Once upon a time three young ladies vowed to record their first London seasons…and to fill in the gaps of their finishing school educations. Thus began The Debutante Diaries—and London will never be the same… daring proposal. An earl who’s determined to resist her. And a love that just might be written in the stars, in First Earl I See Tonight by Anna Bennett.
Recently jilted by his fiancée, David Gray, Earl of Ravenport is not in the market for a wife. Even if Gray didn’t have his hands full renovating his crumbling country house, it would take more than a bold marriage proposal from a headstrong young beauty to thaw his frozen heart. Gray is confident that spending a week at his ramshackle estate will change her mind about marriage, but every passionate moment he spends with her tempts him to change his…
A talented artist, Miss Fiona Hartley desperately needs her dowry money to pay off a blackmailer set on ruining her sister. The handsome earl seems a sensible choice for a husband…if only she can convince him that romance will play no part. But marrying in name only may prove difficult for Fiona. Gray can’t help but be dazzled by her genuine warmth. Yet as their feelings deepen, Fiona’s deadline looms. Will her secrets destroy them, or is true love their final destiny?
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“Sometimes love is measured in altogether different ways—like shared secrets, understanding smiles and reassuring touches…”
The Earl of Ravenport, known by his friends and family as Gray, is a powerful Earl and future Count, but in name only. Unfortunately, his coffers are all but empty, and his family estate is crumbling down around him. His goal is to bring The Fortress back to its original grand splendor for his grandmother’s sake, and his reputation be damned.
Fiona Hartley’s family is rich as Midas, but since they have earned their money rather than been born with a title, they are not easily accepted among The Ton. Fiona loves her family more than anything, and when she receives a blackmail note demanding money or a dark family secret will be revealed to all, Fiona will stop at nothing to pay off the blackmailer. Desperate for funds, Fiona pens a letter to the Earl of Ravenport propositioning him to a marriage of convenience. This will allow Fiona to gain access to her dowry to pay off the blackmailer, and give Gray the much needed funds to repair his estate.
Gray can’t believe the boldness behind Fiona’s proposal. Vowing to never love or be loved, he invites The Hartley’s and his closest friends to a house party at his estate in hopes of scaring her away. As the days go by, he’s slowly realizing that there is so much more to Fiona, and she may just well be the one to melt his frozen heart.
First Earl I See Tonight is the first book I’ve read by Anna Bennett, and I absolutely loved it! Once I started, the pages flew by and I couldn’t put it down. Highly recommend to lovers of historical romance, and look forward to reading more from this author!
*Received ARC copy via NetGalley for honest review*
Thanks to my local library for the borrowed copy of First Earl I See Tonight by Anna Bennett, which didn’t take me long to read as long as I made time to read it. I’ve had it on loan for a while from the library and wanted to make sure I finished this book before I dived into the second book in the series in July.
I told myself I would read more Historical Romance books this year after reading my first book by Courtney Milan. I was looking for another Historical Romance author and came across Anna Bennett’s Debutante Diaries series books that sounded very promising. Without giving too much away from the story. Here is a book that is written about an heiress, Miss Fiona Hartley who is being blackmailed by an unknown person that wants money from her; otherwise, they will tell the truth of her sister. The only way she can receive payment is by marrying someone. She proposes to an unlikely character who is damaged and doesn’t want anything to do with her.
The Earl of Ravenport (David Gray) is not looking for a wife, especially since he had his heart broken by a woman not that long ago. Fiona though is remarkably persistent on winning over the Earl and will do anything for him to marry her. She won’t tell him the truth on why she wants him to accept her proposal, but she will try everything to win him over. The Earl of Ravenport is a hard person to win over though, even when he’s trying to scare Miss Hartley away. He invites her and her family to stay with him at his Fortress, which is a place that needs some work done to it. He’s determined to fix it up to its original glory days for his grandmother.
Both characters are destined to be together, even if the Earl is stubborn in the story. The truth of why he’s the way he is finally unveiled. He’s had a rough beginning, and he doesn’t want to let anyone in, even though he needs to let someone into his life. Fiona is one character who comes off as a Wallflower but is very daring. I adored her character because she loved her family and loved her art passionately. She doesn’t let anyone stop her from her passions, even though she should shy away from it.
The blackmailer in the story was definitely not someone I expected at all. I was shocked to find out who was behind the blackmail of Fiona and her family. I’m glad though that everything came together at the end for Fiona and David.
