The first romance novel I ever read was Hearts Aflame by Johanna Lindsey. Being a teen and being intrigued primarily by the erotic appeals of the genre, I was blind to the absurd plots and atrocious writing. Some of JL's early books were pretty good. You could tell that, although it was basic formula writing, effort was made to add a unique flare. She is the only romance author I have ever read so I can only compare her to herself, but I must say that I don't believe her heart is in it any more.
Wow... looking back now to find something to say about the contents of the book I am realizing that I can't even remember who the characters were. And it's only been a month since I read it! What does that tell you about the book?
The characters were flat, the plot unrealistic, and the language dull. She's not even attempting any more to make the characters fit in their time. She's writing because she knows the books will sell. Nearing the fifty book mark has really sapped her for ideas. Can't say I recommend this book. Skip over to the next.

I have been in love with Johanna Lindsey's work since I was 14 (12 years). I own all of her books and have re-read all of them numerous times. "Marriage Most Scandalous" is the first Lindsey book I was dissappointed by. I was vastly relieved that Ms. Lindsey's subsequent novels - both of the Malory series - have continued with the excitement and passion that she is known for.

I read this book during a sick leave and I must say it was so good I read it in 2 days, no exagerationi. Started at 8 am read till 11 pm took 2 advil ( reading headache - ya think ?) then continued on till 1 am and started again the next day till i finished it. I'm quite surprised by the disappointing review written on the Hardcover selection. I really tougth it was a great book and so did everyone I lent it to.

Johanna Lindsey was THE author who piloted me into the realm of romance heaven. She was THE author that completely hooked me and she opened a whole new world of enjoyment. For that - I am eternally grateful. So it is with heavy heart that I review Johanna's latest entry.

Lady Margaret Landor remembers Sebastian Townshend as a tall, dashing, and charming bachelor. Never did she dream that one day she would hire him to save HIS OWN father. Although Sebastian Townshend has forged a new identity, Maggie is certain he will come home, but Sebastian Townsend has vowed never to return to England.

His own father banished Sebastian Townshend. His heartbreaking exile was the result of a tragic duel - a duel his father, the Earl of Edgewood, cautioned against - emphatically! Now living on the continent, Sebastian Townsend is The Raven - a deadly mercenary and Lady Margaret Landor needs his help.

Like most of Lindsey's recent books, MARRIAGE MOST SCANDALOUS is unfortunate. Heavy use of repetition assembles a bumpy jagged storyline! So much of the book is spent trying to develop a conspiracy there is little build-up time for romance. The fake marriage is nothing but the author's excuse to get sensual passion into the story, unfortunately the reader never feels that emotion! And believing the story's passion is this genre's foundation!

Sadly, 'Love a Lindsey' was once the rallying cry among romance fans. Alas, not anymore. WHY? I want to know why! Johanna Lindsey still has the talent to write, but it seems she has misplaced her technique! WHY?

"If it ain't broke . . . don't fix it!"

Please Johanna, reexamine your legendary PRISONER OF MY DESIRE, GENTLE ROGUE and TENDER REBEL and rediscover your formula - your tried and true formula. P.l.e.a.s.e. . . Please go back to your roots!

Grade: C- . . . July 4, 2005.