Review & Giveaway: A Proper Scandal by Esther Hatch

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

Synopsis

Grace Sinclair has been callously cast out of her home. And though taken in as an orphaned child by the vicar and his wife, her unsurpassed beauty makes it impossible for her to remain in the vicar’s household—with two daughters of their own about to enter Society, the vicar and his wife see Grace as nothing but competition. Thankfully, Grace’s estranged Aunt Bell has agreed to take her in to her home in London. But Grace soon learns her situation has just gotten much worse.

It takes only a moment’s acquaintance for Grace to ascertain that her aunt has married a detestable rake. And Aunt Bell, recognizing the danger of having her lovely niece too near her husband, gives Grace an ultimatum: the young woman has two weeks to find a man to marry, after which she will be turned out. With no experience in the art of attracting a husband, Grace quickly realizes that a worthy suitor might not be so easy to ensnare.

My Review

Grace is in quite a mess! I loved her tenacity despite her discomfort with her circumstances. She desperately misses her parents, but realizes that nobody is there to save her, she must make the best of it and choose the path that will determine how the rest of her life turns out. She has her sights set on Nate, and even though he is determined to never be taken advantage of by a scheming woman again, he can't resist her sweet personality and genuine compassion. They had a fun meet-cute that set the stage for the informal banter they enjoy for the rest of the book. I loved the contrasts in the characters and story that makes them question what is real, what are everyone's secrets, and how on earth is everything going to turn out?! Strong characterization and the steady pace of the interesting plot made this a book I couldn't put down! Highly recommend!!!

(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)


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Review: The Beauty (Ladies of Miss Bell's Finishing School) by Rebecca Connolly

My rating: 3 stars / I liked it

Synopsis

Caroline Perkins cannot claim much in her life other than the dowry her uncle arranged for her and her physical beauty. Raised on the London docks, she bears the burden of being a tradesman’s daughter, and not one of respectability. In leaving Miss Bell’s School for Young Ladies, Caroline is leaving the only friends she has known and the only safe place she has lived. But she knows her companionship with Lady Ashby could give her the connections and opportunities she needs to secure a good future for herself. If her past does not return to haunt her present and future, that is.
 
Will Debenham isn’t certain what he is looking for in his life, but from the moment he sees Caroline Perkins, he is certain he has found it. Every interaction with her only enhances the feeling, and every day in her company makes him want her more. But can the son of an earl really marry a tradesman’s daughter? Or will station, birth, and Caroline’s own resistance keep them apart?

My Review

This is a sweet Regency story, but I wished for more in the way of plot and personality. The focus of the book is on Caroline's role as companion and her opportunity to find a husband as such. She was a bland character, and even as I attempted to find more interesting attributes about her, Will described her perfectly: "You are always so calm, so stalwart, so unaffected. You possess an unnatural serenity." She does feel the insults of others keenly, but instead of standing up for herself, she accepts it and even internalizes the belief that she is of less worth and undeserving. I was disappointed that she didn't have more of a backbone, although this is probably realistic of many women of the time who are victims of the precedence of status and birth in society. Will sees beyond all that and cherishes her for her beauty and grace, despite her unfortunate circumstances. My issue with him is that he observed her abuse and didn't do much to stand up for her either. He struggles with his desire to break out of his role as a gentleman, but doesn't take the opportunity to do so when she is in need of his help. I kept reading to the end to see how their happy ending would come about, and the final scene was lovely and emotional.

(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)

Ladies of Miss Belle's Finishing School series:

Review: Behind the Light of Golowduyn by Deborah M. Hathaway

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

Synopsis

She’s the keeper of Golowduyn Lighthouse. He’s the captain who shipwrecked on her watch. A marriage of convenience can save her home—if secrets don’t destroy it first.

Abigail Moore will do anything to keep Golowduyn Lighthouse shining brightly, even if she must do so alone. When a shipwreck occurs near her home one stormy evening—bringing with it a dashing captain keen to offer his aid at every turn—her days of isolation vanish.

Captain Gavin Kendricks didn’t expect to end his naval career by crashing his ship against the rugged cliffs of Cornwall. When he’s pulled from the sea by the fearless and quick-tempered Miss Moore, a tentative friendship forms between them, and he begins to realize what has been missing from his life.

