Seven years ago, Sophia Dawson made a decision that changed the course of her life.  With the death of her pirate father she inherited all of his riches and abandoned her pirate lover, Black Hawk.  Sophia entered into London Society with the goal of finding a titled husband.

Sophia’s dreams are about to come true as she catches the eye of an earl.  She hopes that soon she will be known as his countess.  She hides her dark past from him and presents herself as a refined lady.  Sophia’s sinful past comes back to haunt her in the form of James Hawkins aka Black Hawk.  The pirate scoundrel is posing as captain of a ship.  She knows that if he reveals her true identity all of her plans for the future will be ruined.

Captain James Hawkins detests London town.  He only agreed to give up his pirating ways to protect his sister.  At a London social he happens upon his long-lost lover Sophia Dawson.  When he last saw her, she left his side after a night of torrid sex with no explanation, leaving behind a timepiece inscribed with the message that she wished him to everlasting hell.

Will James risk his and Sophia’s safety to revisit their past in order to gain the answers his soul needs for closure?  There is assured to be a battle of wits when these two match against one another.  Which one will triumph as the victor?

The Infamous Rogue brings back fond memories of the beloved pirate novels from my childhood.  Sophia and James radiate sexual tension that literally sets your body on fire.  Alexandra Benedict, you should be commended for writing such a wonderful novel that is assured to be deemed one of the best historical novels of 2009.  Very highly recommended.