_Satin and Steel_ is not only slow moving but it seems to drone on and on without a point in sight. Compared to the other book I've read by Catherine Hart, it was almost as if someone else had written it. I suppose that could be because this book was written approximately ten years ago. It is quite obvious to me from a recent book of her's that I have read that she has matured considerably from her writing in this book. Though one thing was very clear in both books -- her ability to capture a scene full of drama and transport you right into the middle of the action. This is apparent only in about the last 150 pages, but you are given a glimpse of Ms. Hart's burgeoning talent. The characters are another matter altogether. Brandon is quite headstrong, almost to the point of being annoying and Laurel is really quite vain. Add to that the fact that Laurel's father is a horrid man and her aunt, though meaning well, keeps things from her and you have a cast of characters that are all together not likable. About two-thirds of the dialogue will have you rolling your eyes and the main characters really have no chemistry. I had trouble believing these two loved each other and weren't just interested in sex. The only reason I was saved from giving this book two stars was the fact that it was really a unique premise, one not often covered in the romance genre. I'll definitely read more of Ms. Hart's work because of how much I enjoyed her book, _Horizons_, but this one will be going back to the used bookstore.