The story behind the debutante dairies will come to light too, and I loved how the author wrote Fiona’s diary entries into specific chapters. Overall, this was a very enjoyable story and I look forward to reading the next book in the series since it’s about Fiona’s little sister. The only thing that bothered me about the story was how the Earl handled the bad guy in the story. There should’ve been more to it. I was looking for justice at the end with the blackmailer since it was an awful thing that was done to Fiona. Poor Fiona has to go through that without confiding with someone until she had to in the story.
Story Rating: 4 stars
Steaminess Rating: 3 stars
Standalone or part of series: Part of series, but each follows a new couple.
Do I recommend this book? Yes.
Will I read other books from the author? Yes.
Tropes/Elements: Opposite’s Attract
Hero: Earl; Damaged; Adores his Grandmother
Heroine: Artist; Loves Her Family
Maybe 3.5 stars
Honestly, Anna Bennett is hit or miss for me and this book is closer to miss than hit for me.
Fiona Hartley needs to marry so she can gain access to her impressive dowry and pay off the blackmailer intent on ruining her sister. She decides David Gray, the Earl of Ravenport, is perfect for her needs. He is in need of funds and was kind to her. She has no desire for anything more than a marriage of convenience and sends him her proposal.
David is not interested in marriage – he has learned the hard way that love is not worth the pain. His live has not been easy for him and his tragic past has left him slightly bitter, broody and moody. He refuses Fiona’s proposal and concentrates on trying to restore “the Fortress” to it’s former glory for his grandmother, who is the only person he loves and who is losing her sight.
No is not an option for Fiona and she persists. David decides to invite her along with her family to visit – that should scare her off just as it did his former betrothed. But as he gets to know her he is no longer certain he wants to push her away.
The book is well written and after a little bit of a choppy start, settles into a smooth pace. I will admit that I have a soft spot for grumpy heroes and David certainly falls into that category. I liked Fiona and admired her devotion to her family, but the story was just so implausible and at times ludicrous and contrived. There is a lot going on before these two get a HEA, including blackmail, drama, lies, betrayal, good friends, sacrifice and a villain who gets off way to easily (IMO).
This is the first book in a new series and I will read the next installment but I am not sure I would recommend this book.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that was provided to me by NetGalley and the publisher.*
I love the stories with cantankerous, grumpy earls (or other peers) where the earl realizes that he cannot keep up his moodiness but succumbs to love even if he is being pulled by a headstrong, family loving, compassionate woman. This story is just a fun read. There are laughing moments, poignant moments and a mystery. I must say I did not totally figure out the villain until close to the end. Both Gray and Fiona are likeable characters that had me cheering for them – was a little worried at the end. A great story.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through NetGalley.
Rcvd an ARC at no cost to author..(netgalley) This was an enjoyable book. We meet Fiona who is being blackmailed on who her sister really is, and she does not want that to hurt her sister who she truly loves. Since she has a large dowry she sees this as the only solution for her to pay the black mailer however he only gives her two weeks. So in these two weeks she has to find someone and convince them to marry her and the only person she can think of is The Earl of Davenport (Grey). Fiona doesn’t really know Grey, but he assisted her in a rather embarrassing situation before so she reaches out to him. Grey is cold hearted and has also recently been jilted by his fiance who drops him after she sees his hom “The Fortress” because it is falling apart and he is broke but doing his damndest to fix for his grandmother whom he loves. So I gave you the bones to the story and how they go about everything is enjoyable. We have lies, secrets, betrayal and humor, and the whole time you are rooting for Grey and Fiona…I hope we get stories on Lily and Sophia..Enjoy!
3 stars. I love Regency and I did like this book. The actual writing style flowed nicely and was able to hold my attention. But the plot wasn’t entirely believable. I liked the fact that Fiona was a bit of a maverick. She found herself in a sticky situation and proposed to Gray to find her way out. However, why would she be the one blackmailed? Maybe because the blackmailer though she was the easiest target? Except they had never met. And I felt Gray’s reluctance to accept did not make sense. I would think he would welcome a marriage of convenience. He would get money to fix his estate and not worry about falling in love. That was a bit of a brow scruncher. And then when you find out who was the villain…kind of out of left field.
This was my first Anna Bennett book and I will probably read he next in the series when it comes out.
