Release Date: November 7th, 2017

A very practical marriage makes Alexander Westcott question his heart in the latest Regency romance from the New York Timesbestselling author of Someone to Hold.

When Alexander Westcott becomes the new Earl of Riverdale, he inherits a title he never wanted and a failing country estate he can’t afford. But he fully intends to do everything in his power to undo years of neglect and give the people who depend on him a better life. . . . 

A recluse for more than twenty years, Wren Heyden wants one thing out of life: marriage. With her vast fortune, she sets her sights on buying a husband. But when she makes the desperate—and oh-so-dashing—earl a startlingly unexpected proposal, Alex will only agree to a proper courtship, hoping for at least friendship and respect to develop between them. He is totally unprepared for the desire that overwhelms him when Wren finally lifts the veils that hide the secrets of her past. . .

 4/5

(I received this as an ARC in exchange for an honest review.)

It's been while since I picked up an historical romance novel, and I now remember why I have always loved them so much! At one point, they were all I ever read but we've recently lost touch with each other. I need to start calling on them more often, the whole lord, lady, and pretty gowns really does it for me. I also forgot how amazing Mary Barlogh's writing is. Her style just reads so elegantly and yet so easily at the time. I love how she describes her characters and their world. I couldn't stop reading from the moment I started, I was reading any extra minute I had today.

Wren Heyden. She is a lovely character. She's no nonsense and blunt. She holds her head high , and refuses to let the world see her inner workings. I loved the growth of her self-esteem throughout the novel, and how by the end she sees herself in a completely different light than at the beginning. You can almost visibly see a cloud lift from her as more sun starts to seep through. She is courageous, smart, and so easy to grow to love. I will not be forgetting Wren anytime soon.

Alex. Westcott. 

Holy angel babies! I adored this man. Adored. He is a conscience driven character who stays true to himself. He sees past things to the beauty within. I can not tell you how many times he made my heart flutter with his actions and words. He is selfless, and will sacrifice himself to protect those who who rely on him.  In simple terms, he is just an great guy.

It was so charming to watch love grow from nothing. It was entertaining to meet the Westcott family and the outgoing and loving nature that they stand for. 

I don't have really any bad to say as I loved every minute of it. It was paced in the perfect speed that is neither too fast or too slow. I was never bored for a second with I was lost in the words. All in all, it was a tender, slow-burn romance with some very sweet moments.

Make sure you check this one out if you love historical fiction.

(Expected publication: May 1st 2018)