Historical Romance published by Entangled Amara 27 Sep 22
After reading historical romance for a number of years, I find myself having a difficult time with the genre lately, preferring romantic suspense. Jennifer Haymore was a favorite of mine back then, so when I discovered she had this new release, I hoped maybe she could break through my historical romance barrier.
And I’m glad to see she has done so. I enjoyed the hero and heroine of this story very much. As they developed over the course of the book, they became so much more interesting and intriguing along the way.
Jo is a successful matchmaker, bringing together couples to enjoy a loving life together, just as her parents had experienced. But since her father‘s death, Jo and her ragtag family have had difficult times. However, her next client is the Duke of Crestmont, and if she can match him with the perfect duchess, it would be a huge career boost for her. So, despite the fact she herself is a spinster and lonely at times, she is determined to make the match of her life, while also helping a dear friend achieve her happily ever after.
Crestmont doesn’t have time for love, nor does he believe in the emotion. He does his best to give Jo the information she needs to find his duchess, but she thwarts him at every turn, prolonging the time they spend together. He finds himself eventually looking at the perfection he thought he wanted in a very different light. He also begins to see Jo in a way he’s never looked at another woman.
Knowing she cannot have a loving relationship with the duke, despite how very much she wants it, Jo continues with her well-thought-out plan, but she discovers very quickly how even the best-laid plans go awry.
I enjoyed the banter between these characters in the beginning, watching the Duke unwind and begin to see the world of love differently after spending time with Jo, though he has a very difficult time admitting that. The burn that erupts between them is intense and all consuming, despite the fact they both know nothing more can happen between them.
Just when you think things may turn their way, betrayal comes without warning. It takes quite a bit of introspection for both of them to come out on the other side whole and happy and this is done quite well. I enjoyed the way everything came together in the end.
I am glad I gave Ms. Haymore a chance with this book. She has given me hope that I will once again enjoy reading historical romance.
Grade: B
Summary:
Joanna Porter loves being one of London’s hottest up-and-coming matchmakers. But her heavenly vocation is about to turn into a nuptial nightmare—thanks to the Duke of Crestmont. He’s as handsome as he is insufferable and obsessed with all things proper. Matching him would cement Jo’s status as England’s greatest matchmaker. Except, of course, the impossible-to-please duke refuses all of her most eligible ladies…confirming his status as a complete and utter pain in her petticoats.
The Duke of Crestmont can’t believe he needs a matchmaker—let alone this spitfire of a woman whose kissable mouth and dancing, impertinent gray eyes tease him ruthlessly. But the people of his estate are counting on him to find a duchess. A proper lady with a flawless pedigree and immaculate deportment. So why can’t he stop himself from wanting his pert, lively matchmaker…instead of the perfect duchess?
Now the entire ton is watching as this determined, audacious matchmaker takes on the most powerful man in London.
No excerpt available.
