Theory of Magic

"Patricia Rice weaves magical love stories" - Mary Jo Putney, NY Times Bestselling Author Discover the third book in NY Times bestseller Patricia Rice's Unexpected Magic historical romance series! Scorned by suitors for her statuesque size, Harriet Stansbury bolts when her abusive stepfather begins negotiating with impecunious aristocrats to sell her for her dowry. When opportunity offers, she daringly takes a position in an eccentric household until she can claim her fortune. Once a dashing rakehell, Duncan Ives, Marquess of Ashford lost his eyesight in a murderous assault. Abandoned by his fiancée, unable to ride the vast fields of his estate, he vents his frustration on political reform. On impulse, he hires the intriguing smoky-voiced Harriet even though he knows she's lying-like him-with almost every word she speaks. At first Harriet is a godsend, oddly anticipating what he needs and abating his worst rages. But when her stepfather accuses Duncan of ruining her, the scandal threatens everything he's salvaged from the wreckage of his life. For the sake of his country, Duncan agrees to marriage. With her secret gift of empathy, Harriet isn't so certain. She's falling in love with the impossible marquess, but dare she risk her wounded heart for a man who can't love her? And can Duncan learn to trust a woman whose voluptuous curves paralyze his good sense, but who is far more than she seems? "Known for her masterful talent for writing whimsy, humor and mayhem, Rice gives the reader a delightful romantic adventure in . . . her Unexpected Magic series"—Joan Hammond, RT Reviews 4 ½ stars