and believable. The dialogue is crisp, entertaining, and captivating.

Ms. Lark set out to share with her readers a story of true and unconditional, as well as unconventional, love; love that defies all odds, and I am happy to have discovered this little gem of a novel.

This is one romance novel that must be added to your TBR! ( )

Jane Hunt Writer First Steps

Jane Hunt Writer Book Reviews Google

'The Illicit Love of a Courtesan' is Ellen's poignant battle to overcome the abuse she suffered after husband's death at Waterloo. Her emotional rebirth necessitates self-forgiveness and trust of others before she accepts the love which will restore her humanity and self-worth. Numerous obstacles plague her life in the form of cruel men and society's unforgiving strictures. To find her happy ever after she must harness her fears and conquer these.

Edward a second son has lost his life motivation after the return of his elder brother to reclaim his legacy which has prospered under Edward's stewardship. Wiling his time away in a notorious gaming hell he notices and ultimately has an intimate liaison with Ellen a courtesan who he wins for a couple of hours when he calls her protector Gainsborough out for cheating.

The passion ignites between them and even though she belongs to another Edward cannot forget her. He seeks her out and they enjoy and illicit week of passion whilst her protector is away. On Gainsborough's return he threatens Ellen with her worst nightmare and she runs to Edward the only one who can save her.

Full of angst this story draws you in as soon as the gravity of Ellen's situation is evident. Edward is a true hero willing to protect his lady against all evils and able to forgive her even when she lies.

The supporting cast of characters are interesting and I look forward to the next in the series. 'The Passionate Love of a Rake'

'The Illicit Love of a Courtesan' is an emotional romantic story which gives an excellent insight into the vulnerability of young women in Regency society. ( )