The Proposal

InMary Balogh's engaging and seductive new novel of drama and romance, a womancomfortable in her solitude allows temptation to free her heart, when a daringwar hero shows her how truly extraordinary she is.

THEPROPOSAL

Gwendoline,Lady Muir, has seen her share of tragedy, especially since a freak accidenttook her husband much too soon. Content in a quiet life with friends andfamily, the young widow has no desire to marry again. But when Hugo, LordTrentham, scoops her up in his arms after a fall, she feels a sensation thatboth shocks and emboldens her.

Hugonever intends to kiss Lady Muir, and frankly, he judges her to be a spoiled,frivolous-if beautiful-aristocrat. He is a gentleman in name only: a soldierwhose bravery earned him a title; a merchant's son who inherited his wealth. Heis happiest when working the land, but duty and title now demand that he findsa wife. He doesn't wish to court Lady Muir, nor have any role in the societygames her kind thrives upon. Yet Hugo has never craved a woman more; Gwen'sguileless manner, infectious laugh, and lovely face have ruined him for anyother woman. He wants her, but will she have him?

Thehard, dour ex-military officer who so gently carried Gwen to safety is a manwho needs a lesson in winning a woman's heart. Despite her cautious nature,Gwen cannot ignore the attraction. As their two vastly different worlds cometogether, both will be challenged in unforeseen ways. But through courtship andseduction, Gwen soon finds that with each kiss, and with every caress, shecannot resist Hugo's devotion, his desire, his love, and the promise offorever.