Synopsis
For Finlay Swinton, Viscount Firthwell and only son of a powerful earl, life has been a lark…until he discovers a terrible family secret that could ruin him. Determined to make a name for himself free of scandal’s shadow, he runs for Parliament. However, he encounters Charlotte, the mysterious woman who disappeared after their one night together, and he finds it impossible to stay away, despite her working class status and Jewish faith that threaten to destroy his chance for success.
Widowed, penniless, and desperate, Charlotte Taylor secures a teaching position at a foundling home and relaxes into a predictable existence. That is, until Finlay, the man she shared one romantic night with, reappears, a specter from her past. He ignites her passion, even while he threatens the precarious foundation on which she’s rebuilt her life. But when those from her past return to endanger her hard-earned security, she’ll have to reveal his secret or go to prison.
Widowed, penniless, and desperate, Charlotte Taylor secures a teaching position at a foundling home and relaxes into a predictable existence. That is, until Finlay, the man she shared one romantic night with, reappears, a specter from her past. He ignites her passion, even while he threatens the precarious foundation on which she’s rebuilt her life. But when those from her past return to endanger her hard-earned security, she’ll have to reveal his secret or go to prison.
Review
I really enjoyed reading this historical fiction. When two people from opposite sides of the society meet and sparks fly. They will face many hurdles before they can even imagine being together. But the hearts want what the hearts want and they don't much care for society's rules. It's a very well-written book and I think that all the characters are great. Oddly, I liked Lady Flora more than two main characters. I wonder if we will get to read her story or not. In any case, I loved this book and I think it's a must read for historical fiction fans.
Finlay wants to focus on his political aspirations but he can't get one woman out of his head. He met her one year ago by chance and it seems that she had stolen his heart. Not that he is aware of this fact. Now, he meets her after a year and it's like no time has passed. He is still attracted to her and needs to get her out of his system or he might end up killing his carrier before it has even started.
Charlotte has made her bed, so to speak, and she is happy with her situation. At least, she isn't living on the streets trying to avoid starvation. What she can't afford is an affair with Finlay. As much as she loves him, she must think of the consequences. Thus, she plans to keep her distance but will it even be a possibility for her? The chemistry between them is explosive and they both know that society's rules and norms are unjust. Then how are they supposed to follow them?
Things get out of hand when Charlotte's past collides with her present. Scandal might become inevitable and what will happen to them then?
It's a really good story and I'd definitely recommend it to all fans of historical fiction. I received a complimentary copy of this book via NetGalley.