Rating: *****– 5 Stars
GENRE: Regency Romance
BOOK SUMMARY: Marianne Daventry will do anything to escape the boredom of Bath and the amorous attentions of an unwanted suitor. So when an invitation arrives from her twin sister, Cecily, to join her at a sprawling country estate, she jumps at the chance. Thinking she’ll be able to relax and enjoy her beloved English countryside while her sister snags the handsome heir of Edenbrooke, Marianne finds that even the best laid plans can go awry. From a terrifying run-in with a highwayman to a seemingly harmless flirtation, Marianne finds herself embroiled in an unexpected adventure filled with enough romance and intrigue to keep her mind racing. Will Marianne be able to rein in her traitorous heart, or will a mysterious stranger sweep her off her feet? Fate had something other than a relaxing summer in mind when it sent Marianne to Edenbrooke.
REVIEWER COMMENTS: I read this book twice in a week. Set in England in the early 1800’s, this is regency romance at its best. Donaldson’s writing style satisfies even the most traditional of Jane Austen’s fandom. The main characters, Marianne and Philip, engage in a friendship/relationship which is beautifully paced, and full of deep and witty dialogues that hold the reader hostage until the last page is turned. Marianne is the shy less-than perfectly beautiful character who’s been overlooked all her life, and finds someone way above her station who sees her and appreciates her for who she is. While this concept has been popularly used in fiction, it is still new and fresh in this story. I found Marianne’s humility and cluelessness about the power of her charms endearing, and Philip’s love for her pure and sincere. The romantic element is strong and filled with passion and yet it stays within the lines of propriety of that era. I cannot say enough about how wonderful this book is. You just have to read it yourself!
SEXUAL CONTENT: A few passionate kisses.
*Conclusion: The best regency romance I’ve read so far. Highly recommended!
Sensible Romance 