The Christmas Conquest — Claire Delacroix

Love was not part of the plan when this marriage was arranged...Rhys Bettencourt, Baron Trevelaine, had every intention of avoiding his family's curse. An arranged marriage to a plain bluestocking of fortune should have ensured the provision of at least one heir. After all, it was beloved Bettencourt wives who always died in childbirth. But practical Catherine undermined her husband's scheme by stealing his heart. The only way for Rhys to protect her is to deny them both physical satisfaction, against his own desires.Catherine Carruthers was content to wed for practical considerations and accept an arranged marriage to please her family. Two years later, though, Catherine is certain that her dashing aristocrat of a husband regrets his choice and that her marriage will never be more. She accepts an invitation to Rockmorton Manor for Christmas to decide whether to leave Rhys and return to her father's house. Upon arrival, though, Catherine discovers pages of sensual advice left in her room-as well as Rhys determined to convince her to stay. Can their marriage be saved?Armed with information and with little to lose, Catherine embarks upon a campaign of seduction that Rhys is powerless to resist-even as he fears for Catherine's fate if he surrenders to temptation. Caught between love and the wretched curse, can Rhys find a way to keep his cherished wife safely by his side?This edition includes the bonus epilogue, Upon a Midnight Clear.