Search - When Strangers Marry

Alpha male hero with a scandal hanging over his head, feisty heroine who redeems him. Don't do the math on their ages though, because she is really, really young.

This book is a rewrite of Lisa Kleypas first book Only in Your Arms. She has updated and improved on the original story. In her words, "I had a great time rediscovering the story of Maximilien Ballerand and his stolen bride, Lysette. The promise of this handsome, though mysterious, man's love proves irresistible to her, but she doesn't know the secrets he hides."

I was so disenchanted with the first half of the book, that I almost put it down unfinished. However, the second half of the book improves. I could not overlook the age difference in the characters and found his attraction to her quite creepy.

Initially I was a bit put off by the age difference in the hero and heroine, almost wanting to put the book down. But after some thought, I realize most regency era romances (although this book takes place in New Orleans) have a hero in his 30's and a heroine in her early 20's. I think what is uncomfortable is that she is closer in age to his teenage sons than she is to him.

However, the story is sweet and although the start is a bit uncomfortable, they are a good couple and as with all Kleypas books, the dialogue is smart and the romance believable. The story had charm because the couple is married for most of the book and it is more about two people learning to be married and fall in love. Plenty of sensuality although not as hot at more recent Kleypas fare.

Not the best Kleypas book but knowing it was her first, you can see what amazing talent she had right from the start. If you're a Kleypas fan, it should be on your reading list.

3 stars

great book. when i find a lisa kleypas i go right home and read all night. this was a great book.

Excellent story set in 1800's New Orleans. It has some history background which makes it more interesting. The hero is twice the heroine's age which might turned some people off (especially since the heroine is no much older than the hero's sons) but I think they are very well matched.