Joining
by Johanna Lindsey
Publisher:  Avon Books, Inc.
Copyright:  1999
Book Club Edition

Seldom have two people about to join together in holy matrimony been so ill-disposed toward one another -- or their families so intent upon their union.  Milisant Crispin's beauty is exceeded by her boldness, hardly an endearing feminine quality to the handsome, arrogant Wulfric de Thrope, the future Earl of Shefford, who would prefer a more biddable wife.  When Wulfric arrives at Dunburh Castle to claim his promised bride, he expects to find the wild, impudent young girl he knew as a child.  But before him stands a stunning eighteen-year-old beauty:  still hunting with a bow and speaking her mind, but possessed of a passionate fire that could consume any man close enough to feel its warmth.

Her father has decreed that Milisant have a month to accustom herself to the future earl before the marriage takes place.  As the time dwindles, Milisant desperately searches for a way out of the marriage.  Yet even as she resists, she cannot deny the strange stirrings which the highhanded knight of the realm arouses in her.  For Wulfric's part, he is falling under a spell himself, cast by the proud, strong woman who will be pledged to him against her will in a few short days.  But even as the joining of these two young people draws nearer, so too does a threat of danger that could destroy much more than a planned ceremony.

In this most unlikely union, Johanna Lindsey has created two unforgettable characters tied together by circumstance, but sharing a boundless passion that will force them to search their hearts -- and surrender to a yearning far beyond their control.

Condition:  Used.  Hardcover.  Dust cover is lightly discolored and shows light edge wear.  Back dust cover flap is creased.  Pages may be tanning from age.