The Painted Rose

by Donna Birdsell

SECRETS

Some say that a phantom haunts Elmstone Manor. A young woman, heavily veiled, has been seen walking among the estate's lavish rose gardens. The townspeople are afraid to go there, but Lucien Delacourte has no choice.

REGRETS

Hired by the owner of Elmstone Manor to tutor his younger sister in painting, Lucien is on the run from his own ghosts. His wife and daughter were killed in a fire in Paris, and he can't escape the knowledge that he might have prevented their deaths.

TEMPTATION

The reclusive Lady Sarah hides her wounded heart behind her veils. But the sad eyes of her handsome young tutor seem to burn right through them, willing her to face her fears. Awakening to the world again, Sarah longs for Lucien's love. Yet how can a man so used to beauty ever desire a woman whose face he hasn't seen...?

Genres: Historical Romance

336 pages, Mass Market Paperback

First published January 1, 2004

Reviews

[Cassandra Kostuch · Rating 5 out of 5]

I *adored* this book. It was beautifully written with a nice little slice or mystery and intrigue.

[Euriel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Simply enthralling.

[Frances · Rating 1 out of 5]

Is there anything lower than one star?

[Gemma · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked it. An unusual premise, in that the hero doesn't get to see the heroine's face for a good portion of the novel. You either like it or you don't.