A review by lisajo85
Master of Sin by Maggie Robinson

4.0

Maggie Robinson's last installment in the Courtesan Court Series, MASTER OF SIN, is a wicked and sensual delight for romance readers. Ms Robinson pens a beautiful story with exquisite description and deeply emotional character development.

Andrew Rossiter has spent most of his life being used. Mostly for the pleasure he can provide in the bedroom, but now he has a son that is depending on him and must be kept out of harm's way. Forced to flee the tragic life he's known and go into hiding, Andrew tries to start a new life with the son. Unfortunately, he has no idea what he is up against when he meets Miss Gemma Peartree. Despite her claims that she would make an excellent governess for his son, Andrew strongly disagrees. She is distracting, she is stubborn and she is becoming absolutely irresistible. Yet Gemma is in for a challenge when she realizes Andrew's tough exterior will be hard to crack. Both have secrets and a dreadful past that haunts them still but their attraction grows stronger each day. While Andrew and Gemma share a striking passion, they must decide if that is enough to survive on. Or discover if damaged creatures like themselves will ever be capable of falling in love.

One thing that may be difficult to explain is how fascinating the hero was in MASTER OF SIN. Mainly because you expect the heroine to have the tainted past in this Courtesan series, but in this case, the hero is the one with the troubled history. He certainly has a past that would make most people blush, yet this tainted past that haunts Andrew is really what makes him such an interesting characters. He has a cold disposition that Gemma instantly sees through and she works to bring out the best qualities in this character. You can't help but feel an enchanting attraction to this complex character as he develops throughout the novel. Andrew is endearing because he thinks so little of himself, yet it's easy for the reader to see what an amazing man he is.

Gemma is fabulous to say the least. Her stubborn nature will make you smile with delight and laugh at the way it tears down Andrew's defenses. What is easy to admire about her character is the instinct that reinforces every decision she makes. Andrew does everything in his power to remove Gemma from his life and she refuses to take his bait. Every insight told her their connection was something worth fighting for. I loved her endless, fierce nature that never considered backing down from a challenge. She was tough, but she was also a gentle soul. Gemma's compassion and intelligence is what allowed her to bring out the light from the darkness that enveloped Andrew completely.

The focal point of MASTER OF SIN has to be the emotional development of both characters and their romance. Ms Robinson successfully crafts beautifully intimate characters that make your heart ache. Andrew and Gemma are two lost souls that discover each other's dark secrets and build a strong bond that shocks them both. I enjoyed it so because it easily displays how just one person can change another so much and for the better.

In addition to their story of romance is the heartwarming aspect of this tale in which Andrew is coming to terms with his new venture into fatherhood. Being a father does not come natural to Andrew, but he puts all of his efforts into being everything his son needs, only to encounter the doubt that he cannot. It was a beautiful addition to the story and one that will bring you near tears in one chapter and gloriously happy in another.

If I was to be absolutely honest, this novel doesn't have a stellar beginning. It jumps around a bit and makes things somewhat confusing. Ms Robinson uses a little too much detail for my taste, and draws out some scenes leading them to be slightly dull. Also, the beginning does not paint the hero in the best light. He is difficult to warm up to, but fortunately, that doesn't last too long. Soon enough I was addicted to this story and found it difficult to put down. Mainly because I've never encountered such an interesting pair and wanted desperately to know this story's conclusion.

You may have to dig a little bit for it, but once you gain a little ground in MASTER OF SIN, you will find a wonderful novel. Emotional, riveting and sinfully passionate, this novel will capture your heart and drive you wild. If you want that unique, yet fascinating historical romance, MASTER OF SIN will deliver. With sharp, wicked characters and hauntingly descriptive prose, Maggie Robinson's latest novel is sinfully grand indulgence and one you shouldn't miss.

Lisa Jo @ The Romance Reviews