From Publishers Weekly
One of romance's most gifted authors, Layton (The Cad) here tells the story of the ethereally beautiful Gilly Giles, desired by many but deemed unmarriageable because she has neither fortune nor family (although she is, mysteriously, a nobleman's ward). When the malevolent rake Dearborne, seeking vengeance because Gilly has spurned him, announces to a crowded ball that he has seen her in a strange man's arms, Damon Ryder, newly returned from making his fortune in America, preserves Gilly's fragile reputation. Thinking quickly, Damon claims that he and Gilly are engaged; they must maintain the farce at least through the social season. During this time, Damon falls in love, and Gilly blossoms into full womanhood. Alas, two other men complicate affairs. One is the nobleman whom Gilly thinks she loves, the other a libertine eager to take advantage of her confused emotions. This is a top-notch Regency, told with flair and fraught with sexual tension. (Aug.) Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.



"Edith Layton understands the deepest emotions that rule the heart."



"I simply love this book."



"Pure enchantment."


Mary Jo Putney
Edith Layton writes pure enchantment. In The Choice, she creates two marvelous characters, Gilly and Damon, whose rare truth and honesty create a beautifully nuanced relationship. This is a book to read when your spirits need refreshing.


Patricia Rice, author of Blue Clouds
"The Choice brims with Edith's delicious wit and heart-warming characters. Gillian, the delightful misfit, is sure to charm her way into every reader's heart."


Joan Wolf, author of No Dark Place
I simply love this book. Two thumbs up!"


Book Description
Lady Of Beauty . . . And MysteryA lovely young woman whose ethereal beauty has enchanted the London ton, Miss Gillian Giles can combat a suitor's unwanted embrace with deadly efficiency. But her talent for self-protection can't help her stave off the most proper advances of one Damon Ryder, the Season's most eligible bachelor. Caught in a compromising position with him--one that could irreparably ruin her reputation--Gilly is dismayed when Damon unhesitatingly offers marriage. Most young ladies would be thrilled to land such a handsome, wealthy husband. Gilly, however, has a mind of her own--and more than a few secrets to hide. She believes marriage to Damon to be impossible, but Damon is equally determined to convince her otherwise. And if he isn't enough trouble, two other suitors, both charmingly irresistible, have now set their sights on winning her, too. Pursued by three devilishly persuasive men, how can the headstrong Gilly possibly resist falling in love?


About the Author
A native New Yorker, Edith Layton began writing at the age of ten.After graduating from Hunter College with a degree in theater and writing, she did publicity, PR, advertising, and promotion for various TV, radio and movie companies. She's the mother of three grown children and lives in Long Island.

FROM THE PUBLISHER

Lady Of Beauty . . . And Mystery

A lovely young woman whose ethereal beauty has enchanted the London ton, Miss Gillian Giles can combat a suitor's unwanted embrace with deadly efficiency. But her talent for self-protection can't help her stave off the most proper advances of one Damon Ryder, the Season's most eligible bachelor. Caught in a compromising position with him—one that could irreparably ruin her reputation—Gilly is dismayed when Damon unhesitatingly offers marriage.

Most young ladies would be thrilled to land such a handsome, wealthy husband. Gilly, however, has a mind of her own—and more than a few secrets to hide. She believes marriage to Damon to be impossible, but Damon is equally determined to convince her otherwise. And if he isn't enough trouble, two other suitors, both charmingly irresistible, have now set their sights on winning her, too. Pursued by three devilishly persuasive men, how can the headstrong Gilly possibly resist falling in love?

Author Biography:

A native New Yorker, Edith Layton began writing at the age of ten. After graduating from Hunter College with a degree in theater and writing, she did publicity, PR, advertising, and promotion for various TV, radio and movie companies. She's the mother of three grown children and lives in Long Island.

FROM THE CRITICS

Joan Wolf

I simply love this book.

Romantic Times

Edith Layton understands the deepest emotions that rule the heart.

Mary Jo Putney

Pure enchantment.

Publishers Weekly