Belles of London #3
By Mimi Matthews
Lady Anne Deveril may have captured the attention and heart of Mr. Felix Hart when she was younger. But she knows nothing he said or did all those years ago meant anything, but still, she can't abide him giving her hope of a future she hasn't yet achieved. Nearing a permanent place on the spinster shelf, she finds herself dressed in mourning for the last six years due to her mother's dictates. Wearing black has made her noticed in society and not in a good way, and it forced her to put away any thoughts of love or marriage. If only Felix, aka Hart, would find someone else to tempt with dreams of the past.
Felix Hartford, Hart to his friends and family, has never found anyone like Lady Anne. For some reason, she has captured his notice and his heart. When she comes to him seeking his assistance, he agrees with one stipulation, and it is a doozie. She must attend his grandfather's holiday house party and leave all her black mourning clothes at home. What's worse he actually suggested a most inappropriate color to wear - RED!
Considered by many to be a lazy charmer and a gadabout, Hart actually was hiding a secret. Well, more than one, but if discovered, they would have broken his grandfather's heart and ruined his uncle. And London society being what it was, some things are bound to be discovered, sort of. This leads to some misunderstandings, of course, which is both good and bad.
Anne and her mother are into spiritualism, which, though somewhat popular, is also frowned upon by polite society, especially by Hart's uncle. Old family friendships notwithstanding. But this is the very thing that Anne uses to "rescue" her friend. A friend whom everyone else is convinced is not in need of rescue. But Anne can't be convinced that dear Julia married of her own free will. And a rescue or visit must be attempted. But she'll have to persuade her mother that a journey must be taken, and here is where Hart and that favor she needs comes into play. Lies and webs
Overall, this was an enjoyable read. Some scenes may leave shaking your head. I have to admit at the beginning I much preferred Felix to Anne. One can see how Anne became the way she was, but there is more to it than can be seen by an outside observer. And then there is Felix who has his own family issues he's dealing with. I think when it comes down it, both Anne and Felix are alone in their struggle to find control while fulfilling what they feel is a duty to protect. And for both there is a great personal cost involved. But is it noble or foolish? That my fellow reader is for you to decide.
This was the first book I've read by Mimi Matthews, and I am looking forward to reading the previous two books in this series, the Belles of London. That being said, I do think this book can be read as a standalone title.
My complaint is the obsession with occultic activities. I realize that according to this book it was a fascination of many during the era but I found it a tad disturbing. And for my tastes just a bit too much romance, call me a prude if you must but there it is.
I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.
QUICK FACTS
Title: The Lily of Ludgate Hill
Series: Belles of London (Book 3)
Author: Mimi Matthews
Genre: Historical Romance, Historical Fiction
Publisher: Berkley Romance (January 16, 2024)
Length: (432) pages
Format: Trade paperback, eBook, & audiobook
ISBN: 978-0593337189
Tour Dates: January 15-29, 2024
About the Book:
A BookBub Best Romance of Winter 2024!
Fortune favors the bold—but is a confirmed spinster daring enough to loosen the reins and accept a favor from the wicked gentleman who haunts her dreams?
Lady Anne Deveril doesn’t spook easily. A woman of lofty social standing known for her glacial beauty and starchy opinions, she’s the unofficial leader of her small group of equestriennes. Since her mother’s devastating plunge into mourning six years ago, Anne voluntarily renounced any fanciful notions of love and marriage. And yet, when
fate puts Anne back into the entirely too enticing path of Mr. Felix Hartford, she’s tempted to run…right into his arms.
No one understands why Lady Anne withdrew into the shadows of society, Hart least of all. The youthful torch he once held for her has long since cooled. Or so he keeps telling himself. But now Anne needs a favor to help a friend. Hart will play along with her little ruse—on the condition that Anne attend a holiday house party at his grandfather’s
country estate. No more mourning clothes. No more barriers. Only the two of them, unrequited feelings at last laid bare.
Finally free to gallop out on her own, Anne makes the tantalizing discovery that beneath the roguish exterior of her not-so-white knight is a man with hidden depths, scorching passions—and a tender heart.
ADVANCE PRAISE
“It is truly a wonder how Matthews can consistently craft fresh romances featuring unique, multidimensional characters who face huge obstacles to their relationships. [A] lovely story of secrets and love lost and found.”— Booklist (starred review)
“Sparkling…Historical romance fans are sure to be moved.”— Publishers Weekly
“Matthews delivers another richly detailed and emotionally tender closed-door romance.”— Kirkus Reviews
“An engaging series installment offering a second chance at love to a spunky heroine and a hero with hidden depths.”— Library Journal
“No one writes Victorian romance like Mimi Matthews, and her Belles of London series just keeps getting better!"— Kate Quinn, New York Times bestselling author
“Mimi is truly a national treasure. All of her books are filled with such delicious chemistry and heart, and her writing is superb. This one is another winner. Highly recommend.”—Isabel Ibañez, #1 New York Times bestselling author of What the River Knows
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About the Author:
USA Today bestselling author Mimi Matthews writes both historical nonfiction and award-winning proper Victorian romances. Her novels have received starred reviews in Publishers Weekly, Library Journal, Booklist, and Kirkus, and her articles have been featured on the Victorian Web, the Journal of Victorian Culture, and in syndication at BUST Magazine. In her other life, Mimi is an attorney. She resides in California with her family, which includes a retired Andalusian dressage horse, a Sheltie, and two Siamese cats.
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