First published 2010
Miss Penelope Deveraux finds herself banished to India after a scandalous marriage lands her in disgrace. Now Lady Frederick Staines, she must wait in exile while London society forgets her transgressions. But Penelope discovers that the court of the Nizam of Hyderabad holds far greater dangers than any English ballroom. Elaborate court rituals conceal deadly intrigues, and a mysterious spy known as the Marigold marks his victims with venomous cobras. Even her own husband harbors secrets. Captain Alex Reid initially dismisses Penelope as another pampered aristocrat requiring protection. He quickly learns otherwise when she demonstrates superior marksmanship, horsemanship, and swimming skills. More troubling, she possesses an unusual talent for uncovering the Marigold's lethal schemes while placing herself directly in danger. Local warlords threaten British interests, corrupt court officials plot betrayals, and French agents work to destabilize the empire. Reid realizes that partnering with the unconventional Lady Staines may represent his only hope of preventing a conspiracy that could shatter British rule in India.
Genres: romance, historical-fiction, adventure, 19th-century
Vibes: atmospheric, intimate, suspenseful
Tropes: enemies-to-lovers, fish-out-of-water
Setting: India, Hyderabad, England
Period: 19th-century
401 pages · Hardcover · Dutton Adult