Inspired by the tale of The Ugly Duckling, a hot historical romance novella from the acclaimed Fiery Tales series. Reputed for his carnal skills, notorious rake, Joseph d'Alumbert, prefers amorous encounters without any sort of emotional entanglement--until a most unique lady stirs tender feelings . . . and hot desire. Emilie de Sarron suffered burns to her body as an infant, and keeps her scars--and her heart--well hidden. But Joseph is determined to peel away her inhibitions, one slow, sensuous kiss at a time, to reveal the beautiful swan inside... ***Can be enjoyed as a stand-alone. Originally published in THE PRINCESS IN HIS BED anthology.