Series: A Matter of Temptation, #1
Traits & Tropes: employer/secretary; forced proximity; protector; ruined, impoverished heroine; forbidden; starched hero; titled hero
Publication Date: 06.28.22
Genre/Setting: Historical; Victorian; Hertfordshire/London, England
Heat Level: 4
Rating: 5/5
Since her reputation was ruined six years ago, Wilhelmina Crawford has been living a quiet existence in the country, paying for her mistake by rusticating at her family’s estate and trying to help her brother find a remedy to their impoverished state. She’s imminently restless with her life so when her brother admits he’s challenged the powerful Earl of Creswick to a duel with swords, she disguises herself and goes in his place. When she beats the earl, rather than being incensed, he is impressed and offers Mina a position working as his secretary. It’s unconventional, but the earl is a political genius and Mina is eager to earn some money to help her brother and their tenants.
Simon Loughton, the Earl of Creswick, is working diligently to pass a reform bill that will help England’s most impoverished citizens get the vote. He’s a bit unnerved to find the help he needs comes from a fiery woman who also makes him laugh.
Now he has to live with this temptation in his office every day and Mina is finally getting the chance to live a little, in the way she’s always wanted to. Unfortunately for them both, the undeniable connection between them won’t be enough to erase Mina’s past mistakes, or the scandalous secret she has that could potentially ruin them both.
This story had a bit of a twist that I don’t think I’ve read before, and I found that plot originality very refreshing. I liked how the connection between Mina and Simon grew and wasn’t only on a sexual level. They laughed and had experiences, talked, and worked together. Simon was afraid of his feelings at first, but I loved how he embraced them once he realized he was sort of waking up when he was with Mina. She helped him truly live and enjoy life beyond just his work and I really liked the fact that he just accepted that and went with it after his initial hesitation. Though these two certainly faced obstacles, this still felt like a low angst read to me and I greatly appreciated that. I loved the fact that Simon went for what he wanted and stood up for himself, remaining unfazed even when Mina faltered or hesitated. My favorite aspect, though, was them presenting a united front in the end and facing things together. I definitely wanted to see the grandmother be put in her place a bit more, but I still liked how much Simon stood up for Mina and refused to allow her to be disparaged by anyone. This was a heartwarming read for me and Simon’s devotion especially made this feel like a true romance as these two fought for their HEA. It was a delightful read for me.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/4296850691
https://www.bookbub.com/reviews/1567740819
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