Ellie Vyne never had much sympathy for men, until she temporarily became one

Her secret life as the gambling Count de Bonneville is helping her take care of her family and it is going to land her in more trouble than she ever dreamed.  She is classified as an outspoken old maid at 27 years old according to society’s standards, but she is perfectly happy being single and has broken several engagements to prove it.  Disguised as the Count she is given a lavish diamond necklace as an IOU payment from Lady Ophelia Southwold.  What she doesn’t know is that the necklace belongs to James Hartley.   The one man she despised since she was 16 years old when she overheard him denigrating her character in public.

That Vyne woman is a danger to herself and to anyone who has the misfortune of crossing her path!

James Hartley is rich, arrogant, and furious with Count de Bonneville for taking “The Hartley Diamonds” and he will get them back one way or another.  However, when he goes to the Count’s dwelling, he finds Ellie Vyne lying in his bed.  The young lady he has disliked since she was young and who painted a mustache on his face when he was sleeping under a tree.

After having a scandalous dance at Lady Clegg-Foster’s party, they make a pact to become engaged to fend off the matchmaking crowd.  The provisions to their engagement become shocking and brazen and make for a sexy pairing.

With the help of the young Lady Mercy Danforthe, Ellie’s Aunt Lizzie, and James’ valet, Grieves, this story is funny and engaging and there is never a dull moment.  I couldn’t put it down.

Thank you to Ms. Fresina, Sourcebooks, and NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to review this book.