The Lodestone

Innocent Cleome Parker is unprepared for Drake Stoneham, an arrogant gambler who, in a card game, wins her grandfather’s inn. Her mother is an invalid, and Cleome must provide for her whatever the cost. As the illegitimate offspring of a madwoman, she has always been an outcast but she convinces the handsome gambler to hire her as innkeeper. Drawn to Drake like steel to a lodestone, Cleome fights her desire for him as their daring adventures take them across 1830s England, plunge them into political intrigue, and inflame the passion between them again and again. “The Lodestone is the best I’ve ever read . . . warm, compelling characters and a fast-paced, richly layered plot involving her feminist heroine in the social issues of her day. Charlene Keel can flat-out write!”—Peggy Webb, bestselling author. “A well thought-out trip back in time. The characters are fascinating. Perfect book to lose yourself in for a while."—Romance Junkies “This compelling story is filled with rich detail of 1800s England, bringing to life the society intrigues of that time. Using realistic dialogue and mannerisms, the characters are expertly brought to life.”—Coffee Time Romance