“And Then She Fell” by Stephanie Laurens (Avon, 344 pgs., $7.99)

For many years, Stephanie Laurens fans have devoured anything tied to the Cynsters, and this time, they will enjoy every bite of this delicious romantic suspense.

The romance, and glimpse at characters from past beloved stories, is much stronger than the intrigue. Chances are, readers will solve the case much sooner than the characters. Of course, the Cynsters and their assorted friends and in-laws didn’t have the benefit of “Law and Order” and “CSI” to draw their expertise from. But even if you figure out the identity of the villain, the intrigue is still suspenseful enough to keep you riveted. If not, the antics of James and Henrietta, and their burgeoning relationship, will keep you engrossed.

James needs a wife. Not unusual for a member of the peerage in 1837 England, but his reasons are a bit different, and a bit more urgent. A dear relative made him his heir, but with the stipulation that he must marry within a year of his death.

Henrietta Cynster foils his first attempt at securing a bride. Once she hears James’ tale, she agrees to help him find a bride. Guess what they discover?

Yep, it doesn’t take long at all for each to figure out the other is their fated soul mate. Delightfully, it doesn’t take all that long for each to figure out the other feels the same way.

Roughly half-way through the story, James and Henrietta have found romantic bliss. But the fate of their happily-ever-after depends on whether they can foil the villain. What is awesome is that they enlist the assistance of the Cynster clan — and they embark on their investigation as a betrothed couple.