Lady Madeline Matthews is forced to take drastic measures when her parents demand she marry a slobbering old man who has a title and nothing else to recommend him. She hatches a plan to run away to London and sacrifice her virginity, thus ruining her reputation. To accomplish this, she picks her target: Logan Scott, a man who is not only a famous actor, a well-known rake, but also from a far lower class. Could he be more perfect?

To her frustration, Logan appears to be completely immune to her enticements, and it is only with the help of the eccentric older lady who rents her a room, that she is able to capture his attention. In reality, Logan is becoming increasingly obsessed with the mysterious little virgin and finally succumbs to his desires, leading them both to a place of never before felt emotion, complete love...not to mention the heights of physical ecstasy. Unfortunately, Maddy's past rudely interrupts their bliss when her father finally tracks her down and her previous wish suddenly comes true. She is indeed ruined. Falling in love had never been part of her plan but now, much to her despair, Logan is revolted by her deceit.

Furious and disgusted with both Maddy and himself, Logan bids her good riddance. However, when she turns up pregnant, he is forced to re-evaluate his feelings. Will he ever be able to forgive her? And when the truth emerges about his parentage, how will it affect their lives?

Although this is one of the author's earlier works, it is obvious from the start why Ms. Kleypas has become one of the genre's foremost writers. Her deft handling of the characters' developing emotions is outstanding, allowing the reader to witness their growth in all areas.

We see Maddy's immature selfishness blossom into a woman's love for a man. That self-centeredness, which prompted her to choose Logan for her own purposes, soon becomes a strong will to protect and keep what is hers...namely their baby. Likewise, we watch Logan slowly lower his shields to her infectious charm. Then, despite her perfidy, and his determination to punish her for allowing him to hope again and then destroying that faint glimmer, we witness his surrender to the inevitability of their love.

Both the internal and external conflicts add up to a sizzling tension within an irresistible tale of love, betrayal and redemption. Because You're Mine is classic Kleypas, reminding the reader why she has become a "go to" author for so many enthusiastic, always well-satisfied fans! Five Angels, plus Recommended Read.

Reviewed by: Lynn