5 stars What to do when two people inextricably drawn to each other are both afraid to love? Kate made the mistake of marrying someone who plied her with pretty words then shipped her off to the country to waste away while he engaged in multiple affairs in London, eventually dying because a cuckolded husband called him out. Now widowed and wealthy, she is determined to enjoy life. Meanwhile, Ryder lost his wife several years ago and out of fear of losing anyone he cares about ever again, he has chosen to wallow in his grief and guilt. Naturally, the chemistry between them is undeniable, and apparently, inevitable. This is Kate’s journey to realizing that trying to protect your heart is a losing proposition. Ryder learns that fear can often disguise itself as sadness or guilt or any number of other emotions that are far easier to face. Both are driven by the most elemental of emotions, the one that seems to drive most people—fear. Both learn that facing their fears is the only way to conquer it. I will admit this story brought more than a tear to my eye. I particularly felt for Ryder because it’s harder to heal a broken heart caused by death than one caused by neglect or rejection. Kate’s is a character who is strong, independent , persistent, brave, and inquisitive. Ryder is not only thoughtful and caring, though he tries to hide it, but also cognizant of the value of these qualities in her. He has no desire to change her or control her, which is refreshing since that is the most common way for men to treat women during this time period. There is more than a little debauchery (Ryder’s word) in this novel and I was surprised by the scandalous underbelly of London exposed by Ms. Devon. I have no reason to doubt the veracity of this society as portrayed, even though it was well-hidden and does not appear in most historical romances. This is not your typical bodice-ripper, and although no more explicit than others in its category, it is definitely more unusual. I loved this story and I highly recommend it. February 19, 2021
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Elizabeth J ConnorWriter. Editor. Proofreader. Archives
September 2022
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