I adored this book. This Regency is set among the backdrop of horse racing. In addition, neither of the two leads are titled. Rosalind is the daughter of innkeepers. Nathaniel is the second son of a baronet, whose father got his title somewhat recently for military service to the Crown. Both of these set this apart from most of the historical romance I've read.
Rosalind was burned at 13. To save her life, her parents sent her to live/stay with a family friend. This friend paid for her care. As a result, Rosalind has spent the last 10 years in service, at various assignments, to pay off her debt.
Nathaniel continuously tries to win back his father's trust. He made a mistake as a teenager to turn to alcohol to cope with his mother's death. Ever since, Sir William has treated Nathaniel as irresponsible and untrustworthy. He learned from the mistake and I liked the struggle the book showed with Nathaniel and alcohol.
Both a little lost, they find each other. At first acquaintances, then friends, and then lovers. Their relationship was gradual and natural. Both are likable, strong, complex characters that complement and "get" each other.
The mystery was well developed and I had fun seeing if my theory was correct.
A new author for me, I had previously read the novella "The Sport of Baronets," in preparation for this one. I like her writing style and plan to check out her back-list! "The Sport of Baronets" is currently free at Amazon and B&N. (As of Jan 15th)
Release date Feb 2, 2016
eARC received in exchange for review from Sourcebooks/NetGalley.
Rosalind was burned at 13. To save her life, her parents sent her to live/stay with a family friend. This friend paid for her care. As a result, Rosalind has spent the last 10 years in service, at various assignments, to pay off her debt.
Nathaniel continuously tries to win back his father's trust. He made a mistake as a teenager to turn to alcohol to cope with his mother's death. Ever since, Sir William has treated Nathaniel as irresponsible and untrustworthy. He learned from the mistake and I liked the struggle the book showed with Nathaniel and alcohol.
Both a little lost, they find each other. At first acquaintances, then friends, and then lovers. Their relationship was gradual and natural. Both are likable, strong, complex characters that complement and "get" each other.
The mystery was well developed and I had fun seeing if my theory was correct.
A new author for me, I had previously read the novella "The Sport of Baronets," in preparation for this one. I like her writing style and plan to check out her back-list! "The Sport of Baronets" is currently free at Amazon and B&N. (As of Jan 15th)
Release date Feb 2, 2016
eARC received in exchange for review from Sourcebooks/NetGalley.
