It's no easy feat to put together two characters who live in two different worlds, have nothing in common, and lived in different spheres, but Lisa Kleypas made it work in this book with a story rich in emotion, conflict, and love.

I've read the Wallflowers series before this and it reminded me of the Sebastian-Evie pairing. Derek has seen all the evils in this world and rose from it through streetsmarts and a fortunate fate. One would doubt if there's anything that would scare or disgust him. No wonder he's every bit of cynical especially in relationships. His friendship with Lily (from Then Came You) is an exception and it's quite interesting.

Sara, on the other hand, is a born-and-bred country miss who wrote about the evils in Derek's world. Her best-selling novel earned her a place in every prostitute's heart (especially the ones in Craven's who read it). She must've written it very well because everyone believed Mathilda was real, and some believed Mathilda is her alternate personality. It was very amusing the way the staff at Craven's warmed up to her during her research.

I instantly liked her character because I have a soft spot for writers. Aside from that, I admired her wit, charm, and boldness. At first glance, with her spinster/bluestocking looks, she's the most unlikely character to tame Derek, but it's not surprising that she was able to because to him she's a breath of fresh air. Underneath that facade is a sensual woman who can make a man forget his name, with the right dress.

From Then Came You, I had a little trouble deciphering Derek's character because he's complex, but as I read more about him, it's as simple as no attachments, no hurt. That's what he's been doing to protect himself from more pain. Through the years, he was toughened up good and he had the clout over the aristocrats and nobles through his gaming club.

Their story really progressed slowly, there were a lot of touching moments, some hints that Derek's really charming when he wants to be, the love scenes were passionate and of course, characters were vulnerable during those, especially Derek. The antagonist is really obsessed and psychotic and it's a good thing Sara was good with pistols. I'll definitely read this again and recommend it to my friends. 5 stars! ( )

Sara Fielding is researching her novel in a London rookery when she spies a man being attacked. Going to his rescue, she accidently shoots one of the attackers, and saves the life of Derek Craven. Derek is a man who has clawed his way up from the gutter to become one of the richest men in England, but all his money has not bought him happiness.

This wasn't bad - I really liked Sara who knew what she wanted, and although called mouse, she really wasn't.

I don't even know how to being to describe how much I liked this book. So, far every book I have read by this author(and there hasn't been too many since I just started reading LK), I've just loved. Besides It Happened One Autumn, Dreaming Of You is my favorite LK book. Our hero Derek Craven is just addicting, and intriguing - even when he's being an ass. I had a hard time putting this one down. Every time I thought of taking a break from reading I'd end up going on to the next chapter, cause I had to find out what happened next. :) This is the second book in the book in the Gamblers series, but it can be read as a stand alone. It's a must read! ( )

A can't put it down book - great story!

http://ktleyed.blogspot.com/2009/04/d... ( )

Kleypas is a wonderful author who knows how to write characters that show a wealth of feeling. This book is about Sara Fielding, a female author in Victorian England, who dares to write about destitute prostitutes and young men brought into poverty through gambling and addiction; and Derek Craven, a man who has risen above his station and become one of the wealthiest men in England. How these two meet is just one of the many exciting and surprising scenes in the novel. ( )