The Infamous Duchess - Diamonds in the Rough #4
by Sophie Barnes
What they say: A woman with a shocking past…
Branded a money-hungry con artist for marrying the elderly Duke of Tremaine days before his death, Viola Cartwright has found refuge in her work at St. Agatha’s Hospital. No one must know the painful reason behind her marriage. She steers clear of attachments—until Henry Lowell, heir to the Viscount Armswell, lands on her operating table after a duel. Charming and wickedly handsome, Lowell is one of London’s most inveterate scoundrels. Yet he may not be all that he appears.
And the man who can promise a future filled with love…
Posing as an unrepentant rake has helped Lowell avoid women pursuing him only for his title. But now that duty has finally called on him to marry, he finds himself entranced by the mysterious, independent-minded Viola. Then her late husband’s son returns from overseas, contesting Viola’s inheritance. Lowell longs to help her and sets out to convince Viola that a strategic union may be the best way to save all she holds dear. But can he also persuade her to take a chance on love…?
Releases 26th March by Avon books.
I received a copy in exchange for an honest review!
What I say: Some say Viola is a money grabbing, social climber, whilst others would say she's a bit odd. I'd say she's really unlucky and has suffered a lot of pain in her life so far.
Her marriage to the much older, and unwell Duke of Tremaine days before his death, see Viola in a elevated position as a wealthy Duchess, but she has no interest in society and prefers to develop her hospital and use her position for good.
Current Viscount and future Earl, Henry finds himself the target for many matchmaking mothers and sets himself the reputation of rake to avoid marriage. He finds himself in hospital, being treated by a beautiful woman. Little does he know that she's actually the infamous Duchess of Tremaine!
The story is sweet and funny. In this cold weather, it's lovely to read a story set in another lifetime.
I enjoyed all the medical interludes and Viola's passion to help people is a delight to see. I enjoyed their slow burning friendship and wanted them to find a HEA. The secondary characters are an interesting bunch - I liked Florian!
4 Stars in my Sky!
Thank you so much for taking the time to read and review!
ReplyDelete