Romantic suspense among the wealthy landed of the deep south.

Orphaned Roanna Davenport idolizes her older cousin Webb. Unfortunately, although he loves his little cousin, he has eyes only for cousin Jessie. Illegitimate Jessie is wildly jealous of Roanna's legitimacy, even though her own looks, grace, and (slightly) malicious charm have made her the spoiled darling of the family. When the nasty triangle explodes and Jessie is murdered, Webb strikes out on his own, finding success in ranching out west. Ten years pass, and Roanna strikes a deal with the devil to get Webb home. But unfortunately for the Davenport family, Webb's return is nothing more than a match to the powder keg their family has become.

Earlier Howard -- she's tempered her sex scenes some in more recent novels. The intimate scenes here are pretty graphic, as is some of the language. Still, I've re-read this one a few times, and will probably drag it out again when I'm in the mood. ( )

An oldy but goody. I picked this up off the shelf last night because I wanted to read something a little dramatic yet romantic, and no matter how many times I read this book it always makes me want to cry. In a good way, not an "omigod this book is so horrible I want to cry" way. True, I've wandered away from reading Howard's newer stuff, but I still enjoy her older works just as much as ever. If you've never read Linda Howard -- which is unlikely of anyone with access to my library -- than Shades of Twilight is a good place to start. To everyone else, why not have a nostalgic moment and give this one another go. ( )

When Roanna and her cousin Jessie are orphaned they go to live with their grandmother on the family estate. Roanna adores her cousin Webb, but it is the older Jessie he marries. When Jessie is murdered, Webb is accused, and although he is cleared, the lack of support from most of the family drives him away.
Ten years later, Roanna, who has since completely changed her personality and behaviour as a defence mechanism, is sent by her grandmother to bring Webb home.
I've read this a few times and I still enjoy it although it's somewhat of a guilty pleasure. Full of angst and drama, a good comfort read.

another great romance; involves sex, intrique, family loyalty; Howard at her best. the heroine was a little weaker than i would have liked but will re-read nonetheless ( )

I really enjoyed it - its great trashy romantic suspense.