Fiction
April 15, 2015
480
Marianne Daventry will do anything to escape the boredom of Bath and the amorous attentions of an unwanted suitor. So when an invitation arrives from her twin sister, Cecily, to join her at a sprawling country estate, she jumps at the chance. Thinking she'll be able to relax and enjoy her beloved English countryside while her sister snags the handsome heir of Edenbrooke, Marianne finds that even the best laid plans can go awry. From a terrifying run-in with a highwayman to a seemingly harmless flirtation, Marianne finds herself embroiled in an unexpected adventure filled with enough romance and intrigue to keep her mind racing. Will Marianne be able to rein in her traitorous heart, or will a mysterious stranger sweep her off her feet? Fate had something other than a relaxing summer in mind when it sent Marianne to Edenbrooke.
My Review:
HOLY CRAP! I freaking loved this book. I started it yesterday morning and finished it by midnight! It was irresistible and charming. This book made me so happy that I read scenes over and over and I have been thinking about it none stop. The humor in it made me laugh out loud throughout the whole book. I was giggling and sighing like a love-sick idiot.
Marianne was one of the most likeable characters I have ever read about. She cracked me up and I could relate to her in many ways. Her love of books, poetry, the country life, art, and family. She put others first instead of herself. She lacked confidence in herself at first, but over time she grew as person. It was fun to watch her grow into a bright, fun, brave and compassionate lady.
Philip was a beast of a man! He was super flirtatious, roguish, caring, funny, and a gentleman through and through. And I can’t help but love him, especially when he teases, winks, and flirts with her. He is one of my favorite male characters I’ve read about. Everyone needs someone like him in their life.
Julianne truly captures the best of the Regency period. It was quick paced and with its less formal language it allows many readers to enjoy many swoon-worthy scenes. It is a very clean romance which includes action, humor, and family. Yes it is predictable and sometimes super cheesy, but I loved it. This needs to be on everyone’s “to-read” list!
Watch Out For: Secondhand account of a family member’s death, mild violence, character is shot and receives injuries, one duel, abduction, kissing, flirtatious behavior, and hand-holding.
