A captivating story of romance, passion and adventure set in nineteenth century London and Italy.
London 1859. Carina Temple has put away the stifling black crepe demanded by the death of her father – but with it she has also cast aside society’s expectations of what a single young lady should be and do.
When Carina’s uncle summons her to Belgrave Square to inform her that her reputation is ruined, thanks to a certain Lord Danby, he tells her that she must travel to Italy until the gossip recedes and a suitable match can be found for her.
But Italy is a tempestuous place – her grandmother and cousins soon tell her of the fault lines between the states and the dangerous rebels fighting for freedom. Chief among these is Ben Mavrone – and when he and Carina meet, he distrusts her society pedigree, and she considers him a violent extremist.
When trouble comes to Carina’s door, it is Ben who saves her – reluctantly – and as they go on the run, they must learn to understand each other to stay alive.
Meanwhile back in England, Carina’s family has plans for the life Miss Temple should lead – if she ever returns…
Embark on a sweeping journey of love, betrayal, and revolution with "An Italian Scandal: Fall in love with this summer's most gripping historical novel" by Cecil Cameron. Transporting you to the heart of 19th-century London and the sun-drenched landscapes of Italy, this captivating historical romance weaves a tale of a woman defying societal expectations and finding love in the most unexpected of places. In London, 1859, Carina Temple is determined to forge her own path. Mourning her father, she sheds the restrictive customs of Victorian society, much to the disapproval of her social circle. When a scandalous rumor, fueled by the machinations of the enigmatic Lord Danby, threatens to ruin her reputation, Carina's uncle swiftly dispatches her to Italy, hoping to quell the gossip and secure a suitable marriage. However, Italy proves to be far more than a temporary refuge. Carina finds herself embroiled in the turbulent world of Italian unification, a nation simmering with revolutionary fervor. Her extended family, with their own secrets and loyalties, expose her to the dangerous fault lines dividing the Italian states and the passionate fight for freedom. Enter Ben Mavrone, a charismatic and dedicated rebel leader. He views Carina with suspicion, seeing her as a product of the privileged society he so vehemently opposes. Carina, in turn, dismisses him as a reckless extremist. Yet, fate has other plans. When danger strikes, it is Ben who unexpectedly rescues Carina, forcing them into a perilous alliance. As they flee across the Italian countryside, they are compelled to confront their prejudices and find common ground in their shared struggle for survival. Their initial distrust slowly melts away, replaced by an undeniable attraction that defies their vastly different backgrounds. As Carina witnesses Ben's unwavering commitment to his cause and his deep compassion for his people, she begins to question everything she thought she knew about love, loyalty, and her own place in the world. But with Carinas life now deeply entwined with Bens, her family back in London has schemes for her to return to the old life. Cecil Cameron masterfully crafts a vibrant and evocative world, rich in historical detail and brimming with compelling characters. The story is a delightful experience that explores complex themes of family, freedom, and the courage to defy expectations. Carina's journey of self-discovery is as inspiring as her forbidden romance with Ben is breathtaking. "An Italian Scandal" is a truly irresistible read for fans of historical fiction, romantic suspense, and stories of strong women who dare to challenge the status quo. Prepare to be swept away by this unforgettable novel that will stay with you long after you turn the final page. Perfect for readers who enjoy authors like Lisa Kleypas, Sarah MacLean, and Julia Quinn, but with a thrilling edge of political intrigue. This summer, lose yourself in the passion and adventure of "An Italian Scandal"!