This was quite a bit like book 4, but that's been my favorite of the series up to this point, so I didn't mind. Beauty and the Beast, and heroine pursues hero tropes. Very character driven, with lots of sweet moments. And the characters' struggles were written with empathy.

CW for multiple heavy mental health topics. Child abuse, depression, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, suicide attempt, deaths by suicide in the past but recalled in detail. ( )

“‘I’ll ruin everything. I’ll do it on purpose.’

As warnings went, it was stark and to the point, and yet he should not have been surprised when she clutched at his lapels and stood on her toes, pressing her mouth to his…”

Good grief this was a good book! It’s not as light as most historical romances I’ve read lately; the hero had some serious problems, which the author didn’t skirt around. But it was such a wonderful story of life-long obsession and loyalty, self-sacrifice, and unconditional love. Crecy is a generally happy girl with a chipper personality who is nevertheless drawn to the dark and morbid. In other words, a heroine after my own heart :). I loved how kind and patient she was with Gabriel. And the ending just slayed me; it was so cute. I know it’s only January, but I wouldn’t be surprised if this turns out to be one of the best romances I read all year. Or maybe ever. Crecy and Gabriel forever! ( )