Bantam, Apr 2002, 5.99, 385 pp.
ISBN: 0553584154
In 1898 Havana, archeologist Viscount Derek Carlise visits the home of wealthy Don Geraldo de Vargas. Derek is not making a social call though he employs the full diplomacy of the English aristocratic class to hide his real mission. Derek plans to steal a journal that contains information on sunken treasure if he cannot purchase the item from the money strapped Don, struggling with the American blockade of the island.
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However, entertainer Rosa Wright performs an ultra sexy Flamenco dance as a distraction while she robs the key ring to the collection that includes the journal before Don and Derek begin their negotiations. Don accuses Derek of the theft and incarcerates him in the dungeon below his home. Feeling guilty, Rosa frees Derek. They sail off to adventure and love with Don in pursuit.
PROMISE OF GOLD is an exciting romantic adventure tale that is as much action as romance yet the action subplot is not neglected. Instead the author insures the romance between the lead characters is woven throughout the treasure hunt theme. Derek is a fine hero even if he is a bit too much of a control freak. Still, the novel belongs to the fiery Rosa. She takes everyone down a peg or two while displaying courage to seek the treasure and her man. Kristen Kyle has written a bold tale that brings the Caribbean alive reminiscent of a late nineteenth century Romancing the Stone.
Harriet Klausner
The review of this Book prepared by Harriet Klausner