Before either of them can explore these newfound stirrings, death and deception hit Golowduyn, and Abigail is left with a choice. Either she loses everything she has ever loved, or she marries the captain and accepts his help. Unable to give up the lighthouse, she agrees to the union, and they work together to see that the light does not diminish. But when her childhood secrets are unearthed, and their property falls victim to troubling defacement, their marriage threatens to crumble. Gavin fights to gain her confidence, but only Abigail can forget the crippling memories of her past to trust Gavin with Golowduyn—and her heart.

My Review

I loved the setting in this story with great character development and a riveting plot. There's something special about lighthouses as they stand as a beacon in the storms. Abigail is overworked as she unofficially takes on the role of main keeper from her uncle, but is devoted to the lighthouse and its purpose. I admired her strength and stubbornness which was tempered by her insecurity about her past. Gavin quickly becomes a good friend to her uncle, but it was interesting how Abigail felt jealousy towards their rapport and felt left out and unappreciated by her uncle. She deals with complicated emotions during this time of upheaval as secrets are revealed in the aftermath of unexpected tragedy. I loved how Gavin is a source of strength and refuge for her as she humbles herself to accept his help and open her heart to a deeper friendship and relationship. His positive personality brings light and humor to the story and balances out the darker themes. This book was a pleasure to read and I highly recommend it to fans of historical fiction!

(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)

Review: Spinster and Spice by Rebecca Connolly

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

Synopsis

Spinster, sweet Spinster 
 
Isabella Lambert is a nice person. She is biddable, polite, soft-spoken, and eager to please. She also happens to be a spinster, and one of the writers of the infamous Spinster Chronicles, where she is less polite, more outspoken, and may not please anyone. Izzy also has a secret that only one person knows, and that one person may hold the key to its success.

Sebastian Morton finds Izzy Lambert fascinating. She is the perfect mentor for his younger sister as well as a capable and charming friend for him. When opportunity strikes to spend more time with her, her secret becomes his. But will this secret, and others, ruin their connection?


My Review

The Spinster Chronicles is a fun series full of friendly banter and vibrant personalities. It was nice to get to know Izzy better and learn about why she has found herself as a doormat for her family, which bled into her social life in Society as well. I loved that Sebastian recognizes that there is more to her and encourages her to stand up for herself and her feelings. It takes some effort and some practice, but eventually she is able to demonstrate to herself and others that just because she's nice doesn't mean that she can be taken advantage of. While mentoring his sister during her debut brings them together more often, it is her storytelling talent that she has turned into a secret endeavor to be published that draws them even closer together. Their sweet romance is charming and full of chemistry, but not without conflict. This installment of the Chronicles kept me entertained and happy with the development of both plot and characters.

(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)

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Don't miss the first two books in the Spinster Chronicles series . . .

Book Tour Grand Finale: The Cowboy's Perfect Match by Cathy McDavid

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

Book Tour Grand Finale for

The Cowboy's Perfect Match

By Cathy McDavid

We hope you enjoyed the tour! If you missed any of the stops

you'll find snippets, as well as the link to each full post, below:

Launch - Note from the Author

. . . I promise you, my blog tour will be tons of fun. I’ll be sharing not only excerpts from the book but some “facts” about my imaginary western-themed wedding venue and B&B. There’ll also be a giveaway at the end for one lucky winner. So, grab your partner, and let’s get started!

—Cathy

Becky on Books - Review

"I really enjoyed Bridget and Ryan’s story. There were almost as many LOL moments as there were swoony ones–a great balance. . . . This is the second book in the series (The Sweetheart Ranch) but it worked just fine as a standalone. . . . Sign me up for the next book, too!"

It's All About the Romance - Excerpt

“You could join me.” His grin widened, and he raised his china plate. “If you haven’t eaten yet.”

Of all the nerve! He was flirting with her.

When she first glimpsed him, she’d thought how lucky his wife was to marry a tall, good-looking man like him. If not for the fact he was a groom, she’d have mistaken him for one of the local cowboys, what with his well-fitting Wranglers, scuffed boots, Western work shirt and Stetson, which he’d removed and hung on the antique hat rack in the corner.

Andi's Book Reviews - Review

"I was so happy to see that there was another book from The Sweetheart Ranch available! I loved the first book and wish that I could go visit such a place. . . . there is something magical about that Sweetheart Ranch that creates some wonderfully romantic stories that you'll enjoy reading. And this is a clean contemporary romance, so no worries there."

