Review: In the Garden of Temptation by Cynthia Wicklund

Title: In the Garden of Temptation
Author: Cynthia Wicklund

Genre: Historical Romance
Publisher: Self Pub

Series: Garden, #1

~*~Book Blurb~*~

Adam Stanford, Earl of Ashworth, is a man who has always done the right thing. That is until he meets the beautiful Lady Catherine Bourgeault, wife to the Baron Bourgeault. Honor and gentlemanly conduct fly in the face of a love Adam cannot deny. He will risk his reputation and all he holds dear to possess this amazing woman. But what seems like a simple, straightforward effort to "steal" another man's wife is fraught with deceit and the dark secrets of an evil, demented man who will do anything to save his empty marriage.

Cynthia Wicklund has created a unique and unforgettable story in "In the Garden of Temptation".

The Earl of Ashworth has been lured to a country estate with the interest in purchasing two rare horses by the aging Baron Bourgeault. So, when he finds himself in the presence of a young and beautiful woman, he never places her as the elderly Baron's wife. Strange and deceitful circumstances leave the young Baroness and the Earl alone, and in a short amount of time, lends to their falling for one another. What Adam Stanford and Catherine Bourgeault are not aware of, however, is that there is more to their "chance" meeting than meets the eye.

In the Garden of Temptation, readers are taken on a ride through a whirlwind of emotions; a conglomeration of irritation, frustration, wonder, passion, love, and even sympathy. However, the real twist to the story, is that sympathy lies with both of the protagonists and even the antagonist. Each character is a victim of circumstance in some way and at some point in the story. That's not to say that they each made appropriate or justifiable choices, but it does put some things into perspective. Adultery is a facet in this story, however, unless you are truly sensitive to this topic, it is my personal opinion that it is not something to dwell on. Yes, I know, people will question my feelings, and I'm not justifying adultery, I am, however, stating that there truly is more than meets the eye of the characters actions and plot line. I just can't say what because it is the driving force behind the plot and I'm not one to give spoilers. I will say that the husband is a major part of the affair. Or can he even legally be called her husband? Hmmm.... :)