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This is a lush, extravagant novel with heart and intelligence. American August Crenshaw is only known in London as a rich heiress susceptible to depleted aristocrats’ whims. Evan Sterling, the Duke of Rothschild, has been thrust into his role as duke by bad luck and heartache.
Evan’s coffers are depleted, and his family is destitute. He finds that he is selling himself to a rich father. Evan detests this situation, feeling as though he is prostituting himself to the highest bidder. The Crenshaws have decided they want a title to further their success and are willing to sacrifice either of their two daughters to do it.
Evan is doggedly determined to save his family and legacy. A legacy ruined by his father. Evan goes into this heiress hunt with decided reluctance. He never in a million years thinks he would find someone he could love. August is portrayed as the wronged party, and in many ways, she is, and rightfully so. However, I found myself empathizing with Evan. He has a silent strength and dignity even through his horrible circumstances. In some ways, he was a piece of property as much as August. He was arrogant yet had a determination of steel and a heart of gold.
August is an amazing young woman. She is intelligent, strong-willed, and is everything a well-bred young woman shouldn’t be. Not biddable or flirty, she yearns for independence in a world where that was nonexistent for women.
The author did an excellent job portraying a woman’s plight in this era. The story peeled back the glittering façade of the aristocracy’s splendor to show the plight of a young lady without any rights. Yet, the story still held beauty and romance.
The plot was captivating. The author did an excellent job of humanizing Evan. Evan had strengths and weaknesses but a quiet dignity underneath. August, although fiercely independent, had a venerability that showed a void that only love could fill.
The book was a page-turner, captivating me from the first. It moved at a lightning pace yet still held beautiful moments of romance. The passion between Evan and August was electric. There was a depth of emotion even in the secondary characters.
Ms. St. George has created a fresh, exhilarating, passionate new world. The rich texture and glittering romance shine from every page. I was captivated by the storyline and the characters. I didn’t want it to end! It was a beautifully written novel that I will recommend again and again.
I received an ARC of this book through Netgalley and Berkley Publishing Group, this is my honest, voluntary review.
This is the first novel I have read from Harper St. George. I am so happy I found her. The novel was breathtaking and romantic. There will be a second book about the sister Violet, which I am looking forward to reading. I picked this book up and couldn’t put it down! I love it when that happens. I am always looking for fresh, new authors. Until next time…keep reading!
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