The Tempting of Thomas Carrick

#1 New York Times bestselling author Stephanie Laurens returns to Scotland with a tale of two lovers irrevocably linked by destiny and passion. Thomas Carrick is a gentleman driven to control all aspects of his life. As the wealthy owner of Carrick Enterprises, located in bustling Glasgow, he is one of that citys most eligible bachelors and fully intends to select an appropriate wife from the many young ladies paraded before him. He wants to take that necessary next step along his self-determined path, yet no young lady captures his eye, much less his attentionnot in the way Lucilla Cynster does. For over two years, Thomas has avoided his clans estate because it borders Lucillas home, but disturbing reports from his clansmen force him to return to the countrysideonly to discover that his uncle, the laird, is ailing, a clan family is desperately ill, and the clan healer is unconscious and dying. Duty to the clan leaves Thomas no choice but to seek help from the last woman he wants to face. Strong-willed and passionate, Lucilla has been waitingincreasingly impatientfor Thomas to return and claim his rightful place by her side. She knows he is hersher fated lover, husband, protector, and mate. He is the only man for her, just as she is his one true love. And, at last, hes back. Even though his returning wasnt on her account, Lucilla is willing to seize whatever chance fate hands her. And while she cannot command him, she has powerful enticements shes willing to wield in the cause of tempting Thomas Carrick.