Rockin' Book Reviews - Review

"This is a wonderful story with a sweet romance. . . . I highly recommend this heart warming romance." - Vicky

"The author has creatively portrayed the "ups and downs" of life in this stimulating tale of two lives coming together, only to be torn apart again through unexpected circumstances. . . . The characters were very endearing and the scenarios "played out well"." - LAWonder10

Hearts & Scribbles - Excerpt

“Have a seat.” Mrs. Foxworthy motioned to the table. “We can talk here, if you don’t mind Bridget hovering nearby.”

“No, ma’am. I don’t.”

Not at all. For starters, she was easy on the eyes. Bouncy reddish-blond hair framing the face of an angel, when she wasn’t scowling. Nice figure, from what he could tell. That apron did her no favors. Dancing green eyes, his particular weakness. And a great cook.

Candrel's Crafts, Cooks, and Characters - Interview

What else do you have in the works right now?

Book three in my Sweetheart Ranch series, THE COWBOY’S CHRISTMAS BABY, will be released November 1st. Book four is coming out sometime in 2020, not sure when exactly but likely around June. Also, I have a not-yet-titled Christmas novella planned for release in early November as well. I’ll keep everyone posted on the details as soon as I have them.

underneath the covers - Excerpt

“Sweet!” Ryan stopped to admire the trim, sleek, fire-engine-red vehicle parked behind the ranch house. “Top speed, how fast can this baby fly?”

Bridget was securing the insulated food container holding brunch for cabin two in the vehicle’s rear bed. She then straightened to give him an exasperated look. “You’re kidding.”

“Not at all.” Ryan continued his inspection, circling the front of the vehicle and pausing at the passenger side. “Forty-eight-volt motor, right? I bet you can do eighteen easy. Twenty on the downhill.”

“It’s a golf cart.”

Among the Reads - Review

"I really appreciated the fact that the author didn’t make Ryan a playboy just because he wasn’t ready to settle down. His sense of humor and playfulness made him a fun hero. . . . If you are looking for a light-hearted cowboy romance, this could be a good book to consider."

E-Romance News - Excerpt

Bridget found she wasn’t quite ready to leave. “You sure? I don’t mind staying.”

“Go on.” He swung down from the saddle and tied his horses to the trailer before leading the other two to the hitching post.

She marveled at how they docilely followed Ryan, one after the other. It had been like that on the trail. Not a single hiccup or moment of panic the entire time. She couldn’t imagine riding a horse while leading three others. They’d likely start bucking and kicking, and Ryan would have to cut them loose, like when he’d worked for the outfitter.

“He’s not Superman,” she mumbled under her breath.

EmpowerMoms - Review

"I really enjoyed this sweet, cowboy story with Ryan and Bridget! I loved reading about the day to day operations of the family ranch and Ryan’s house swapping. . . . Easy to read, great characters and setting, clean romance-highly recommend!"

Heidi Reads... - Guest Post

What Makes Sweetheart Ranch Special?

THE COWBOY’S PERFECT MATCH is book two in my series, The Sweetheart Ranch (two more books are for sure following and possibly more). I personally have never been to a place like it. Right now, the ranch only exists in my head and on the pages of my books :)

But, seriously, wouldn’t it be nice to visit a western-themed wedding venue and B&B? Yeah, I agree. Let me take you on an imaginary tour. . .

Romantic Reads and Such - Review

"But it is the journey from flirting to more to trouble to that HEA ending that makes for an enjoyable read. If you are looking for excitement and angst, you aren’t going to find a lot of it here. Instead you get a slow burn romance that is perfect for a lazy couple of days of reading."

Locks, Hooks and Books - Excerpt

Ryan clasped Bridget’s hands in his. Following Homer’s calling wasn’t as difficult as he first thought it would be. Square dancing must be a lot like riding a bike: a person never forgets.

They did the allemande left, taking the arms of imaginary other couples. Next, they went to the center and back again, and Ryan gave Bridget a swing before going round and round. When it came time to promenade on home, he captured her left hand in his and looped his right arm over her shoulders to take her right hand. Then, they circled the open space.

Holding her this close, Ryan couldn’t take his eyes off her profile and navigated the room blindly. She fit perfectly into the crook of his arm as if by design, and their steps matched in precise rhythm—his to the beat of his racing heart. When she leaned back her head and laughed, he lost himself in the bright melody.

