The Marciano Love-Child
2 Stars

Upon learning of her pregnancy, hotel magnate Alessandro Marciano accused Scarlett Fitzpatrick of being a cheating gold-digger and threw her out in the street. Now, 4 years later, Alessandro hires Scarlett design firm to refurbish his newest hotel and wants to pick up where they left off. But Scarlett is wary, especially about Alessandro's intentions once he realizes that her son is his.

The hero in this book is absolutely vile. His actions from beginning to end are completely inexcusable and there is nothing redeemable about him whatsoever. He threatens to ruin her business and take custody of their child away from her if she doesn't sleep with and then marry him. This goes far beyond sexual harassment and extortion.

Moreover, the heroine has no backbone. She ostensibly hates him and demands that he atone for his behavior, but never follows through and consistently succumbs to his sexual advances. The fact that she not only forgives him but actively encourages him to be a part of her son's life is very problematic and is reminiscent of abused women who allow their abusers back into their lives.

So, why the 2 star rating? Well, I actually enjoyed Milburne's writing style and the topic of cystic fibrosis is well researched and adds a compelling and emotional nuance to the story.

It would have been better as women's fiction rather than romance.


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