by Mary Balogh
First published 2003
Lady Freyja Bedwyn has grown bold and fearless living among her four unruly brothers. Her fiery temperament and cascading hair mark her as different from typical society women. During a stay in Bath, a handsome stranger named Joshua Moore bursts into her room seeking refuge. The Marquess of Hallmere carries his own reputation for raising hell, and Freyja's independent spirit immediately captures his attention. Joshua proposes an unusual bargain: Freyja should pretend to be his betrothed to help him escape his family's marriage plans. For two people who prize their freedom above all else, the arrangement seems ideal. But as their charade continues, unexpected passion threatens to upend everything. Joshua begins pursuing Freyja in earnest, determined to win her completely. Meanwhile, Freyja finds herself confronting feelings she never anticipated, risking the one thing she swore never to surrender.
Genres: romance, historical-romance, 19th-century, regency
Vibes: emotional, intimate, suspenseful
Tropes: enemies-to-lovers, fake-dating
Setting: Bath
Period: 19th-century
416 pages · Library Binding · Center Point Pub