The Sweetest Season — Elizabeth Cole

'Tis the season for seductive sweetnessIn 1816, Beatrice Holliday works as a confectioner in the bustling city of Philadelphia, and her treats are in demand for the season's parties. But hardly anyone sees Beatrice herself, since she hides in her kitchen, afraid to show her face to the world. Noel Forrest suffered in the War of 1812, and now lives aloof and alone, not even able to paint as he used to. When he is given a box of Beatrice's exquisite chocolates, he's impressed. But he finds himself even more intrigued by the woman who made them. His taste for pleasure reawakened, Noel begins a sensual seduction of Beatrice, offering a simple challenge. He'll give her a flavor, and she'll make a treat. She'll give him a color, and he'll paint a picture. The game grows more passionate with every exchange, but both Noel and Beatrice have hidden pasts that threaten to create the scandal of the season!