I have loved every word of this series. Can’t wait to see where we go next.

This was a lovely surprise. A working class hero and aristocrat heroine?! Always a treat.

I found the slightly different perspective of Regency england really engaging. Where by no means completely out of mayfair, but the author shows us a wider perspective of the world and possibilities outside of the more typical wealthy safety nets.

Our Hero and Heroine both have unhappy family obligations and troubling personal conflicts. It lent a slightly melancholy feel to the opening chapters, as their mindsets were rather (understandably) gloomy. Then they kind of stumble into each other’s orbit by chance, and the whole mood lifted. They’re a tad antagonistic to start, but each interaction is a fresh spark. After that it was a lovely slow build to admiration, trust, and love. I thought the writing style was a little unique in the sense that the author didn’t focus on any of the typical regency tropes and scenery.

Our Hero is working class and struggling financially. Something you don’t see often in this genre. He’s also a red head with freckles ❤️. A bit inexperienced in an honest and realistic way. But mostly a good person trying desperately to find a way free of his tyrant of a father, which has lead him to making some dishonest choices. I really felt for Rafe’s seemingly insurmountable situation and his desire to find a way free under his own merit.

Our heroine, Sophie, is deeply grieving the loss of her brother while stoically taking on the burden of “saving the family estate.” You get a sense that she used to be a bit of free spirit, but she’s buried it under her guilt and obligations. She’s clearly fighting her own instincts as she try’s to conform to what her parents “need” her to be. Interactions with Rafe bring out her whit and charm. I really enjoyed how empathetic her character was. She makes up her mind pretty quick and absolutely calls Rafe out when he lets her down. She was quick to question injustice and step up to help. An easy heroine to root for. These two were not your typical charming rake and fiery debutante.

This book was a bit of fresh air and since it’s only the second release from this author, I’m really looking forward to whatever she writes next.

Highly recommend to my fellow historical readers who are seeking new voices in a genre thats gone rather quiet over the last few years.