Stephanie Laurens has enchanted growing legions of fans with her sweeping tales of the magnetic Cynster men and the women who love them. With this new novel, she creates her most irrisistible story yet, the tale of Sebastian and Helena, the Duke and Duchess of St. Ives - the lovers who began it all.

Sheltered in a French convent school, Helena has little knowledge of men. But that changes one snowy Christmas Eve when she unexpectedly meets a mesmerizing Englishman who leaves her with a powerful kiss.

Grown into a stunning beauty, Helena cannot forget that forbidden kiss. Now, though, she must put aside her dreams and marry, an obligation that takes her to London.

There she is determined to meet Society's most eligible bachelor, Sebastian, Duke of St. Ives, a man sworn never to wed. But when they are introduced, Helena is shocked...for Sebastian is none other than her wild Englishman.

The New York Times-bestselling author makes her triumphant hardcover debut in this sparkling new tale that reveals how the beloved Cynster dynasty began - the perfect holdiay gift!

"This is a wonderful and enchanting tale of a love that would not be denied, of a stubborn woman and an equally determined man whose battle of wills and sensual games will heat up readers' nights. Ms. Laurens sweeps us into a grand romance tinged with mystery and brought to the boiling point with slowly rising sexual tension. This is truly a holiday gift from Ms. Laurens to all her fans."
Kathe Robin, Romantic Times

"Entertaining... Lots and lots of tastefully erotic loves scenes for those who like their Regencies a little less ladylike." Kirkus

"Laurens manipulates the sexual tension between her dark, dangerous hero and her clever heroine into sensually charged love scenes, and the book's swashbuckling climax, worthy of Dumas, should please readers who like a bit of adventure along with a passionate love story."
John Charles, Booklist

"Stephanie Laurens has brought explosive meetings and wooings to a fine art. Well written with sensuality, good humor, and a touch of suspense, THE PROMISE IN A KISS is a worthy prequel to the Cynster novels - it would make a welcome Christmas gift for any romance reader. Are you listening, Santa?"
Jane Bowers, Romance Reviews Today

"The pair who started the entire Cynster saga finally have their own story and a captivating one it is. This Christmas volume is just right for curling up by the fire on a cold winter's night."
Sue Burke, Old Book Barn Gazette