Dark Torment (Paperback)

At the age of twenty-two, Sarah Markham is highly unlikely to receive any offers of marriage because of her plain exterior. She is mortified when she stumbles upon the brutal flogging of convict Dominic Gallaher. Realizing that she alone holds the key to his survival, she ultimately makes the decision to intervene and stop the savage beating. She then enlists the aid of her father to purchase Dominic's freedom.

Life has hardened his heart . . . Fate has torn at his soul . . .Can one woman shed light on his dark future?

Dominic Gallaher was convicted to serve fifteen years for robbery. A reclusive troublemaker, he finds himself the unlucky recipient of 200 deadly lashes. He is surprised, however, by the plain spinster, Sarah Markham, who spares his life. Having purchased his freedom, she now "owns" him. Could she be the one person capable of taming the dark demons that have taken hold of his savage heart?

Karen Robards' descriptive words flow effortlessly off the pages. With highly enriched passages, smoothly enhanced dialogue, and a superb plot, this story will carry you away to a lush, primitive land. I found myself dreading the last page because I knew it meant that my pleasurable journey had come to an end. This one comes highly recommended -- WARNING: Be prepared to read in one sitting.

Dominic is proud, handsome and rebellious. He is mysteriously delectable. The more you read and learn about him, the more you'll get hooked! He is seductive and manly. Dominic's childhood and his life before he arrived in Australia was an interesting one. Meanwhile, the plain & simple looking, Sara, is a typical Mistress - Uppity, bossy and feisty...but she's fair and kind hearted too. I understand her confusions and her difficulty in accepting her feelings for Dominic, he was a convict and was considered beneath her station afterall. The consequences would be dire and scandalous. She wasn't prepared to acknowledge it. She always treat convicts and servants with respect. She is always patient & level headed except to one person, Dominic. He just seems to know the right button to push to infuriate her. I like the way Dominic teases her. I like the way he seduces her, to help her lossen up and feel the passion. Karen Robards created a well developed characters in this book (esp. the H/H) --> They are both very different in so many ways yet perfect for each other. The ending of this book is wonderful.

Aside from the H/H love story, the action twist is very stirring. This book is well blended-passionate romances, humor, action thrills, heart warming situations, unexpected twist, luscious detailed sex scenes, and even a wholesome father-daughter story. It sure is worth my time! My only regret is that I should have read it sooner.