First Earl I See Tonight is a fabulous historical romance by Anna Bennett. Ms. Bennett has given us a book that is well-written. The cast of characters are phenomenal and my favorite part of the book. Fiona doesn’t want to marry anyone that only wants her dowry and cares nothing for her. When she receives a blackmail letter, she is forced into action. David is an Earl without a fortune to rebuild the family estate. David and Fiona’s story is loaded with drama, humor, action, spice and suspense. This book hooked me on the first page and held me captive until the end. First Earl I See Tonight is book 1 of the Debutante Diaries Series but can be read as a standalone. This is a complete book, not a cliff-hanger.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book that I received from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I absolutely adored Fiona! She came up with a plan to keep her family safe and nothing was going to stop her! Gray was never going to fall in love after the heartache he experienced and Fiona wasn’t going to change that. The characters were awesome and I loved the fact that they kept secrets from each other, but eventually confided in each other before being forced to show their hand. I wasn’t sure who the blackmailer was until near the end. It wasn’t who I actually thought it would be and I’m glad for that. I stayed up til 130 a.m. finishing this book and it was well worth the loss of sleep! Thank you for the advance readers copy. You’ll enjoy this read!
Full review appeared at Reader’s Edyn on 03/21/20
Fiona – is in a pickle. Recently given an ultimatum in the form of blackmail, she has limited time in which to decide how to respond to the blackguard. Considering the sensitive information will ruin her sister, she has little choice but to concede to the payment demanded. An heiress of fairly new money, she has several options for advantageous matches she could make. But she wants to try and choose the best man possible for this unorthodox proposal. Satisfied she’s chosen wisely, she sets out to seal the deal. Except Gray is not a willing target. But the spark between them is undeniable and before too long, her plan to marry for convenience and access to her dowry has her heart on the line as well. Unwilling to tell Gray the entire truth, she provides as much information as is comfortable without compromising the damaging truth. Problematic, Gray is now demanding full disclosure despite his continued refusal to marry her. Fiona has reeled him in up to a point, but he’s still fighting what is plain to see. If she can’t trust him with her heart, can she really trust him with the full truth?
David Gray – Earl of Ravenport – recently jilted. Having absolutely no intention of falling to the charms of another heartless woman, he refuses to go along with Fiona’s scheme. However, she convinces him to at least take some time getting to know her prior to announcing a betrothal. Gray sees this as an opportunity. Since his crumbling estate sent his previous fiancé running for the hills, it should work wonders on Fiona. Plan in hand to end this debacle, he arranges a weeklong party at his home. Despite desperately needing funds to repair said home and holding the title of Earl that Fiona seeks, all he sees is red flags where the vixen is concerned. But the more time they spend together, the more she draws him in – quite literally. She finds beauty in places others never would or could. So much for the estate ending her scheme. Before too long, Gray has ferreted out most of the details surrounding Fiona’s rushed desire to marry quickly. But the blackmailer is most unexpected and just might be the final blow. Can Gray discover the truth, appropriately deal with the shocking revelation without compromising the Hartleys, and confront his deep emotions for Fiona without losing her in the process?
What a charming beginning to this whimsical series! Fiona comes from new money, her father very recently making his fortune. As the eldest sister and heiress, Fiona is expected to make an advantageous, titled match in order to strengthen the family name, which currently isn’t entirely accepted. The match is desired more by her stepmother than anyone, but Fiona has no real objection and understands the importance, so goes along with the expectation. But a blackmailer somehow discovers a dark family secret which would ruin the chances for not only Fiona’s sister at a good match but any chance of the family being welcomed into society, wealth notwithstanding. A talented artist, Fiona is accustomed to deciphering the character of people and decides on Gray for her husband. Convincing Gray of that, though, will be one heck of a feat to accomplish. Despite their fierce attraction, he is adamant that he will be unable to give her the kind of marriage she deserves. Utterly enchanting! Getting to know Fiona, Gray, and several other family members was a pleasure. This book not only gives a wonderful story of love breeching carefully constructed walls of protection but also set up what appears to be a fantastic series as the stories continue. I was lucky enough to obtain all three books in the series. While I did not get the first two installments read prior to release, I will have the third and final book in the series completed well before release day and I am looking forward to it immensely.
