When I first picked up Unveiled, I thought I knew what I was getting into. Disguises, an unexpected ascendancy to a dukedom, star-crossed lovers... there's a certain cadence to these things. However, with Milan, every new chapter brought a surprise. That was the joy of her book: never knowing what was going to happen next.

Other things I loved were the symbolism, the pacing, the characterizations of the Dalrymple family. Margaret was fascinating and watching her growth from a spoiled princess to a depressed and discarded bastard to a loving and selfless woman was very rewarding. Her family also avoided being stereotypical. They alternated between loving and mercenary while maintaining their individuality. Even though I didn't like them, I felt bad for them, and that's infinitely more important.

The one thing I didn't care for was the hero. I know I know. How can I dislike someone as selfless and rich and handsome as Ash who clearly worships the ground Margaret walks on? The reason is simple: he didn't feel human. No matter what Margaret did or said, he was never mad at her. He always did as she asked, what everyone asked, and while he did have his faults, they were framed in a way that he felt he wasn't perfect enough. So he had to keep doing things to be accepted, especially with his brothers. Ash's relationship with his brothers often over-shadowed the love story, and it just didn't feel romantic.

If you're looking for a unique romance with great characters, I highly recommend this. It's well worth a read, despite my reservations. ( )

As always, fascinating characters, unique and interesting plot, and multidimensional villains/conflict. Milan never disappoints! ( )

This was such a pleasure. I love sensible hurdles and smart and decent characters. I also love when the villains are real people acting out in self-interest rather than mustache twirling evildoers acting out for the sake of doing 😈 evil. A 4.5 for me. A fun Christmas day read. ( )

I smiled and laughed to myself like a crazy person reading this. Just delightful. Their courtship was sweet, and the characters were engaging.
2nd read- I think this is definitely underrated. It's really sort of beautiful, and has wonderful themes of loyalty, and love, and self worth. And handles the complicated relationships we have with our parents and siblings in a very insightful way also. Quite lovely all around. ( )

I almost didn't finish this one, could not stand the h, but I'm glad I did. The twist at the end worth it all. ( )