The Defiant Mistress Author:Claire Thornton For eight years Gabriel Vaughan, Marquis of Halross, has believed he was duped by a clever, money-grabbing harlot. Left at the altar, he was to witness his betrothed in the arms of another man. Now a chance meeting in Venice brings all the old hurts and bitterness to the surface. Although Athena Frances Fairchild claims to be innocent, maybe ... more »this is just another of her deceptions. It's time to exact a little revenge. With Athena in need of a safe passage back to England, where once Gabriel would have been proud to have her accompany him as his wife, now he will insist she travel. . .as his mistress.« less