by Mary Balogh
Part of The Survivors' Club, book 2
First published 2013
Vincent Hunt, Lord Darleigh, flees his family estate to escape his mother's relentless matchmaking schemes. The Napoleonic War veteran lost his sight to a cannon blast and craves solitude to heal. Even at a remote country inn, marriage-minded locals set traps for the wealthy lord. Miss Sophia Fry rescues Vincent from one such scheme with her intervention. Her guardian throws her out for meddling, leaving her facing destitution. Vincent sees a solution that serves them both. He needs a wife of his own choosing, and she needs protection from poverty. Sophia initially refuses his proposal but eventually accepts when the alternative becomes too grim. Their marriage of convenience begins as a cold bargain between strangers. Vincent finds himself drawn to Sophia's captivating voice and quiet strength. Others dismiss her as mousy and invisible, but Vincent discovers her true worth. As they help each other navigate their new circumstances, friendship grows between them. Sweet seduction and physical pleasure follow. Their practical arrangement transforms into something neither expected as they find love born from mutual need.
Genres: romance, historical-fiction, adult-fiction, 19th-century
Vibes: emotional, intimate, thought-provoking
Tropes: enemies-to-lovers, found-family
Period: Napoleonic War
304 pages · Kindle Edition · Delacorte Press