Search - More Than A Mistress (Mistress, Bk 1)

I know a lot of people really love this author, but this book didn't work for me. Could not warm up to the male protagonist at all, and that quizzing glass really annoyed me for some reason.

I love Mary Balogh's books. This book is one of the very few Regency romances that I've read more than once. The characters are likable and the writing style is enjoyable.

Another book that really tells a great story. Her characters feel real, and the book doesn't overwhelm the reader with historical trivia.

On her way to work, Jane Ingleby stumbles onto a duel. When she screams, Jocelyn Dudley, the Duke of Tresham, is shot in the leg. Now she has moved into his home and is acting as his nurse until his leg heals. Jane is happy to find a job in a home that keeps her out of the public eye. As she and the Duke grow closer, she worries that her secret will be revealed. But when Jocelyn offers her the position of his mistress, she sees it as a business arrangement that will enable her to stay in hiding.

The book started out a little slow for me, but it may have just been my mood that bogged it down. By the middle of the book I was engrossed. Balogh shows a lot of character growth in this story. Her hero and heroine start their relationship as aristocrat and servant. Soon they become a man and his mistress. Then while falling in love, they become friends. It's a nice change since so many romances do not show a lot of friendship. My rating: 4 Stars.

enjoyed very much

I loved this book. It's well written, interesting and the characters are completely engaging. Most definitely worthwhile!