Two and a half years earlier, archeologist, Charlotte Fairchild lost her father to malaria, and a short time later, her husband Ian is killed in the collapsed entrance of a newly opened tomb. Charlotte blames herself for his death. If she'd willing gone back to England with him instead of insisting they stay on the dig and continue her father's work, he'd still be alive.

Since she's back in London, she once again has the distinct displeasure to meet Dylan Pierce. Dylan has a reputation as an archeologist, but one who is solely interested in getting rich quick, and not caring about history. There's a lot more to this man than gossip would have her believe.

Cynthia Kirk opens up a new/old world for romance readers and gives them a new direction to follow. Hot, dry and mysterious, the Valley of Amun-Ra sets the scene for this historical. Curses, one in the form of a desert cat that becomes Charlotte's guardian, rule the story and guide the plot through intrigue and romance. Charlotte is a strong heroine, determined to see her father's work acknowledged, despite adamant opposition. Dylan suffers from bouts of malaria, but that doesn't stop him from trying to solve a mystery. Through the years, Dylan has learned not to trust anyone, and such an attitude can cause serious damage to his growing relationship with Charlotte.

Secondary characters help carry the plot along, adding Egyptian flavor to the story. The confrontation of two cultures keeps the tension flowing until the mystery is solved. The Egyptian setting brings a new dimension to romance, and fires up the imagination with its plot twists.

Will the Lion capture the Lady? You'll have to read this story of desert, deception and desire to find out.