The perfect mix of everything expected within a beautifully crafted historical romance, Ms. Bennett easily moves toward recognition as one of the best in HR; at least by my estimation. Scheming, brooding, whit, passion … its all present and accounted for. For those of you who are fans of Amelia Grey and the Rakes of St. James series, you’ll be sure to enjoy these delightful debutantes. Somewhat similar to the aforementioned series, yet altogether different, Fiona and Gray will effectively draw you into their world for a story of love rising above all with a dash of mystery. Fiona’s sister (Lily), best friend (Sophie) and Grey’s grandmother were breakthrough characters that added the perfect combination of insight and levity to this story; although Fiona and Gray have their own witty, sparring interludes as well. Together, Fiona, Lily, and Sophie determine that they must keep diaries of all of their advice to their future daughters based on their own passionate escapades and experiences with love throughout their seasons. Aptly named the Debutante Diaries, their adventures begin. While Fiona is definitely gifted as an artist, her entertaining musings within her diary are provided periodically throughout the book and are nothing short of divine. Icing to the cake if you will. Being an artist is obviously frowned upon by the ton as a suitable career, so only family is aware of her sketching hobby. When Gray sees her talent, even he cannot deny that it is something special and sets about to bring a bit of recognition of sorts. Ultimately, these two who were sure they could never create a love match become the perfect pair, balancing one another out, and falling madly in love. Definitely an HEA here! The attraction between Fiona and Gray is undeniable and their intimacy is quite passionate. Let’s just say that Gray is the opposite of selfish as a lover and Fiona has no issue returning the favor in due time. I’d also like to point out that this cover is everything! It shows the spunk and spirit that make up Fiona and captured the details perfectly: from the ball gown, to the Fortress in the distance, to the journal on the bench, and the bench itself. I adore covers that actually represent the stories within!
I was a bit shocked at the revelation of the blackmailer, although I did have a slight suspicion after a bit of time had passed. While I wasn’t entirely sure if my suspicion was correct, the identity of the scoundrel was unexpected in the grand scheme of things. Maybe just a bit disheartening though since things could have gone a completely different direction and possibly even provided another book in the series somehow. However, I was actually happy to see an author take the road less traveled in this instance even if the identity ended up being somewhat unbelievable. Actually, I’m a bit hung up on this detail now that I think about it. Yes, I was sure I had accurately identified the extortionist. But leading up to the reveal lacked in implicating clues. It was almost as if the author hadn’t fully committed to the idea of who the criminal would end up being and then just decided it would be Character X. I’m sure you’ll all see what I mean when you read the book yourselves. And this would be my only complaint for this book; the lack of incriminating evidence to support the actions of Character X. No matter the identity of the blackmailer, this book was engaging from start to finish. I am thrilled to have discovered another fantastic HR author whom I can rely on for quality time spent within her work. Ms. Bennett delivers all the feels between these pages and I cannot wait to continue on this exciting journey with characters I have come to enjoy immensely. I eagerly anticipate reading what’s in store for Lily in the subsequent book.
Kindle version provided by NetGalley/St. Martin’s Press in exchange for an honest review.
Wealthy Fiona Hartley and her sister Lily are going to have their first London season. Lily was adopted as a babe and someone is threatening to tell the truth about Lily’s birth mother. Fiona has decided to pay the man but needs to get her dowry to do so. She has decided to send a letter to Gray, Earl of Ravenport, asking him to marry her asap. She knows the Earl needs money and he was once nice to her at a ball. He’s not quite sure about her and decides to have a house party at his crumbling estate, assuming one look will drive her away.
Fiona is an artist and sees what the estate could be when restored. His Grandmother thinks they will be perfect for each other. After spending time with her, he agrees to the marriage but informs her he’s incapable of loving her. During the house party, she becomes acquainted with his friends. One of them, Kirby, doesn’t seem quite right to her. Gray does fall in love with her, but no spoilers from me because this story gets complicated and hard to put down. I really enjoyed it and hope you will read it.
I loved this story, it was an enchanting read with a healthy dose of suspense and great character development.
Fiona Hartley is an endearing heroine. She needs a husband to access her marriage settlement and pay a blackmailer, to protect her sister from scandal and humiliation. David Gray, the Earl of Ravenport, is the perfect candidate, due to his lack of fortune and brooding personality that keeps the competition at bay. Despite his financial difficulties, he is not easily going along with Fiona’s bold plan. He tries to scare her off, but without success. I loved Fiona’s honesty and her determination to wiggle past the earl’s defenses. She is willing to go to great lengths to protect her sister.
