Judith James’ RAKES AND ROGUES OF THE RESTORATION transports you to the thrilling days of highwaymen, cavaliers, courtiers, and spies. Rich with history and sizzling with passion, these are love stories you won’t soon forget! #1 LIBERTINE'S KISS: England, 1658—Having put a troubled youth firmly behind him, William de Veres—military hero, noted rake and close friend of the king—rises swiftly in the ranks of the hedonistic Restoration court. Though not before he is forced to seek shelter from a charming young Puritan woman. By opening her door to a wounded cavalier, the widowed Elizabeth Walters unwittingly endangers all she holds dear, opens a door to her past, and changes her life forever. Can a promise made between childhood friends lead to a new beginning? Can a debauched court poet and notorious libertine convince the wary Elizabeth he is capable of love? The first in a series of 17th century romantic historicals, an AAR Desert Island Keeper and an RT nominee for Best British Isles Historical, this book tells the story of two childhood sweethearts torn apart by civil war and reunited following the restoration of Charles II to the throne. It features a hero based on the notorious libertine, poet and close friend to the king, John Wilmot Earl of Rochester
“There are books I love to the point of wanting everybody I know to go out and buy a copy. Libertine’s Kiss is one of those rare books. Judith James juggles poetry, Restoration court culture, and fairytale references with an almost perfect sense of timing, and the result is a world that springs vividly to life. Rather than simplifying the historical details of the day, the author weaves their many threads into her story, letting readers see her world in its many layers of light and dark just as her characters would have. The result is a story that is sweeping and epic. I find myself wanting to compare it to something, but there is really nothing out there quite like this.”
~Lynn Spencer, All About Romance Desert Isle Keeper Review
“Fueled by sizzling sensuality and sharp wit, James’ refreshingly different historical deftly re-creates the glittering, colorful court of Charles II while also delivering an unforgettable love story.”
~John Charles, Booklist starred review
“Libertine’s Kiss is a captivating story of love lost and found. Penned with clarity and emotion, its poignancy is tangible...a wonderful story of passion, promises made and broken, and a love that stands the test of time.”
~Joyfully Reviewed
“Historical details, poetic quotations and fictional characters based on real individuals blend perfectly in Libertine’s Kiss. Judith James’ characters are wonderfully crafted...William and Elizabeth’s story is compelling, sexy as can be and expertly told...Libertine’s Kiss is everything a historical romance should be and more. Don’t miss this one!”
~Joyce Greenfield, ReaderToReader.com
“Readers will not be able to resist this charming tale of childhood sweethearts who are reunited later in life to become each other’s salvation.”
~Romance Novel News
“Readers will find this poignant love story enthralling and unforgettable.”
~Kathe Robin, Romantic Times top pick
“To get a 9 out of me, an author has to give me characters I can relate to, people who have problems that they face with bravery, honor and humor. The characters need a setting so vivid I feel like I’m there. The plot must avoid easy romance clichés, and the author has to use English in ways that make each sentence a pleasure to read. Libertine’s Kiss is most definitely a 9.”
The Season top pick
The 17th century has always been one of my favorite periods in history and I am delighted to release the Rakes and Rogues of The Restoration series at last. Libertine’s Kiss is the first book, followed by Soldier of Fortune (The King’s Courtesan)and my new release The Highwayman. Although each one can stand alone, they were written as a series, and when read in sequence, they provide a richer picture of the characters and the times. Meet the Libertine, William de Veres and his childhood sweetheart Elizabeth Walters in Libertine's Kiss. Meet the soldier and the courtesan in Soldier of Fortune. Find out what lies in store for Captain Nichols and revisit Lizzy, Will, and friends. Last but not least, prepare to be swept away by The Highwayman, a story based on the real highwayman Swift Nick and inspired by the intrepid 17th century traveler and journalist Celia Fiennes.
