ABOUT THE BOOK:
Innkeeper’s daughter Mina Scott will do anything to escape the drudgery of her life. She saves every penny to attend a finishing school, dreaming of the day she’ll become a real lady—and catch the eye of William Barlow, a frequent guest at the inn.
William is a gentleman’s son, a charming rogue but penniless. However, his bachelor uncle will soon name an heir—either him or his puritanical cousin. In an effort to secure the inheritance, William gives his uncle the impression he’s married, which works until he’s invited to bring his wife for a visit.
William asks Mina to be his pretend bride, only until his uncle names an heir on Christmas Day. Mina is flattered and frustrated by the offer, for she wants a true relationship with William. Yet, she agrees. . .then wishes she hadn’t as she comes to love the old man. And when the truth is finally discovered, more than just money is lost.
Can two hearts survive such a deception?
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Michelle Griep’s been writing since she first discovered blank wall space and Crayolas. She is the author of historical romances: The Captured Bride, The Innkeeper’s Daughter, 12 Days at Bleakly Manor, The Captive Heart, Brentwood’s Ward, A Heart Deceived, and Gallimore, but also leaped the historical fence into the realm of contemporary with the zany romantic mystery Out of the Frying Pan. If you’d like to keep up with her escapades, find her at www.michellegriep.com or stalk her on Facebook, Twitter, or Pinterest.
MY REVIEW:
This is the second book in the Once Upon A Dicken's Christmas series, but it definitely stands alone and I was never lost at any time during this delightful read. It was a wonderful way to start my Christmas season reading!
I really enjoyed the character of Mina as I could relate to her love of reading. She is always looking for ways to improve herself and make her life in a way she would like. Of course, this can also lead to trouble as it does for her and Will, someone she likes very much.
Will has come to her father's Inn and she is smitten with him from the very start. When he asks her to pretend to be his bride, she jumps at the chance. From here we are taken into their complicated lie that leads them into one complication after another.
This is a story of romance set in the 1850's, so what's not to love? A story of redemption and faith makes it that more enjoyable. It was a lovely little book and I highly recommend it. I give it 5 out of 5 stars.
*This book was provided to me by Celebration Lit. I received a copy of this book to review but I was not financially compensated in any way. The opinions expressed are my own and are based on my observations while reading this book.
Blessings - Julie
This book sounds like a fantastic read.
ReplyDelete