Remembrancy - Review

"Cathy McDavid delivers characters with real-life issues that are authentic and believable, throws challenges in the way of reaching that elusive HEA until revelations are discovered and decisions are made to fight for true love.

A clean cowboy romance with heart, The Cowboy’s Perfect Match is a sweet read that drew me in and had me cheering for Ryan and Bridget despite the obstacles they had to overcome."

Kat's Corner Books - Interview

1. Here at Kat’s Corner books, we’re fans of cats, but love all pets. Do you have a pet?


Meet Ozzy. He’s my four-footed muse and even has his own regular column in my monthly newsletter. He’s utterly devoted to me and spends a large portion of his day napping next to my computer monitor. He tolerates my husband (whom he refers to as “the man”), pretty much ignores the dog Nacho, and keeps his distance from our newest family member, Sushi (she originally belonged to my mother and came to live with us after we moved Mom into assisted living last December). Ozzy is a rescue, also like Nacho and Sushi. He believes no one else should have access to me other than him, including “the man”, and sleeps between us at night. Moving him to another part of the bed or the floor doesn’t work, he comes right back.

Sasha says hi!

Britt Reads Fiction - Review

"What a good story! The attraction between Ryan and Bridget was so well written! . . . This is book two in the series, yet can easily be jumped into as a stand alone novel, if desired. I really enjoyed this story."

Bri's Book Nook - Review

"Bridget and Ryan have a slow-burn romance. There is no insta-love in this story! . . . The story is smooth without any time-skips, and I could always tell when Bridget or Ryan was speaking from his or her point of view. The ending was sweet, and I hope that these characters show up in another one of McDavid’s cowboy romances!

I would recommend this novel to anyone looking for a sweet adult romance story."

Reading Is My SuperPower - Review

"Cute, fun, swoony, and sweet – this is a book you don’t want to miss. Book #2 in the series but easily works as a stand-alone."

Nicole's Book Musings - Review

"This is a book that is jam packed with the feels. It's a book that is a make you feel good story. I highly recommend this book!"

Jorie Loves A Story - Review

"I love how this series has tongue-in-cheek humour laced into it but also the wholesome focus on family & hard work on a ranch . . . Sweetheart Ranch has the capacity of touching your heart each time you visit & the series is rooted in family which I personally adore & Love as those make the best Romances!"

Baroness' Book Trove - Review

"I am giving The Cowboy’s Perfect Match by Cathy McDavid a five-star rating and recommending it to everyone who likes cowboys and Harlequin Heartwarming. The Cowboy’s Perfect Match by Cathy McDavid is a great book that had me sitting on the edge of my seat throughout the whole thing. Everything about this novel is awesome, and I can’t wait to see more of the Sweetheart Ranch series."

Splashes of Joy - Review

"I enjoyed this story so much and I love the Sweetheart Ranch. . . . This is such a sweet fun and entertaining romance to read. I enjoyed following Ryan and Bridget as they talked, flirted and as their relationship starts to build. . . . Cathy McDavid does an excellent job of creating beautiful realistic characters that develop and play their parts so well in the story. . . . This is purely romance, and if you are looking for a sweet romance read, you will certainly enjoy this one. I encourage you to check out The Cowboy’s Perfect Match as well as other books by Cathy McDavid."

Reading On The Edge - Excerpt

“Has Ryan invited you to dinner again?”

Aha! Here was the real reason for her grandmother’s lingering.

Bridget played dumb. “Again? What makes you think he invited me to dinner a first time?”

“It’s obvious when a man has been bitten by the love bug, and been bitten hard.”

Love bug? Ryan?

“Trust me, Grandma, he hasn’t been bitten, and he didn’t invite me to dinner.” Not yesterday, anyway.

“Hmm. You said no. I figured as much.”

Hallie Reads - Review

"I so enjoyed seeing Bridget again after meeting her in A Cowboy’s Christmas Proposal. Her situation with Ryan had plenty of complications, but it is not without plenty of humor and romance. All in all, The Cowboy’s Perfect Match is a fun read, perfect for the reader who enjoys contemporary cowboy romances (with stubborn characters and undeniable chemistry)."

Kimber Li - Excerpt

“There’s no reason not to go on the hay ride,” Grandma Em told Bridget. “And don’t bring up the cookout. I happen to know for a fact you have everything ready, right down to the condiment tray.”