David was everything I love in a hero. He was protective, loyal, charming, attentive, honest. He has been deeply hurt in a previous relationship, and he has good cause to be wary of others, but Fiona brings out his tender, carefree side. He is charmed by her thoughtfulness and her honesty. He finds that he’s being irresistibly drawn to her and he can’t keep her at arm’s length.
I loved watching Fiona and David’s transformation. As soon as they meet, there is some serious tension building between them. The relationship is slow building and completely sweet, their connection is tangible. This was a great read that I thoroughly enjoyed! 4.5 Stars
This was my first historical romance. The blurb had me interested, but sadly it wasn’t what I had hoped for. I didn’t feel that spark between them. Wish there was a lot more chemistry between them, and yes I get that there wouldn’t be a lot in the beginning given their situation, but it seemed to take forever for them to get there. It wasn’t until the very end of the book that I felt something or was excited to read. And their was so much begging from Fiona, just a little too desperate for my liking. A lot of the scene changes made it hard to read. I wish there had been some kind of break to let me know of them. I really wish we had the end of the book sooner, it almost seemed too little too late.
First Earl I See Tonight by Anna Bennett
Debutante Diaries #1
Blackmail is a dirty business and Fiona Hartley needs a way to pay off the blackmailer to keep her family happily as it is. Her decision to access her inheritance through marriage sees her writing a wedding proposal to a man she believes might be interested in her money little knowing that what she expects and what will happen will be quite different. David Gray, Earl of Ravenport, thinks that Fiona is mad at first but does meet and talk to her. The two grow closer to one another at a house party on his crumbling estate but there is always the blackmailer lurking in the background to cause turmoil in Fiona’s mind…and life.
My thoughts:
*Well written if somewhat predictable
*Storyline highly unlikely
*Liked the characters
*Enjoyed the interactions between Gray and Fiona
*Some will find this book highly entertaining while others will want more substance
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for the ARC – This is my honest review.
3-4 Stars
3.5 stars
Fiona seeks out the help of Grey, the Earl of Ravenport, because she can’t forget how he very gracefully “rescued” her after she made a fool of herself by tripping in the middle of a ballroom. In her mind he’s an honorable man that would at least listen to her plight and with any luck she could convince him to marry her. I had some trouble connecting to her in the beginning because more than trying to be in good terms with him (after all, SHE was asking HIM a huge favor) she tended to correct, challenge, and even berate him. And what did he do? He found her attitude “refreshing” ¯\_()_/¯ I don’t know, I’ve never thought rudeness a refreshing trait but what do I know… Fiona was a romantic at heart so I’m going to give her the benefit of the doubt and say that she acted that way because she thought she was going to marry for other reasons than love.
Gray was an honorable man that just happened to be cynical about love, and with good reasons. He was not exactly surly but I wouldn’t call him the life of the party either. His parents left his life and earldom in shambles and the few people he’d come to love and trust ended up betraying him. But even with all that baggage he was still considerate and caring. Once he realized Fiona and he made a good match he took upon himself to make her feel at the very least admired and protected. Of course it didn’t take long for either one of them to admit being in love and once they did I thought Gray did a wonderful job at declaring his love.
As far as the blackmail, I was glad Fiona was smart enough to open up to Gray and that he didn’t act like she had betrayed him as well. I think they both acted accordingly and to the best of their abilities given the situation. I didn’t like much how they took care of the blackmailer because to me his punishment was kind of vague and left me wondering if he’d come back after our couple in later books. All in all it was an enjoyable read and I recommend it for anyone in search of a light read.
**I received this book at no cost to me and I volunteered to read it; this is my honest opinion and given without any influence by the author or publisher**
Miss Fiona Hartley has a dilemma. She has raise a lot of money quickly. The only thing she can think of is to marry and use part of her dowry. Now she just has to get her chosen man to agree.
David Gray, the Earl of Ravenport has just been dumped because the woman he thought lived him couldn’t face the reality of his circumstances.
Our hero at first comes across as a cold man, but he is not.
Our heroine is a brave and determined young lady who will do anything to protect her family.
A very entertaining and amusing story with fabulous characters. The villain of the tale is very unexpected.
