Series: The Phoenix Club, #1
Traits & Tropes: reformed rake; guardian/ward
Publication Date: 05.25.21
Genre/Setting: Historical; Regency; London, England, 1815
Heat Level: 3
Rating: 4/5
Since having his hopes dashed two years ago, Tobias Powell has been living the life of a debauched rake. Now he’s inherited his father’s title, Earl of Overton, along with a young ward to marry off. Thanks to his father’s machinations, Tobias must also marry within six weeks if he hopes to retain his mother’s house, the only place he could ever truly call home. Now he must repair his damaged reputation, find someone he can love to marry, and find a suitable husband for his ward. Only, his ward seems incapable of proper behavior and he seems to find himself enjoying her company more and more.
Country miss Fiona Wingate is keen on the adventure of finally leaving her sleepy village for a London Season. But when she learns her unexpectedly handsome new guardian plans to marry her without delay, she knows she must disabuse him of that notion. She only just got a small taste of freedom and has no intention of relinquishing it to a husband. But when Fiona causes a bit of a scandal from which Tobias rescues her, a spark of attraction ignites between them. But Tobias knows how improper it would be to court his own ward.
I’m so excited for this new series. I love the idea of this uber exclusive club for those who don’t quite fit in anywhere else. Fiona was very excitable and a little immature at first and understandably so, but I enjoyed her rapid learning and growth. There was an excellent build up of tension between Tobias and Fiona as they developed a true friendship and came to know each other. I loved that she was so determined to stick up for herself and not be forced into anything. Along those lines, I loved that she caused Tobias to reevaluate some of his thinking and assumptions and grow into his own person without the shadow of his contentious relationship with his father. Their realizations of their true feelings were lovely here as well and I enjoyed the supporting characters. I could’ve done without the cringy moments between Tobias and his former mistress, but they did do a great job of illustrating his loyalty to Fiona. I think we’re off to a great start and I look forward to more of this new series.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/3983639614
https://www.bookbub.com/reviews/1513826540
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