She watched as Ryan helped the last guest into the wagon.

“All the seats are taken,” she countered. Seats being the bales of straw.

“Sit up front with Ryan.”

No way. He knew Gregory had brought a date. He’d helped her into the wagon, for crying out loud.

“I’d rather not.” Bridget was in no mood for his teasing. Not tonight.

“Honey,” her grandmother crooned. “Don’t let that doctor fellow make you feel bad or doubt yourself. You’re a beautiful, strong, talented young woman who also happens to be an incredible catch. You’ll find the right man, and he’ll be darn lucky to have you.”

Don't forget to enter the giveaway at the end of this post, if you haven't already...

The Cowboy's Perfect Match
(The Sweetheart Ranch #2)
By Cathy McDavid
Contemporary Romance
Paperback & ebook, 384 Pages
May 1st 2018 by Harlequin Heartwarming

He may not be perfect…

But he’s perfect for her!

Ryan DeMere is definitely enjoying the perks of being Sweetheart Ranch’s new wrangler—the best is working with head chef Bridget O’Malley. He’s fallen head over spurs for the talented and determined beauty. There’s just one hiccup. Bridget is holding out for Mr. Right—and Ryan doesn’t quite meet her requirements. But he’s determined to win Bridget over, because Ryan may not be perfect…but maybe their love could be.

Goodreads│Amazon│B&N│Book Depository│Harlequin│iBooks│Kobo

Other Books in the Series

A Cowboy's Christmas Proposal
(The Sweetheart Ranch #1)
By Cathy McDavid
Contemporary Romance
Paperback & ebook, 384 Pages
November 1st 2018 by Harlequin Heartwarming

At a magical time of year…

Can a cowboy help falling in love?

For single dad Owen Caufield, living and working at Sweetheart Ranch for a month is the perfect change of pace. While the cowboy turned wedding officiant can now spend more time with his children, Molly O’Malley, his new boss, is less thrilled. A wedding ranch isn’t the best place for three rambunctious youngsters. But amid the chaos—and the coming holidays—it may be the best place to fall in love…

Goodreads│Amazon│B&N│Book Depository│Harlequin│iBooks│Kobo

About the Author

As a sophomore in high school, NY Times, USA Today, and Amazon bestselling author Cathy McDavid won a local writing competition with her self-illustrated children’s book. Who knew that small triumph would eventually lead to a career writing contemporary romances with over 1.3 million books sold? With forty-seven titles to date, Cathy is also a member of the prestigious Romance Writers of America’s Honor Roll. This “almost” Arizona native and mother of grown twins recently married her own real-life sweetheart. After leaving the corporate world four years ago, she now spends her days penning stories about good looking men who ride the range or fight fires or hunt creatures all while sweeping the girl off her feet. It’s a tough job but she’s willing to make the sacrifice.

Website│Goodreads│Facebook│Twitter│Instagram│BookBub│Amazon

Tour Giveaway

One winner will receive:

• $10 Amazon gift card
• Author swag
• A Cowboy’s Christmas Proposal and The Bull Rider’s Valentine (print to US winner only, Kindle copies to US or international)

Ends May 22, 2019

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Review: All for You by Heather B. Moore

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

Synopsis

She's sophisticated and doesn't put up with anything. He's fought for every thing he's got, and he's used to getting his way.

Crash and burn pretty much describes Lindsey Gerber’s last six months at her law firm where she hoped to make partner. Now, every goal she’s made is suddenly out the window. She moves to Pine Valley, looking for a new start. On day one she meets pro hockey player Tyler Nelson, who’s recovering from an injury and in a physical therapy program that includes nature things like hiking the ski resort, which he hates, and makes no secret of. He also makes no secret of his interest in Lindsey. Their lives are two worlds apart though, and it will take one of them changing everything to make a relationship work.

My Review

Such great chemistry!!! Holy foot rub batman... I enjoyed all the elements of this story that wove it together into an entertaining romance, as well as the mannerisms of the characters. Nelson is immediately endearing, with his long-suffering attitude towards his holistic physical therapist- the way he kept catching his swear words and replacing them in order to eliminate negativity went right to my sweet spot. He quickly takes on the role of defender and protector of Lindsey while she deals with the fallout of harassment at her former job, and it's very appealing. She is a smart and strong woman, and she recognizes the characteristics that make Nelson an all around good guy. I loved reading about their time together in Pine Valley, Nelson's return to hockey, and how they resolve the difficulties of their long distance relationship. Loved the variety of experiences they share together as their romance blossomed and relationship deepened. Every book in this series has been so fun to read, I want the author to keep 'em coming! Highly recommend!

