This is a book I never wanted to end. One wouldn't think a historical romance mystery whodunit about sheep being poisoned would be a good one, but it is not only that -- it's a great one! From page one I was entranced by the writing style and the story. Later, I would find this was also a deeply sensual and sophisticated story with many layers. I loved it!
Lady Georgina Maitland, in the unique situation of owning land and having wealth, and has no need to marry. Her independence is both annoying and charming to those around her. When she travels to her estate with her land steward, Harry Pye to investigate the mysterious happenings going on she finds she is noticing him as a man - not just her servant. Caught in a rain storm, they take shelter together in intimate settings. Harry is a man in control of his emotions, but underneath there is a man whose ruffles can eventually be ruffled. Finding himself drawn to Georgina, a woman outside of his class, he knows the situation is becoming more and more complicated.
Her neighbor, Lord Granville's sheep are being poisoned and all signs point to Harry. But knowing his character as she does, Georgina scoffs at these accusations and protects him. But her angry neighbor, who has a history of his own with Harry, is having none of that. Everyone knows how much Harry hates him, and what lengths one might go to for revenge. Harry’s circumstances regarding his missing ring finger, his family ties to the Granville’s are still well-known in the area. Not only that, Harry’s small carvings he is known for are found at the scene of the crimes.
This book is surprisingly kind of raunchy (that's not a bad thing) and very explicit. Because Elizabeth Hoyt is such a classy writer, none of it is crass or crude, but accomplishes the goal of depicting two very in-love people. For those who like a sensual story, they will not be disappointed. Elizabeth Hoyt delivers!
As the plot thickens the reader keeps guessing on who was responsible for the sheep poisoning. The ending is a surprise and will keep you guessing.
So why is it called The Leopard Prince you may wonder? This author has the unique style of weaving a fairy tale with similarities to the main characters in it. As Lady Georgina tells this fairy tale to Harry throughout the story, you will see that the Leopard Prince is none other than her dear Harry.
This book is not to be missed. It's a keeper on the shelves and I can't think of one negative thing to say about it, it was really a delight from start to finish. The story is so well-written, the characters so engaging, that one would have to call Elizabeth Hoyt the new master of the historical romance genre.
