Date published: April 1st, 2013
Publisher: Crimson Romance
Synopsis: In Lord Hugh Davenport’s opinion, women of the ton perpetually hide behind a mask of deception. That’s hard for Ellie Albright, the daughter of an earl, to swallow—especially since she’s disguised herself as a stable hand to get back the prized stallion her father sold to Hugh to pay a debt. If Hugh learns her true identity she’ll lose the horse and her family will go bankrupt. Somehow, though, losing Hugh’s affection is beginning to seem even worse.
Already only a step away from being snagged in her own web of lies, Ellie’s deceit threatens to spin out of control when Hugh’s mother invites Ellie and her sisters to a house party. Now Ellie has to scramble to keep Hugh from knowing she’s the stable girl he wants to marry, while simultaneously trying to win his trust as herself. Can she keep her costumes straight long enough to save her family? And even if she does, will it be worth losing his love?
What I Thought:
It feels like I haven't read a great historical romance novel in ages. I'm so glad I read this book, especially since it's not the typical historical romance. Don't let the lovely cover fool you. The story had a more Gothic feel to it.
I read this book in no time. I was caught up in Ellie's escapades. I liked that she was proactive when things seemed wrong at her house and she was willing to go to extreme lengths to get back her beloved horse. There were moments when I laughed, cringed, was worried and anxious. There were almost moments when I needed to fan myself, because they were so hot! I was a more than a little amazed by Hugh and his incapability to see Ellie behind her costume when he professed to love the stable girl version of her so much. I also really liked the suspense/mystery aspect of the story even though it wasn't very clear why Ellie's family was targeted. I'm guessing the mystery will be spread out over the remaining books in the series.
This book is sort of reminiscent of Gothic novelist Victoria Holt. If you're a fan of romances with twists, then this book is for you. I'm looking forward to the next installment in the The Albright Sisters series. I can't wait to see what Elf Ahearn does!
On a side note, I met Elf at Romantic Times conference earlier this year and she was just lovely. We actually had this very nice conversion but never exchanged names. I was very happy to be introduced to her by my brother of all people!
Purchase Links;
About the Author
Elf (yes, that is her real name), is a professional writer and editor with twenty years of experience in journalism, corporate communications and now romance writing - her favorite job of all.
* A copy was provided by the author in exchange for a honest review. All opinions are my
own and I was not compensated for them in any manner.*
Chanpreet, thank you so much for the lovely review. I'm very pleased you liked the book, yet reviewed it honestly.
ReplyDeleteI remember you and your brother at RT very well. He seemed so solicitous of your needs, and was very charming and intelligent about the romance genre, ( a rare trait in a man). I hope we'll meet again someday at another conference!
You are so very welcome Elf. :)
DeleteI will be sure to pass on your compliments to him. He used to "borrow" my romance novels when we were teens, and I'm glad he was able to converse intelligently about them. I hope to see you at RT and/or RWA next year! :)