(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)

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Don't miss the other amazing books in the Pine Valley series! 
(They can easily be read in any order)

Review: The Paradox of Love by Teri Harman

My rating: 3 stars / I liked it

Synopsis

In 1889 in Paradox Valley, Colorado, Oakley Hallowell dresses like a boy, taking on the role left empty by her six dead brothers. Better than any cowboy, her hard work and mystic gifts are the reason Hallowell Ranch thrives—but her prideful, abusive father, Gideon, will never admit it. Despite his insults and beatings, Oakley refuses to abandon her grief-broken mother and beautiful home.

The Army killed Antero’s parents and the government forcibly removed his tribe of Utes from their beloved valley. His quest for revenge sent him down a dark path and into hiding. When he witnesses Oakley quietly, miraculously save a cow from a mud-bogged death he steps out of isolation to meet her.

Antero knows Gideon Hallowell will shoot him on sight, but this fascinating woman revives his bitter soul. How can he fight a world that despises him to keep Oakley by his side?

Oakley senses goodness and loyalty in Antero, unlike the other men in her life. But she’s afraid to get close, to trust. How can she open her heart to love, forgive her father, and forge a path to happiness?

My Review

I don't quite know what to make of this story. Oakley is a complex character- abused by her father, yet tries her hardest to be the son he never had. Cherishes her mother, but resents that she doesn't stand up for herself or her daughter. Has no interest in a relationship, but is inexplicably drawn toward a drifting Indian. The circumstances she cannot escape are difficult and trying, and there doesn't seem to be any hope or love there, until Antero shows her kindness and gentleness. I enjoyed their interactions, even though there are few before they become devoted to each other. They are each a rescuer of sorts to the other- he rescues her from harm, she rescues him from loneliness. They both struggle with the trauma they have experienced, and wonder together if forgiveness is possible. I liked the way they lifted each other, bringing light and even faith to their dark worlds. Just when I thought things couldn't get any worse, they do... and the ending was both messy and wrapped up a little too nicely. Overall, I found it interesting and was compelled to keep reading to see how everything would turn out.

(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)

Review: Daisies and Devotion by Josi S. Kilpack

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

Synopsis

Timothy Mayfield is ready to marry for love, but, since his personal finances are thinner than he’d like, he knows he’ll also need to find a wife with wealth. After receiving an unexpected inheritance, Timothy’s circumstances change, and he is free to pursue his “perfect woman”—one with blonde hair, blue eyes, a light laugh, arched eyebrows, elegant fingers, and a dazzling smile, among nearly twenty other characteristics.

Maryann Morrington doesn’t match anything on Timothy’s list—except for wealth. An heiress in her own right, she is tired of men pursuing her only for her money. But at nearly twenty-two years old, and not a particularly stunning beauty, she can’t be as picky as her friend Timothy is.

The two friends end up playing matchmaker for each other. Timothy will find a decent gentleman for Maryann, and Maryann will prove to Timothy that his “perfect woman” doesn’t exist.

Until Miss Shaw comes to London.

Now, with Timothy’s heart captivated by the blonde, blue-eyed beauty, Maryann must decide if she should risk her heart and reveal her true feelings for her friend, or if she should settle for someone else. It’s an up-and-down game of “he loves me, he loves me not” with both hearts and friendship on the line.

My Review

I didn't quite know what to think about Maryann and Timothy at first- she seemed without personality and he appeared to be a light headed dandy. It made me curious, and I absolutely loved getting to know them as aspects of their personalities unfolded and characteristics were revealed. Their friendship is unique in that they are completely upfront with each other- blunt almost to a fault. They appreciate the honesty in each other... until feelings get hurt. Unrequited love is one of my favorite tropes because it has such a strong element of longing. Maryann is a lovely friend and does want Timothy's happiness, even at the expense of her own. He had to experience for himself the value of her devotion in contrast to the empty fantasy, and the final scenes in the book are oh-so-sweet and a wonderful give and take in their complex relationship. Highly recommend!!!

(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)