Book Review: Love and Lavender

I was so excited to read the new book in the Mayfield family romance series by Josi Kilpack. I've enjoyed getting to know this family and this book introduces us to Hazel Stillman. She's offered the marriage deal by her uncle that generally kicks off the story and has been the pattern in the other books in the series. Hazel is offended by the offer, however, thinking it was made because no man would marry her unless she brought a financial windfall to the union. When Hazel meets Duncan, her aunt's ward, she is wary of him and his obvious quirks, but they strike up an unusual friendship that is based on their mutual love of math. When extreme circumstances come up for both of them regarding their employment, it seems like marriage would be the best solution to find some stability, then go their separate ways once that is achieved. But could a marriage be more than that for them? 

I enjoyed getting to know both Hazel and Duncan. They are such well-rounded characters with relatable problems. They both are navigating a relationship for the first time and make mistakes, their backgrounds and previous experiences coloring their perspectives about what marriage should or could look like. I loved that both our hero and heroine were dealing with perceived physical and mental limitations, but still found themselves falling in love. I really wanted them to find their happily-ever-after with all they'd been through! I didn't expect some of the twists and turns in the story and the inner and outer conflict the characters faced. Hazel does make a decision regarding Duncan's family that I wished would have been more resolved, but overall, I can understand why she comes to the conclusion she does. I thought the secondary cast and setting were very well done, but the author truly excelled at weaving together a beautiful story of what love truly means. 

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Here's the back copy:

Hazel Stillman is a woman of rare independence and limited opportunities. Born with a clubbed foot, Hazel knows marriage is unlikely, so she devotes herself to teaching at a private girls’ school.

When her uncle offers Hazel a substantial inheritance is he marries, she is offended. What kind of decent man would marry for her money? But when she learns the school might be sold, she knows she must consider all her options.

Duncan Penhale thrives on order and process. He has no interest in marriage, so when Elliott Mayfield, his guardian’s brother, offers him an inheritance if he weds, Duncan finds it intrusive. However, an inheritance means he could purchase a building and run his own firm.

Hazel and Duncan believe they have found a solution to both of their problems: marry one another, claim their inheritances, and then part ways to enjoy their individual paths. But then Uncle Mayfield stipulates that they must first live together as a couple for one year.

Over time, their marriage of convenience becomes much more appealing than they had anticipated. At the end of the full year, will they go their separate ways or could an unlikely marriage have found unsuspecting love?