I loved this book. I don’t think I have ever read a more heartfelt, romantic and sensual exposition of the process of falling in love. From strong physical attraction and magnetic awareness of the other person to a mutual delight in each other’s company, an ease of communication and an ability to make each other laugh, these early steps draw the reader in. As Max and Lily get to know each other better, there comes understanding, admiration, tenderness, a sense of “rightness” and an all-consuming desire to be together. It was a joy to watch their story unfold.
However, the obstacles to their “Happy Ever After” are quite considerable: not least that the hero is betrothed to the heroine’s sister. How could two decent, honourable people solve this problem with grace and without harm to the innocent party? It is down to the author’s skill that all parties emerge with dignity and honour intact.
Max and Lily are wonderfully drawn characters. I especially like that Lily is not in the first flush of youth and she reminds me of the best Georgette Heyer heroines. A soldier’s widow, she has wide experience of life’s joys and heartbreaks. The latter have taken their toll and have changed her. She has also made mistakes and learnt from them, although she still lacks confidence in her own judgement. Despite her mother’s coldness and disapproval, Lily has carved out an independent life for herself. It is her maturity, intelligence, sense of humour and self-knowledge make her an interesting and equal match for Max.
I defy anyone not to fall in love with Max. He is gorgeous – inside and out. His intrinsic decency shines through in his dealings with Anne and her family. He may not love her (not a requirement for Regency marriage) but he fully intends to do his best by her and would not renege on his commitment to her. However, he had not expected to fall in love and certainly not with his fiancée's sister. I enjoyed watching him fight what he thinks is just physical attraction. And yet, as his relationship with Lily progresses, he shows us more and more of his heart-melting characteristics. He is clever, compassionate, sensitive, protective, funny, artistic and family orientated: qualities that I find so, so sexy.
The last third of the book is almost exclusively devoted to the denouement of Max and Lily’s love story. It is a rare luxury to spend so much time in their company, watching them edge towards a satisfying “happy ever after”. There is so much warmth, affection, humour, passion and understanding between them that the reader is willing them to break down the final defences that bar their way. For me, this was a truly wonderful read. It brought me so much joy and pleasure. I just loved it.
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