"Wicked Intentions" is one of those books that kept me a bit confused and I spent most of the book trying to decide if I liked it or not! But I did keep reading so that must say something. Lydia Joyce's novels have a definite gothic feel to them. They are dark and brooding. I've read her earlier books and did enjoy them, yet this one has a very different 'vibe' for me. The hero and heroine (and I use those terms loosely here) were antagonists for most of the story. The sex...was sex, not lovemaking, up to the very end of the book. And the sex began on page 35 with a scene that was (to me anyway) uncomfortably close to unwilling on the heroine's part. But, as I said, I did keep reading and finish the book. This is just one that didn't click or sit well with me.

Esmeralda is a mysterious, veiled creature who uses the current fad for spiritualism to gain power in the ton. But power for what purpose and over whom? When she entangles Thomas' mother in her web, he confronts her and finds that even though he doesn't trust her, he does desire her. As Thomas and Esmeralda's schemes advance, so does their attraction for each other. But will one of them have to give up their plans for the other to succeed?

Gothic, noir, and brooding. With an ending that manages to wrap everything up in a nice, tidy package. ( )