In Which Matilda Halifax Learns the Value of Restraint — Alexandra Vasti

The second novella in Alexandra Vasti's “hot, smart, funny, and charming as hell”* Halifax Hellions series.

For seven years, Matilda Halifax and her twin have been the most scandalous ladies in London. But when Matilda accidentally sells erotic drawings of the brooding, reclusive Marquess of Ashford, she has -- perhaps -- gone a bit too far.

Christian de Bord, Lord Ashford, knows what it's like to be notorious. Ever since he was accused of murdering his wife, prurient gossip has kept him isolated from society, alone and determined to protect his adolescent sister Bea. But when Matilda Halifax's salacious pamphlet appears -- featuring his own damned face! -- he's thrust back into the storm of public attention.

Bea's painting teacher quits. Christian's life is in an uproar. And the only person he can find to replace Bea's tutor at his terrifying Gothic castle is Matilda herself. The last thing Christian needs is another scandal -- especially not one with the most sinfully tempting face he's ever seen.

But Matilda is determined to right what she's set wrong. One fake elopement later, Matilda finds herself in a carriage on the way to Northumberland with Christian, whose scowls do little to hide the wounds he carries or the scorching passion beneath his reserve. Only Matilda Halifax could turn Christian's disciplined life so decidedly inside out -- and only Matilda can persuade him that love just might be worth the risk.

*Alix E. Harrow, New York Times bestselling author