Victoria Sutton is 21-year-old woman in her third season in regency-era London. Despite her beauty and charm, she can’t seem to secure a husband – mostly, she assumes, is due to her inability to read. But she wishes to marry for love anyway, and not feel pressured to suppress her personality for the sake of her partner. Her sister Lenora, on the other hand, is engaged to the handsome and wealthy Viscount Dominic Kelbourne. Both of whom are known to be cold and cruel. Torie sees them as perfect for each other – and she absolutely would not dream of looking at her sister’s fiancé, or his muscles, in any inappropriate manner. But when the Viscount’s sister suddenly dies, he becomes the adoptive father of his 11-year-old niece and nephew. The twins are fond of ghost stories and unfamiliar with proper manners. While Torie finds them charming, her sister refuses to become stepmother to the two “fiends.” Lenora breaks off the engagement, leaving Dominic in search of a wife who will fit in with the children. Obviously, Torie would be the best option. But she does not want to simply be a nanny. And Dominic doesn’t expect to ever fall in love. But sure enough, both of them are surprised by what develops from the arrangement. Viscount in Love by Eloisa James explores what happens when a marriage of convenience turns into an opposites attract story in which both characters get the happily ever after they never expected.
Book
While unable to read, Torie decides to express herself through art. And due to society’s “rules” for women during this time, she she isn’t able to broaden her skills into painting subjects other than flowers or rabbits. Nevertheless, her friendship with the twins, Florence and Valentine, allows her to be unabashedly herself without risking criticism from others. This friendship also renders the twins in favor of their uncle marrying Torie after her sister jilts him. And while a Duke is interested in making Torie his wife, Dominic stops at nothing to make her his. And boy, does he get creative.
Torie can’t deny her attraction to Dominic. Nor can she ignore the constant disagreements between them. Even so, she remains true to herself and insists that her husband respect her for who she is. This, of course, is all new to Dominic. He is not used to such an unconventional personality in women. Even so, his lust for her turns into something more. And if he has anything to say about it, he will make her fall for him too.
Review
James delivers a delightful love story with Viscount in Love. Dominic, while somewhat broody and unaffectionate, grows a soft spot for the twins and Torie. He shows a side of him that is caring, protective, and capable of growth. Torie, of course, is an admirable protagonist who has the thick skin to live her truth, despite what society expects of her. Plus, the romance between them felt natural and believable. However, Florence and Valentine stole the show. Their quirkiness and enthusiasm were just the ticket to bring Torie and Dominic together. With endearing characters, steamy romance, and insight into regency-era life, readers will not be able to put this one down.
