1901 promises to be the dawn of a new age, and Vassar-educated socialite Charlotte Benington pursues her dream of painting in Paris, France. Despite the constant matchmaking machinations of her chaperone, she has no interest in such ordinary matters as romance, love and, worst of all, marriage. All that changes when Paul de Sainte enters her life and tips her narrow world upside down.

The handsome, aristocratic, passionate Paul is also an artist, and he sets out to challenge Charlotte's fundamental beliefs about life, love, art--and desire. Charlotte finds herself both attracted by Paul's talent and frightened by the intensity of the hunger he awakens within her. 

Passions run hot, and events spiral out of control when obsession turns dangerous. Paul captures his beautiful muse in a daring escapade, determined to make her his wife. Will he be able to convince Charlotte that her true freedom lies in his arms...or will he scare her even further away?

Genre: Erotic Historical [contains graphic sexual content and adult language]
Length:  Novel (30,000 words)

5 Blue Ribbons: "Kate September's writing sparkles. Her characters are vivid and lifelike. The heat between Charlotte and Paul was positively flaming. One scene in particular will melt your hard drive (small hint: think Demi and Patrick working with clay in Ghost). This is one short story that will leave you completely satisfied.  Paul is full of fire and passion. The intensity of his emotions will burn your fingers as you turn the pages. He can be summed up in one word: YUMMY! 
     La Belle Epoque: Portrait of Desire is the first in a series by Kate September. If this book is anything to go by, then I am already eagerly awaiting the other two. Ms. September gives us an alluring glimpse at a bygone era, a time filled with passions that never go out of style. --Belle Rouge, Romance Junkies

5 Flowers/Superior: "I loved this book. Paul's intensity and passion for Charlotte just screamed off the pages. Yet, I could really understand Charlottes fear of letting herself go with such a strong, alpha male. As a reader, I found myself urging her to submit to him while hoping that she held strong. Paul's resolution was unexpected and shocking, but as a woman, I sighed, wishing that someone would love me enough to do the same. I can heartily recommend this book to anyone who loves romance. Sensually written and full of emotion, Kate September has penned a story that should be on everyone's reading list. I can't wait to read the others in this series!" --Char, May Reviews/Enchanted in Romance

4 Stars, 2006 Reviewers' Choice Award Nominee: "Portrait of Desire is a compelling story of one young woman determined to be true to herself. Kate September did a beautiful job bringing all the characters to life. You really felt what Charlotte and Paul felt. A blossoming artist, Charlotte liked to paint pictures. Kate is equally adept at paining pictures through her words. Fantastic job for Kate September. --Elise, Ecataromance