I loved every page.
The First Earl I See Tonight by Anna Bennett is a Regency Historical Romance. Book 1 in the “Debutante Diaries”, and it promises to be an exciting new series. Featuring, David Gray, Earl of Ravenport and Miss Fiona Hartley. Fiona is a talented artist being blackmailed, she must save her sister and family secret from scandal. Gray has had a difficult childhood, was just jilted by his fiance and his estate is need of finances to restore it to its formal glory. Gray wants do this for his beloved grandmother, whose losing her eyesight.
A bit slow at first but picks up, about the third chapter. To me it was a bit confusing at times, some things just didn’t come together for me, especially for the Regency era, but with that said it was an enjoyable and satisfying read. A few surprises along the way. The characters are charming. The plot was interesting but some things just did not fit well, to me. I enjoy a good romance, with some mystery, suspense, and a HEA, which THE FIRST EARL I SEE TONIGHT does have. When, it all came together it was a bit of a let down, to me, it felt a bit rushed at the end just before the finale. Please, don’t get me wrong, this is an interesting, and enjoyable read. I enjoyed watching Gray and Fiona’s attraction grow into love and their HEA.
“I voluntarily received a complimentary copy, however, these are my honest opinions. I was in no way required nor compensated to write a review.”
#NetGalley,#TheFirstEarlISeeTonight
Rating: 4
Heat rating:Mild
Reviewer: AprilR
I love bold, daring heroines and Fiona is no exception. She’s smart, loyal, and a talented artist. In a bid to save her sister and family from ruin, she boldly proposes to an Earl in desperate need of funds. Gray is a brooding Earl who is more concerned with restoring the deplorable state of the family manor than with finding a bride after being dumped by his now ex-fiancé. Fiona and Gray are quite entertaining as they banter during her rather persistent pursuit. Fiona is different from other women and Gray is amused and drawn to her in spite of himself. Gray wants her to move on, but he doesn’t account for their connection and chemistry. First Earl I See Tonight is humorous, entertaining, sexy, and surprising. It’s a great start to a new series and I’m looking forward to the next book.
Overall I enjoyed reading this, the first I’ve read of Anna Bennet’s work.
Here we have a determined heroine, who is very protective of her family. She decides to tackle the blackmailer on her own to not only protect her adopted sister, but also her father with his weak heart. A few times changes in her father’s behavior are mentioned – he’s hardly at home with his family – but there is no further development or explanation along those lines. The stepmother seems at times loving, yet on occasion a bit beastly. I did wonder if she is the cause of the father’s avoidance. Maybe that will be explained in Lily’s story.
Gray has some emotional baggage from his dead parents. He’ll do anything for his grandmother, who eyes gleam when she hears 3 young misses will come to visit…
I received a free advance copy from netgalley and voluntarily post this review.
This story is a fun tango involving courtship and persuasion, family obligations, and a blackmail mystery. Miss Fiona Hartley, a wealthy heiress, writes a note to Lord Ravenport proposing a marriage for their mutual benefit. He is baffled by it. He’s met her only once when he kindly picked her up off the ballroom floor where she’d fallen into the group of musicians. She needs something from him and she is offering him her sizeable dowry to fix his wreck of an estate. Ravenport is feeling a bit tender as his fiancee’ broke off their engagement when she saw the state of his manor house. He has no intention of marrying her out of the blue but he agrees to meet Fiona and hear her out. Fiona needs to marry within two weeks so she can access her money to pay off a blackmailer and protect her family. She does not share this with Davenport or her family. Both Fiona and Davenport are very engaging characters who make this an enjoyable read.
Oh, Fiona — struggling to meet a blackmailer’s demands and save her family, the intrepid debutante decides to propose to an earl who needs money as much as she does. Of course, Gray needs loads of cash, to refurbish his crumbling home and estate, and all Fiona wants is 5,000 pounds a year and a cottage in what she sees as a business arrangement. Desperate as the earl is, he’s not that desperate and the story moves on from there as he seeks to show her why he’s not husband material. Burned in love before, Gray is a damaged hero to die for — outwardly brooding but inside, vulnerable and yearning for love. Just like Fiona. How the two find their HEA, defeat the blackmailer and head off into the sunset is an engaging story, with witty dialogue and compelling characters. Most enjoyable. (I received an eARC from NetGalley. Opinions mine.)