Series: League of Scoundrels, #1
Traits & Tropes: second chance; childhood friends; spy hero
Publication Date: 03.09.21
Genre/Setting: Historical; Victorian; Venice, Italy/London, England, 1897
Heat Level: 2
Rating: 5 stars!
Lottie Carlisle has endured her uncle Alfred’s scheming for five London seasons and is sick of superficial high society. But when she rejects yet another suitor Sir Alfred gives her an ultimatum: finally accept a proposal by the end of the coming season or he’ll choose a groom for her. So, Lottie decides to take matters into her own hands by creating a scandal large enough to ensure her reputation winds up in tatters so she can keep her own fortune and spend a quiet, spinsterish existence in the country.
Alec Gresham has stayed away from Lottie since he left five years ago without a goodbye. He’s never forgotten his childhood friend though and must go after her when he learns she may have put herself in danger. Lottie is furious when Alec shows up at her tiny, rented cottage in the Italian countryside, and his news is even more disagreeable. Not only is her reputation still mostly whole, but her uncle’s health is rapidly failing, and she must return to England if she hopes to see him. On the trip back it is apparent that the connection and chemistry between Lottie and Alec was undamaged by their separation. But there’s a sharp distrust between them, not to mention deceptions and secrets that may once again curtail any further relationship.
This is the first book I can really say I’ve loved in quite a while! Lottie was characterized just right to be an independent, feminist heroine, but without ever coming off as shrewish, rude, or unlikable. She simply fought to live her life on her own terms and make her own decisions rather than going along with whatever the men in her life tried to force on her or thought best for her. She was more than capable of thinking for herself and being simultaneously smart and sweet. Alec was blissfully clueless and really couldn’t fathom that Lottie might not want to be “safely married” to a titled society gentleman. He had issues of his own to deal with regarding his belief in his own lack of self-worth and that was pitiful, but it was nice to see him grow so much, both on his own and because of Lottie’s belief in him. Alec had been through a lot and I think he came through it well. I loved that he was still changing and developing at the end and so was Lottie. These two established a true partnership and had a truly lovely connection. Plus, Alec had one of the best groveling scenes I’ve read. I loved this couple and this writing style. Also, bonus points awarded for being set mostly in Italy. How refreshing! This was an impressive debut and I’m excited to see what’s next from this promising new author.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/3678797406
https://www.bookbub.com/reviews/3441715256
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