Series: Atwood Sisters, #1
Traits & Tropes: beauty and the beast; widower; scarred hero; arranged marriage
Publication Date: 03.31.22
Genre/Setting: Historical; Victorian; Kent, England
Heat Level: 3
Rating: 5 stars
Since her father’s death, Lady Amelia Atwood has been left with few options and now must marry in order to help her family financially. As the middle sister, she often found herself overlooked and she has learned that allowing herself to get close to people only results in loneliness and loss. Still, she’s willing to agree to the marriage that will save her two sisters, even if it means sacrificing her own happiness.
Lucas Bennett, the Duke of Greyfair, was badly scarred by the fire that killed his wife and unborn baby and now lives quietly at his isolated seaside castle, avoiding rumors that have labeled him the Ghoul of Greyfair. Still, the improvements he’s made to his estate have left him desperate for an heir to inherit it, meaning he must find a wife and leading him to bargain with the nearly destitute Earl of Biggleswade for his daughter’s hand. Lucas’ plan is easy enough to put into motion, but when Amelia arrives, he soon realizes she’s not exactly the shy and retiring debutante he expected.
I love a good Beauty and the Beast retelling, and this book certainly fit the bill. I really liked the use of the arranged marriage trope here and I found Amelia’s search for a place to belong especially relatable. I loved that there was romance here and the excellent development of the relationship between Amelia and Lucas, but also the growth of these characters as individuals. Amelia decided enough was enough and stood up for herself and made her place in the world where she could belong and take on the role she wanted, without waiting for Lucas to catch up. For his part, Lucas embraced his wife’s strength and finally confided all in her so that he could move on from his past trauma and create a new place for himself as well. Amelia called Lucas out on his behavior when it was needed and I think her treatment of him like a real person, rather than a walking scar, was key for him growing as a person and for their relationship escalating to a deeper level. I really liked all this growth that we got, and I loved the sea swept castle setting and slightly gothic vibes that were perfect for an autumn read.
https://www.bookbub.com/reviews/3914270299
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/5002789005
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