Marriage

Millions of fans agree with Romantic Times when it praises Cathy Maxwell for being an author "who understands the human heart and whose stories touch our souls." Her novels are filled with dashing, daring characters, yet their desires are universal. Brenn Owen, the new but impoverished Earl of Merton, is looking for a bride--one rich enough to finance his estate. When he meets Tess Hamlin, he sees a woman who is not only wealthy, but a dazzling beauty as well. To his surprise, Tess quickly accepts his proposal. But behind her eagerness lurks a secret she will do anything to hide from him. As the Earl and his bride begin their life together, their path is a passionate one, but far from smooth--haste must give way to patience and understanding. Virginia Leishman's narration heightens the drama of each colorful exchange between the lovers.

Cathy Maxwell's popular romances deliver irresistible tales of forbidden desire between exalted people who refuse to be trapped by conventions. In A Scandalous Marriage, just as a beautiful debutante enters London society, dishonor drives her to the isolated countryside. While in hiding, Leah Carrollton encounters the dashing and noble Devon Marshall. They once felt a passionate spark for one another, and now it seems their feelings might rekindle. But the cruel truth is that they are from rival families. Leah's brother once challenged Devon to a duel, and there are rumors that her father is responsible for a terrible accident that killed Devon's father. Even all-consuming desire may not be enough to defy the bonds of blood. Narrator Virginia Leishman brings warmth and compassion to this scandalous tale as Leah and Devon fight to preserve their love.

Cathy Maxwell writes clever, engaging romances that find the many answers to the question, "Why do people fall in love?" In The Marriage Contract, she journeys to 19th-century Scotland, where an unexpected marriage thrusts two strong-willed people into the fiery depths of passion. When Anne Burnett is forced into a proxy marriage with Aidan Black, a dashing Scottish laird with a reputation for unpredictability, traveling to the wilds of Scotland to meet him is only a small concern. Her biggest worry is how to inform her new husband that he is married. Falling in love with his castle and the fierce loyalty Aidan inspires in his people, Anne finds her greatest challenge is yet to come; somehow she must find her way past her husband's proud exterior and convince him to consummate their marriage. Virginia Leishman's captivating performance of this sweeping love story captures every breathless insight into the mysterious wonders of love.