⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
Oh, how I loved Jonathan and Constance’s romantic journey! This is a story of best friends finding each other again after tragedy. Both Jonathan and Constance have suffered greatly in the years they have been apart. Jonathan is a shell of the man he once was. Ravaged by war injuries, both emotional and physical, he barely exists. Jonathan’s journey to healing was hauntingly beautiful. His struggles were visceral, and at times he was horrible towards Constance, lashing out at those who loved him the most. But my, his redemption was beautiful to behold! With Constance’s help, Jonathan grows into a loving, resilient version of himself; he is still broken but is healing.
Constance has gone through heartache and deception. She is left with a daughter and the scandal of her late husband’s three wives. Constance turns to the one constant in her life – Jonathan. She feels she and Jonathan can find healing together. Constance is independent, fierce, and loyal. She fights for Jonathan when he refuses to fight for himself – until she can’t. I loved the moment when Constance realized only Jonathan could save himself, and she must do what is best for her and her daughter. That moment was heart-wrenching, and it took my breath.
The chemistry of these friends-to-lovers is sizzling. Their connection was held together by a single thread at times; however, love found a way through the pain. The plot was thoughtful and poignant. The pace flowed well, and the writing was sharp and unrelenting in telling the difficulties wounded soldiers face. The secondary characters were wonderfully written, giving depth and feeling to the novel. The last chapter and epilogue were mesmerizing. Rules For Engaging The Earl is the second book in The Widow Rules series. I enjoyed this book even more than the first. It took me on a rollercoaster ride of emotions. Janna MacGregor weaves a gritty, starkly human romance full of angst, healing, and love. This book was captivating, hard to read at times, is so visceral, but well worth the journey.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance copy of this book through Netgalley and the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Release Date: April 26, 2022
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