Synopsis
The beloved “sunshine” of the ton, Miss Charlotte Chapman, is trapped in the carriage with an utter madman. There’s simply no other explanation for it. Why else would the rough, reclusive Earl of Trevelyan—her deceased brother’s most beloved friend—sweep her away during a terrible snowstorm without explanation? All she knows is that his rather boorish behavior somehow involves her pending betrothal…
Trevelyan has a reputation for being something of a beast in society’s circles, but nothing—nothing—will stop him from rescuing Charlotte from her disastrous engagement. He promised his best friend that she and her sister would be looked after. Of course, the earl can only protect her from the blackguard who’s trying to marry her. Protecting her from himself is quite another matter…
Now, thanks to their upended carriage, they’re stranded at a country inn—which has only one room left. And all it takes is one kiss to unlock the simmering desires they’ve never admitted…and a heartbreaking secret that could shatter Charlotte into a million pieces.
Review
The book started really well, and I was immediately drawn into the story. Both main characters seemed exciting and well-developed. For the most part, that's true. But sometimes I wondered if Charlotte was unnecessarily stubborn and Finn irrationally over-protective. Still, I enjoyed it and thought other historical romance fans would also. Snowstorms and fake relationships are well-loved tropes. If you enjoy them, it's definitely your cup of tea.
Someone finally proposed to Charlotte and it might not be the love match she expected, but it would do. After all, she doesn't have much of a choice. But when Finn, the Earl of Trevelyan, learns about it, his reaction is to kidnap her just to dissuade her from marrying the wrong guy. What happens next is something neither could have imagined.
The more they get to know each other, the more they fall in love. Once the snow melts, the reality will come back rushing. And they might regret their decisions. Or maybe the future has something else in store for them.
Overall, it's a good read. My only complaint is that it was a bit slow in the middle. But the way it started and ended, is just perfect. If medium-paced isn't a deal breaker for you, then do check it out. And I hope you love it even more than me.
P.S. I received a complimentary copy of this book via NetGalley.