Touch of Night

Susan Spencer Paul

Language: English

Publisher: Macmillan

Published: Apr 1, 2007

Description:

The Seymour family is one of the oldest and most respected families in England. However, what no one knows is that this family is also magically inclined and it's a secret they intend to keep. Niclas Seymour can sense the thoughts and emotions of others. It was only years ago that he became indirectly responsible for his best friend's death when he told him that his wife was cheating on him and he killed himself. And the law of the magical families is that if blood is shed by magic done then the offender is placed under a blood curse. Niclas has not known true sleep in three years and it is slowly driving him mad. He will do anything to lift the curse and finally be free of it. The only way that can happen is if he does a great deed for a member of his best friend's family. Such an opportunity has eluded him thus far. Then a Miss Julia Linley, also from one of the most respected families--and a distant relative of his friend---needs aide in rescuing her aunt from Niclas' uncle. It seems the man is set on marrying her aunt against her wishes. Not a great deed, but Niclas will take up this challenge on her behalf. What he does not expect when he meets Julia is that just her touch alone has the ability to drown out the voices. He craves her soothing touch, not only for the relief it brings, but for the passion she arouses in him. However, as they travel, an old nemesis appears threatening to expose Niclas and the whole magical society throughout England. And if Julia discovers his dark secrets will he lose her forever?

Review

4-1/2 Kisses! Delightful romance at its best. This fabulous magical tale is a must read! -- Romance Divas

4-1/2 Stars Top Pick! Entrancing blend of magic and romance. A must for fans of Susan Carroll and Katherine Kingsley. -- Romantic Times Magazine

Fans of both the paranormal and Regency genre won't be able to resist this new series. -- The Rakehell

Touch of Night includes everything this reviewer craves. This story blends magic, fantasy and romance into one extraordinary tale. -- Fallen Angels Reviews

Touch of Night is a wonderful first installment of what will surely be an engaging new paranormal series. -- Book Loons

From the Back Cover

My Dearest Reader-

I beg your pardon for unburdening my secrets to you, for I am a man accursed....

I hail from an ancient Welsh clan, descended from magic-some of it dark indeed. For generations we have hidden our powers, acquired great wealth, and entered England's aristocracy. Oh, do not stare at me so! I feel your mocking eyes. You mark my muddy clothes. You think me mad. But once I, Niclas Seymour, was the most eligible bachelor of Regency England!

Then came the blood curse that left me a night-wanderer with no peace. And no hope....except Julia Linley. I can redeem myself through her, or so the Dewin Mawr, the leader of the Families (as we call ourselves), has told me. Now Lady Julia has consented to let me escort her on a perilous journey.

You doubt my words? `Tis true. This innocent lady believes me to be a gentleman. Yet as we ride into a mist-shrouded landscape of faery realms and evil sorcerers, I feel forbidden urges within me. I want her surrendering to my kiss.

You think me a monster? I ask for your mercy. Magic is a dangerous art, and passion a sword that can cleave a heart in twain. But perhaps love can slay my dark demons, or so I dare to dream...

Your obedient servant,
Niclas Seymour, Castle Tylluan, Wales