There's no plot I like more than reunited lovers or sweethearts. Maria Martingale had a crush on the younger brother of the Marques of Kayne - more than a crush, for they planned to elope. No doubt they would have if not for the intervention of said Marquess of Kayne, one Phillip Hawthorne.

It would have been a pure scandal had word gotten out that any member of the royal family so much as touched any of the servants intimately. Phillip Hawthorne did what he had to do - sent little Maria on her way with a hefty check in her pocket and strict orders not to come into contact with his family - or his heart - again.

It is a surprise twelve years later, then, when Maria unknowingly rents out the bakery shop right next door to where the Marquess of Kayne is residing for the season. His strict policy is to behave like a gentleman of the royal family at all costs, so that is why Phillip evicts Maria on the spot. God knows she will be a temptation he could not resist twice. But Maria has already taken a fancy to the bakery's kitchen and will not be deterred in making her delicious pastries in a cook's dream kitchen.

Maria and Phillip's love progresses gradually. The heartrendingly funny flashbacks make you smile here, nod your head in understanding of the setbacks there. This novel is a keeper, and I cannot recommend it more. I believe Secret Desires of a Gentleman is part of a series; I hope it is.

Secret Desires of a Gentleman made me sigh, it made me laugh, and - yes - it made me cry. I hadn't heard of Laura Lee Guhrke before, but you can bet your last dollar that I won't forget her name, and I'll be waiting for her next book. It's been long since I came across such an endearing read as Secret Desires of a Gentleman. Guhrke brings so much emotion to these characters.