Instant New York Times BestsellerOnce the Countess of Riverdale, Viola Kingsley throws all caution to the wind when adventure calls in the form of a handsome aristocrat. . . .Two years after the death of the Earl of Riverdale, his family has overcome the shame of being stripped of their titles and fortune–except for his onetime countess, Viola. With her children grown and herself no longer part … With her children grown and herself no longer part of the social whirl of the ton, she is uncertain where to look for happiness–until quite by accident her path crosses once again with that of the Marquess of Dorchester, Marcel Lamarr.
Marcel Lamarr has been a notorious womanizer since the death of his wife nearly twenty years earlier. Viola caught his eye when she herself was a young mother, but she evaded his seduction at the time. A prize that eluded him before, she is all the more irresistible to him now although he is surprised to discover that she is as eager now for the excitement he offers as he is himself.
When the two defy convention and run away together, they discover that the ties of respectability are not so easily severed, and pleasure can ensnare you when you least expect it. . . .
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I loved it. Beautiful
3 stars because it’s formulaic and predictable. Normally, I really enjoy Ms. Balogh’s work. But this one is tired
Good story unnecessary detailed sex
So far, I’ve found this series to be short on likable heroes. The heroines all struggle with shame and remaking their lives, but the heroes are simply drawn.
Classic Mary Balogh. Viola is recovering from the biggest disaster of her life and despairing that her life no longer has any purpose. Marcel has been running away from his despair for the past 18 years. Now they have a chance to reconstruct a missed opportunity at love they had with each other 14 years ago. Driven by fear they each find ways to deny and try to destroy what could be true happiness with each other. With the determination of family members, they are able to see past the obstacles and realize the gift that awaits them in a lifetime together.
I liked a more mature woman involved with romance. And really, I read everything Mary Balogh writes.
I love anything Mary Balogh writes. Her books are feel good stories peopled with decent individuals. They are romantic without being x-rated.
I always like this author’s books – her characters are so likable and there is often humor as well as adversity. I also like the predictably happy endings. When reading for entertainment, I find that no matter the twists of plot and fate in the story, having confidence that it will all turn out in the end makes the book much more enjoyable.
I love Mary’s books always
I loved reading my audiobook. I will read it again and again just for the joy of visiting these characters and this time in space once again.
She just keeps writing better, and better, and better. Characters are always complex. And, she writes with such heart!
Mary Balogh has a soft spot for aloof near-scoundrels (see Bedwyn, Wulfric). This time it’s Marcel Lamar. Though there’s never a doubt that he’ll eventually soften, it’s the process that fascinates. Balogh is a master at characterization, which is beautifully on display here.
Always love Mary Balogh books, and this is another good one.
Burrowes a wonderful writer.
Love books by this author. I have a lot of her books!
Not the typical story, mature ladyfinds love
I love all of her books
Great story…great read..one of the best author in this genre..
I love Mary Balough as an author. This book was very good.
I was afraid that this would be the first Mary Balogh book I didn’t care for, how wrong I was. The premise of the book didn’t appeal to me, I should have known that Mary Balogh could make a paint ingredients list wonderful to read. I’ve passed the book on to my daughter to read, she loves it, too.