What a great historical romance. I picked up Deborah Raleigh's first historical "Some Like It Sinful" and found it to be quite a merry read. I read the rest of that series and enjoyed every one, so I was pleased to see her newest "Bedding the Baron" on the bookshelf at my local bookstore.

Frederick, Ian, & Raoul are the acknowledged bastards of 3 different peers of London society. They were also the first three students of Mr Dunnington, a teacher who ran a school for boys of quality who were not quite legitimate; and the 'boys' are now men. Mr Dunnington has died and left these three an astonishing inheritance of L20,000 pounds each! If that wasn't enough, his will reveals that he amassed the money for each by blackmailing their respective and respected fathers. Now, each must decide if he wants, and is willing to risk the consequences, of finding out just what information was worth paying that much blackmail.

The first story belongs to Frederick. A beautiful and brillant inventor who has made of himself a brillant success in business. He has plenty of money and is always looking for new ventures. He decides to take a break and investigate his real father's dark secret. Taking cover from a rainstorm at the nearest inn, he encounters a beautiful, young, but atrociously dressed female. Apparently, she is the innkeeper! It doesn't take Frederick long to realize she is 'the one' he's been waiting for.

Portia, on the other hand, has no love for London 'gentlemen'. Badly betrayed by both her father and her fiance, she spent several months terrified and alone. Then the local innkeeper saved her. He's long dead and she now relishes the freedom of ordering her own life and running the inn as she sees fit. It will take some serious effort's on Frederick's behalf to convince her that not all 'gentlemen' are rakes and rogues!

The story is by turns, sweet, silly, and sexy. The passion between the hero and heroine is fairly hot for the time depicted and quite satisfying. The amazing coincidences necessary to advance the plot don't take away from the sheer reading pleasure. If you like your historical romances with a bit of heat, not a hint of danger, and a truly happily-ever-after, then definitely pick up a copy of "Bedding the Baron" by Deborah Raleigh. She'll probably end up on your must-buy list too! ( )