Series: The Wildes of Lindow Castle, #6
Traits & Tropes: dislike to love; scandalous heroine; starched hero
Publication Date: 03.30.21
Genre/Setting: Historical; Georgian; Cheshire, England, 1784
Heat Level: 3
Rating: 5 stars
Lady Joan Wilde has been a scandal virtually since she was born, her blonde hair a testament to her mother’s well-known extramarital affair. She’s never been much bothered by the gossip and scandal that follow her, but her intention to perform the lead role in Hamlet, in men’s clothes no less, may see her ruined for good.
Thaddeus Erskine Shaw, Viscount Greywick and heir to the Duke of Eversley, a man who dislikes her and has enumerated reasons he could never marry her, is the perfect model for princely arrogance. Joan of course has no interest in him beyond perfecting her character.
Thaddeus has avoided Joan because of his uncontrolled reaction to her but he can’t stand by while she puts herself in danger and vows to keep her safe. He makes an unlikely bargain with her: after one public performance she must return to her role as a lady and marry a gentleman Thaddeus recommends. Not that Thaddeus himself could ever be said man.
This was such a cute story. At first, I thought I might wind up disliking Joan given her disdain for her very fortunate position in life. As her character was fleshed out and became understandable, I quite liked her and admired her pluck. I also enjoyed her introspectiveness, which seemed contrary to the lively personality she presented to the world but meant she was able to reevaluate her thoughts on what she wanted for herself and realign her priorities. She was sunshine to Thaddeus’ grumpy and brought out his true personality behind the ducal façade he didn’t even realize he wore. Thaddeus and Joan were each just what the other never knew they needed and their journey to this realization was filled with entertaining banter and adorable moments as they came to know each other, and their attraction and connection became apparent. I truly adored the Wilde family and other supporting characters here; especially how supportive they were of Thaddeus in the wake of his own father’s hatefulness. This story was light-hearted and low in angst and left me with just the warm and fuzzy feeling I was needing.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
https://www.bookbub.com/reviews/282077342
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/3433842834
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