We are introduced to Marion Watt as she is about to play the piano in public for the first time. But the experience is ruined when Lord William Everton leaves in the middle of her piece and all of the ton comments on it, taking it as a slight to her playing. She vows never to play in public again. Marion does befriend Lord Everton's sister, Clara, however, which gives her a friend that she will need later on. A year later, Marion comes across Lord Everton at another ball and he insults her in public again. She can't stand his dandified ways and his arrogance and tries to avoid him. But when Lord Everton suddenly decides to court her, can she see the good in him and let him into her heart?
I really enjoyed the first few chapters setting up our hero and heroine for a journey to love with a lot of twists and turns. The dialogue was witty and the premise was so fun. I was hopeful that we would get to see Marion really coming out of her shell and showing her sassiness to Lord Everton when he tried to court her. I admit, I was a little disappointed that instead, she easily falls in love with someone she previously could barely stand. Such a missed opportunity to really delve into these characters and show how they gradually become friends, then more. There are also several time jumps that brush over parts of the romance that I wish had been shown. But beyond that, we do move from the London social scene to the viscount's country home and the author does a wonderful job of describing all the details of the estate and tenants. The author also touches on the fact that William had faced a lot of experiences in his life that are difficult and emotional involving slaves and people who have been mistreated, and I wished we had seen more of what compelled him to seek that out. A few more thorns are added to the story when William's past shows up with a jealous ex-girlfriend and he's also dealing with a forger on top of everything else. With all of this on his plate, that might explain why he hid his emotions and was fairly unkind to Marion. He does finally make up for his boorish behavior and readers will definitely root for them to have their happily ever after. Marion has a nice growth arc throughout the book and I was glad to see her get the happiness she deserved. Though there were a few bumps, I think the author has a solid knowledge of the time period and this is a fine debut novel. I will definitely watch for more from Ms. Walker!
Get your copy here
Here's the back copy:
Marion Watt is set to embark on her first London Season, and her parents have spared no expense to help her secure a suitable husband. Unlike most of the social-climbing young women in her position, Marion has no desire to marry hastily or for anything less than love. But when she learns of her mother’s declining health, she knows she must keep an open mind and allow herself to be courted. What she does not anticipate, however, is that the attentions of the insufferable Lord William Everton will be placed squarely on her. He might be the most sought-after bachelor of the Season, but she sees in him nothing but a frivolous cad.
Until William inherits his father’s title and seat in parliament, he must rely on his own devices to change the world. Dressing like a ridiculous dandy serves its purposes, but he is certain his newest disguise will help him find a wife to please his parents and further his own agenda. From among the glittering group of debutantes, William finds only one woman who passes his test. Unfortunately, the perfect choice is the only woman in all of London who despises him.
No comments:
Post a Comment