This image is the cover for the book Scandalous Secret, Defiant Bride

Scandalous Secret, Defiant Bride

Some call Christina Thornton spoilt, others simply call her beautiful. But one thing's for certain: she's a young woman firmly in charge of her own destiny…or so she thinks!

When the dark-hearted Count Marchesi rides into town, it is to claim Miss Thornton as his bride. Christina's stubborn protests are of no use, for her future is in the hands of this brooding Italian. But how long can willful Christina resist her passionate husband when her heart is urging her to give in?

Helen Dickson

Helen Dickson lives in South Yorkshire with her retired farm manager husband. On leaving school she entered the nursing profession, which she left to bring up a young family. Having moved out of the chaotic farmhouse, she has more time to indulge in her favourite pastimes. She enjoys being outdoors, travelling, reading and music. An incurable romantic, she writes for pleasure. It was a love of history that drove her to writing historical romantic fiction.

Harlequin