Review: To Charm a Lady by Joanna Barker

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

About the Book

Cora Atherton wants nothing more than to finally fall in love—real love, not the unrequited sort. When she is invited to attend a house party without her disapproving, overbearing mother, Cora leaps at the chance, desperate to make a match of her own. That is, until she finds that Oliver Cartwell is also attending the party. Oliver, the boy she has loved since she was a girl and the man she is determined to forget.

A house party in the country is just what Oliver needs to distract himself from the shadows of his past. When he discovers that Cora, his sister’s best friend, is in need of a little matchmaking, he resolves to help her in her search for a husband. He quickly learns that no man is good enough for her, least of all himself. Why, then, does he find himself fighting his attraction to gentle, beautiful Cora at every step?

As the two draw closer together, Cora is forced to confront the feelings that have tortured her for years. With her future on the line and a deadline fast approaching, can she trust that flirtatious Oliver has changed for the better—or will he leave her heart in pieces once again?

My Review

It's always a pleasure to read a book by Joanna Barker! Unrequited love can be so painful, and I admired Cora for doing her best to move forward with her life. Quite the challenge when the object of her former affections is front and center. It was gratifying to see the growth in both Cora and Oliver, and for Oliver to come to important realizations that will affect their futures. The humor and angst were perfectly balanced, bringing a connection to the characters' emotions and relating to them on a lighter level as well. I loved their banter and chemistry, especially when their attraction and romantic feelings become stronger and mutual. The family and friends from A Game of Hearts were fun in this new story, and I hope the author continues to write more in this series!

Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.

Don't miss the previous book in the Cartwells series . . .