Veena’s review of Merely a Marriage by Jo Beverly
Regency Romance published by Berkley Sensation 30 May 17
This is Ms. Beverley’s last book and as such carries much sentimental value to a fan who’s enjoyed her stories for a great many years. I am truly sorry to say goodbye to a great author.
Ariana wants her brother Norris to marry but falls prey to a bet with him that brings her to London, after many years away, to seek a husband.
Her sojourn in London brings her into the fringes of the world inhabited by the Rogues and we get to visit with a few. Most importantly, the first person she meets is the Earl Of Kynaston, who was the prime cause of her fleeing from London eight years ago and possibly the reason for her spinster state. Unfortunately, the handsome young man she remembers has changed into a grief-stricken drunk. Given that they’re temporarily sharing the same roof, she’s thrown into close proximity with him with a scandal soon brewing.
As Ariana meets and discards suitors, the earl hovers in the background, enticing her in much the same way his sister attracts her determined-to-stay-a-bachelor brother Norris. When scandalous cartoons find their way to the Ton, Ariana is confronted with the choice to cut and run or marry the earl or hold her head high and ignore the gossip. The story makes for an interesting read as the two protagonists fence with each other.
As it turns out, the earl has some sad history that haunts him and keeps him from making choices for their mutual happiness. Can Ariana wear him down to her way of thinking? Read this historical romp to find out how it all turns out.
Grade: C
Summary:
The New York Times bestselling author of The Viscount Needs a Wife returns with another roguishly delicious Regency romance…
As England mourns the death of Princess Charlotte, Lady Ariana Boxstall has another succession in mind. Her brother, Norris, is a strapping young man, but he’s also happily unmarried and childless. Norris agrees to take a wife on one condition: that Ariana take a husband first. Although she realizes she risks a lifetime in a loveless marriage, for the sake of her family, Ariana accepts his challenge.
When the Earl of Kynaston met Ariana eight years ago, he broke her heart. Since then, his own heart has been broken, and he’s sworn off love…until he sees Ariana all grown-up and his resolve is threatened.
Could Ariana’s bargain with Norris actually lead her to happiness? With real love on the line, she must win over the one man who refuses to be had.
No excerpt available.
