Shanna

Shanna Trahern, the pampered and beautiful daughter of a wealthy island plantation owner, finds herself in desperate need of a husband to satisfy her father's ultimatum and secure her inheritance. In a bold and unconventional move, she strikes a bargain with Ruark Beauchamp, a condemned prisoner awaiting execution: marry her in name only, and she'll ensure his final days are comfortable. What begins as a cold business arrangement takes an unexpected turn when Ruark miraculously escapes death and reappears on her father's Caribbean plantation, very much alive and determined to claim his rights as her husband. Set against the lush backdrop of 18th-century colonial Virginia and the Caribbean, this sweeping historical romance explores themes of pride, passion, and the clash between societal expectations and genuine desire. As Shanna and Ruark are forced into close proximity, their initial animosity gives way to an undeniable attraction that threatens to unravel Shanna's carefully constructed independence and Ruark's mysterious past. Woodiwiss delivers her signature blend of adventure, sensuality, and rich historical detail, creating a compelling story about two strong-willed individuals who must navigate their complex relationship amid pirates, tropical storms, and the rigid social hierarchies of colonial society. Fans of classic bodice-rippers will appreciate the intense chemistry between the protagonists and the epic scope of this passionate tale of love conquering pride.