Into Temptation by Penny Vincenzi, (Orion, £6.99).

THE problem with this book is that once picked up the temptation is not to put it down.

This final - and the best - part of the trilogy The Spoils of Time is another compelling tale from Vincenzi.

Although, it could be read with equal fascination in isolation, of its sister volumes.

Once again, all the characters just come alive on each page and the story is full of intrigue, drama, love, laughter, tears, passion and pain.

Into Temptation follows the Lytton family after the Second World War. Oliver Lytton has died and Celia, now in her 70s and newly-remarried to Lord "Bunny" Arden, must decide whether the time is right to leave Lyttons, the publishing house that has been her life.

Much of the drama centres upon Barty Miller, adopted by Lady Celia as a girl. She heads her own company in New York and is wealthier than all the Lyttons. Rich and powerful she holds the family's future in her hands.

Celia's children - Giles, the twins Adele and Venetia, and Kit - are now parents themselves and as the 1950s unfold their children take centre stage.

Then, something dreadful happens which threatens them all and, as it turns the dynasty upside down manages to seduce the reader into spending long hours stuck into this feast of fiction.

A riveting and novel read, it keeps you guessing right up to the end.

Beverly Abbs