I think this is the first Sherry Thomas where it felt a bit uneven for me? I loved so many scenes in this book and the sexual tension in the first half was superb! But as a whole, the story seemed . . . disjointed. And, look, Sherry Thomas's writing is fucking brilliant, so who even cares what I think!? I might give this a reread later and revisit my initial response. ( )

*4.5 ( )

Felix Rivendale, the Marquess of Wrenworth, is The Ideal Gentleman, but after a childhood being used as a pawn by his mother against his father, he has sworn he won't be made weak by love.

Louisa Cantwell's mother has an annuity that supports her and her daughters - but that will end with her death, and it's up to Louisa to provide for their family, including beloved younger sister Matilda, who has epilepsy.

Louisa plans to use her one London season to make a sensible match that will allow her to support her sisters; Lord Wrenworth would be an impossible catch. Yet she desires him, and seems to see through his "Ideal Gentleman" facade; and he desires her as well, even offering to make her his mistress and pay her well. Louisa holds out for marriage, and incredibly, her gamble pays off - but will either of them let down their guard enough for their marriage to be a loving one?

Had to pause while watching season 1 of Bridgerton, kept getting the storylines/characters confused.

Quotes

"I have come to London to help my family, not to martyr myself." (53)

...he seemed to like her more for her flaws than for any virtues she might possess. (64)

The entire aim of his adult life had been getting what he wanted, exactly the way he wanted it....He was still trying to turn the situation to his benefit, when what he ought to do was first become the kind of man who deserved her. (240) ( )

Most excellent. ( )

Audiobook, listened to this eight hour book in one day.

I'm not sure I like audiobooks, or maybe I just shouldn't binge a whole one in one day?

This was on a list of books Emily Henry did for Elle magazine under "...has a sex scene that will make you blush:" I would argue that most of the book could make you blush, not just one scene. I've read spicier romances, but it is up there on the list. However, it is a pretty typical historic romance. (S) ( )