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I wished I had a thousand stars! I have made remarks regarding my all-time favorite books before in my reviews. An all-time favorite book must tear down my expectations and create a romance masterpiece. The Making Of A Gentleman does this and goes one step further. Not only is this book outstanding, but the entirety of the Beautiful Barringtons books are my favorite historical romance series. These books have hijacked my emotions and taken me on a passionate, nerve-wracking, unique journey. They are all exquisite, and The Making Of A Gentleman is another crowning achievement for Kathleen Ayers.
I have been impatiently waiting for Ben’s story since The Wager Of A Lady. I was instantly infatuated, and my curiosity peaked when we were introduced to Ben. Ben Cooke is rough around the edges and a wolf dressed in finery. Ben’s dark edges are unescapable and drew me in like a moth to a flame!
Poor Olivia! She is the singular anomaly in the Barrington family. She is everything proper and decorous. Being a ward of the Barringtons, Olivia is hungry for the acceptance of her maternal grandfather. Blinded by the conniving man, Olivia is determined to become the perfect granddaughter, even if she loses herself. Olivia is the last in her family line and allows duty to crush desire.
Ben and Olivia’s introduction is pure fire! The natural sensuality the couple exudes is undeniable. Ben and Olivia’s scenes together made my pulse pound for their passionate connection but also for the romantic nature of the encounters. The couple’s journey took me to places I didn’t expect. I loved how Ben and Olivia reacted to situations; their thought processes were intriguing.
As much as I adore Ben and Olivia, I would be remiss if I didn’t mention my favorite scene. It isn’t a passionate or heart-stopping scene, although there are many excellent ones. However, it is the family dinner at the beginning of the book. It was so much fun having all the family back together. I laughed until I cried at Leo and Tony’s antics. I loved seeing a family that has seen their share of tragedy be able to have fun and be playful. I wanted to be a member of the Barringtons! It speaks volumes about Kathleen Ayers that she can create these characters that I care about so deeply that I want to be one of them!
The Making Of A Gentleman is the sixth book in The Beautiful Barringtons. Three of these six books (including this one) are contenders for my book of the year. I have never had a situation where books in the same series compete with each other. Kathleen Ayers has created six exquisite masterpieces of historical romance! If you are new to these books, I highly recommend you read the entire series as it enriches each book. Ben and Olivia’s romance pulled at my heartstrings, and I didn’t want this raw, beautiful, passionate journey to end. I will end with this; please warn me if Phaedra’s story is next so I can prepare myself! I think that girl’s journey will be a wild ride that will make even Tony and Leo blush! These magnificent books will transport you to a place filled with heartache and joy, romance and passion, and the most perfect happily-ever-afters. Bravo, Kathleen Ayers, for stealing my heart yet again!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance copy of this book through the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Release Date: November 1, 2022