ABOUT THE BOOK
Tamsin Palmer—the recently widowed Duchess of Clevesly—has almost anything a woman of common birth could want: wealth, title, estate, and even her adored toddler son. But it’s not exactly easy. She’s been ostracized by the ton due to her decidedly unblue blood. And worse still, her dearly departed duke has assigned a co-guardian of their son: the handsome (if insufferable) Count of Rauchberg, who seems most insistent on dictating the terms of Tamsin’s duchy. But not if she has anything to say about it…
Christian August has never been so vexed in his life. He’s come to help raise the duchess’s son, and in return, she’s doing everything she can to destroy his peace of mind. Unleashing goats, secretly shortening the cuffs of his shirts, and—damn the infernal woman—driving him to distraction with her flashing eyes and soft, kissable lips. It’s enough to make a man forget his duty…
With every argument, the longing grows stronger. With every diabolical prank, the temptation becomes greater. And they’ll risk everything to win…even if it means surrendering to a passion that will destroy them both.
MY REVIEW
I always enjoy Ms. McLean’s stubborn and noble characters, and Tamsin and Christian have that in spades.
At first glance, Christian’s arrogant personality is grating as he adheres to his duties being the guardian to Tamsin’s son and executor of her estate. His inability to listen or empathize with Tamsin’s situation is frustrating and makes for a rocky start for the protagonists. However, Christian’s transformation from grouch to hero seems organic and believable as he begins to admire the strong and beautiful Tamsin as she stands up to his intrusion and defies his demands to follow his wishes. Overall, it’s his final selfless act that made me fall for Christian completely. It is one of the best grand gestures of love that I’ve seen in a long time.
Tamsin is a wealthy merchant’s daughter who is a widow of a Duke. However, society does not recognize her status and shuns her at every turn. Fed up with people telling her what to do and how to act, she stands by her convictions to not let Christian dictate her life. Tamsin’s warmth and compassion shine brightly against the rejection from the ton as she gives an anonymous voice to those who otherwise remain unheard. Christian doesn’t like her dangerous venture that would ruin her for good, but he supports her and vows to protect her. It is refreshing to see her give into her desires and break down Christian’s proper resolve.
Ms. McLean’s presents an interesting enemies to lovers plot dealing with obligations to duty and skirting around strict marriage laws of other nations in the name of love.
The loyal circle of friends to both of the protagonists is a wonderful addition to the story. They demonstrate that love, loyalty, and friendship thrive on shared values rather than societal approval.
I recommend this delightful romantic story about true nobility that lies not in birth, but in courage, love, and the unwavering spirit to forge one’s path on one’s own terms. Bravo!
Thank you to Ms. McLean for giving me the opportunity to read this book with no expectation of a positive review.
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Michelle McLean is a jeans and t-shirt kind of girl who is addicted to chocolate and goldfish crackers and spent most of her formative years with her nose in a book. She has a B.S. in History, a M.A. in English, and loves her romance with a touch of suspenseful mystery. She resides in PA with her husband and two amazing children.
Follow Michelle on her website, Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest.
