The gentlemen of the Bastion Club have proven their courage while fighting England’s enemies, but nothing has prepared them for dealing with that most formidable of challenges: the opposite sex.ĭeverell, Viscount Paignton, is in desperate need of a wife.

Jack must use every ounce of his cunning and wit to protect this highly independent and richly passionate woman… Why on earth is she rusticating in the country? That enigma is compounded by mystery, and it’s quickly clear that Clarice is in danger. Clarice is delectably attractive, beyond eligible, undeniably capable, and completely unforgettable. She is the very antithesis of the woolly headed young ladies Jack has rejected as not for him. Lady Clarice Altwood is no meek and mild miss. However, while he begins by taking command, the lady continues by taking it back. But then in the lane before his gate, Jack rescues a startlingly beautiful lady from a menacing, unmanageable horse.

Turning his back on the entire notion of marriage, he rides home to the estate he has not seen for years, determined to set in motion an alternative course of action. The last of his line, Jack, Baron Warnefleet, has fled London after nearly being compromised into marrying a dreadful female. Now, after years of loyal service to the Crown, they each one by one must face that greatest danger of all… The men of the Bastion Club are powerful, loyal, and not averse to overcoming danger if they must. But when a traitorous intrigue draws them together, then ultimately threatens them both will Penny discover she has a true protector in Charles, her first and only love, who now vows to make her his own? If controlling her heart was difficult before, resisting a stronger, battle hardened Charles is well nigh impossible, yet Penelope has vowed she won’t make the same mistake twice, nor will she marry without love. Charles is still haunted by their interlude, but Penny refuses to have anything more to do with him. Years ago, Charles and Penelope’s youthful ardor was consummated in an unforgettable afternoon. Austell returns home to claim his title as earl, and to settle quickly on a suitable wife as well, he discovers that experience has made him impatient of the young ladies who vie for his attention with the exception of Lady Penelope Selborne.

Now they’ve banded together to support one another through their most dangerous mission of all: getting married. The seven members of the Bastion Club have served loyally in the perilous service of the Crown.

Stephanie laurens where the heart leads