A delicious, playful love story to start off a much anticipated new series.

I must say that I consider myself a complete Julia Quinn fan. I have read each and every one of her books and can honestly say that I enjoyed all of them. Some of my favorite characters are part of her numerous historical romances including the Bridgerton Series. After having read about the Smythe-Smith cousins throughout Julia’s books, I couldn’t wait to pick up this first novel in the series. To my utter disappointment, I didn’t love it. It was a really good read and the love story was sweet and passionate but it was a little too short and a little too vanilla for my tastes – and I am not talking about the heat.

Honoria Smythe-Smith is on the hunt for a husband but having little success. With her oldest brother Daniel in exile on the continent, she has been followed around by his best friend Markus Holroyd, the Earl of Chatteris. Honoria and Markus have been friends for years and neither of them has any clue about the depth of affection they hold for each other until a desperate Honoria, trying to trick another man into compromising her, sets a trap that leads to a minor injury for Markus. But what should have been a simple sprained ankle turns into a deadly infection that almost takes his life. While nursing him back to health, Honoria and Markus discover that they are truly meant for one another but their pride stands in the way of their happiness.

As you can see from the mini synopsis above, the story is very simple and that is part of the problem. I wanted a bit more complexity and a deeper conflict. There is nothing really standing in the way for Markus and Honoria but their undiscovered feelings for each other. I think I would have enjoyed the book that much more if there was something more in the plot that gripped me and held me to the love story. However, I found myself reading funny little scenes, playful interactions, and then this love emerged. It was a perfectly timed moment to fall in love and the reader feels it in their bones.

Now enough of the criticism because this book has way more positives to expand on… I worship Julia’s characterization and witty humor that wraps her readers in her dialogue and has you laughing out loud at some of her outrageous scenarios. Her characters are so vibrant and lovable that I didn’t want to put down the book. Honoria might have a less-than romantic name but her fiery spirit and devotion to her family made me love her. Markus is that rare breed of romantic hero that doesn’t have to be dark and brooding to be swoon-worthy. His humour and loveable personality will make you want to take him home to your mother.

Even the secondary characters, some of which I am sure we will see in future novels, shine brightly and keep the reader interested in the story. Lady Danbury makes a much anticipated appearance and she is sticking her cane where it doesn’t belong once again. Readers will also note the comeback of ‘Miss Butterworth and the Mad Baron’ which had me giggling out loud while reading on the subway.

Overall, I may not have loved this book but I did enjoy it absolutely. Fantastic characters, heart-felt affection, and a beautiful romance ensure that this little historical will find its place on my book shelf with my other keepers.