For the First Time
By Kathryn Smith

      Devlin Ryland gained more than physical scars as he fought for his country; his wounds penetrate his soul. While others call him a hero, he considers himself an ordinary man who did everything necessary to survive-even commit murder.

      Blythe Christian hid from the humiliation of her affianced marrying another until her brother hosts a celebration. Now she not only has to face her betraying betrothed, but also the man who saved his life at Waterloo.

      Heartache still fresh in her memory, Blythe fears trusting another man. Born as the result of marital rape, Devlin has never known unconditional love. In For the First Time, two otherwise brave hearts struggle to find the courage to lay the past to rest and open their lives to ultimate happiness.

      Ms. Smith presents an expertly crafted tale of loyalty and love. Her plot is well developed, and her characters are three-dimensional. Devlin is seductively magnetic-handsome, noble and sensitive. Blythe is wonderfully imperfect-strong, independent, and Junoesque. Ms. Smith earns extra kudos for writing about a heroine with a less than perfect body. Readers may want to keep potholders nearby; the intimacies are HOT!