Viper Spaulding
Charming romance with lots of heart! Juliana, a young widow, meets Lucas, Viscount Audlington, in the middle of a crowded inn during a snowstorm. A predictable fling followed by a pre-dawn departure leaves Juliana referring to him as the Runaway Viscount as she quickly tries to put him out of her mind. Nearly two years later, however, they're both at the same house party - the very same party hosted by Lord and Lady Cosford that was the setting for The Bachelor Earl - and since matchmaking is very much on Lady Cosford's agenda, it's all Juliana can do to torment Lucas with her constant refusals until their undeniable chemistry brings them together again. But Lucas has developed a secret in the time they spent apart, and he doesn't quite handle that secret with as much openness as he should have, especially once they became serious about each other. Still, I was delighted with the turn of events, except, of course, the tragic carriage accident, but it was a unique twist that tested both his commitment and her willingness to open her heart to new challenges. I loved going back to the house party again, especially after having read Lord and Lady Cosford's story in the "Duke in a Box" anthology. The continuity between this book and The Bachelor Earl is outstanding, with the same scenes being portrayed from the different characters' points of view. Darcy Burke has long been one of my go-to authors for historical romance, and this book beautifully displays her exquisite writing talent. Lucas and Juliana's HEA is followed by a years-later epilogue, which was very satisfying. I highly recommend this charming romance, along with everything in this author's catalogue. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
Debbie ballard
Loved reading the fabulous and fantastic romance story. When the widow, Juliana, and Lucas, the viscount, spent a passionate night together, Juliana woke up the next morning to find Lucas, the runaway viscount gone. Then, two years later, Juliana sees Lucas again and realizes she is still upset with him for leaving her without saying good-bye. Read the highly recommended, wonderfully written, and a riveting must read love story. Can't wait to read the next story in the series!
Lisanne H.
Juliana, an all too trusting country widow, easily falls into a one night stand with Lucas. He ghosts her, which she kind of should have expected, as he admitted he was a rake and kind of entered her bedroom in a sketchy manner to begin with. Two years later, Lucas is persistent in trying to bed her again. This time Lucas is more marriage minded, but that may not be what Juliana wants.