The Elusive Smuggler

 The Elusive Smuggler, Antoinette George, Brangwyn Press, 2020

First of a series, this book is set in 1790 France. Marie-Catherine de Mornay, and Edouard, her brother, are desperately searching for a shadowy individual about which they have only heard rumors. Their parents have been thrown into prison; it has nothing to do with the approaching Revolution. If "The Shadow" can't get their parents out of prison, and all of them out of France, then no one can. As an extra complication, Edgar Bernheim, the regional Governor, wants The Shadow out of the way, permanently. His corrupt plans have been disrupted too often.

The two meet in a gypsy camp. Marie-Catherine challenges The Shadow (whose "day job" is as an English duke) to a duel with rapiers. The sexual tension between is immediate, and overflowing. Marie-Catherine is the winner. Can she convince The Shadow to help them? Can two strong-willed people give in to each other?

This is a really good story. It has action, romance and adventure. It also has a female protagonist who knows what she wants, and will do whatever it takes to get it. This will certainly keep the reader entertained.