A fantastic regency era story. The added navy influence adds a lot more drama, action and reasoning to the story. Well written, with excellent character development. In the beginning you really feel the neglect that Sarah feels, but at the same time you do empathize with James. It’s really about them rekindling their love that has been lost after 5 years at sea. ( )

Wow! What a fantastic book! The setting of England in 1805 is perfect! The characters are wonderful! Sarah is my favorite. She proves herself to be strong and courageous. She endures loneliness and separation from her husband, but she perseveres and never gives up. Their love story is romantic and encouraging. James says to Sarah, " You have rescued me in more ways than I can number. You never gave up on me." A definite must read!
I was provided an ARC copy from Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own! ( )

“I have found one need not be perfect in marriage; one need only have the courage to try.”

Fantastic debut novel by Amanda Taylor! I enjoy a story that elicits a lot of different emotions and this story certainly did. It’s a second chance romance with highs, lows, and a touch of intrigue. It also alludes to one of my favorite classics, The Scarlet Pimpernel.

James, oh James! If there is one hero that needs a good shaking, it’s Lord James Whitfield. When we first meet him, he is happily anticipating his wedding with starry eyes and great expectations. Five years later, he returns home from the navy a jaded, brooding, frankly rude man. However, the reasons for his change in personality have to do with his recent losses. He had to give up his important position in the navy after the death of his elder brother, and witnessed his best friend brutally beaten and carted off by the French, presumably dead. Suffering from PTSD and survivor’s guilt, he shuts himself off from everyone, but most especially his wife.

Lady Sarah Whitfield is my favorite character! Enduring years of loneliness, she’s excited for her husband’s return, only to find a cold, distant man so unlike the person she married. After being ignored and mistreated, she decides to leave for London. Realizing his mistakes and hoping to salvage his marriage, James follows her. Just when things look promising, he receives word his friend may still be alive. Will he risk his second chance at love for the man who was like a brother to him?

I have to admit the first half of the book I was so upset with James. Though I could understand why he felt the way he did, I had a hard time with the way he acted towards Sarah. Sarah was so incredibly patient and forgiving. I liked the way she stood up for herself and left for London when she’d had enough of his behavior. I enjoyed seeing James try to win her back and learn to let her help share his burdens. Loved the secret flower garden and stolen kisses in the library. I enjoyed how all they go through helps James gain a new appreciation for his lovely wife.

I enjoyed side characters Lord and Lady Ramsey! I would love to read more about his adventures as a sort of Scarlet Pimpernel. The second half of the book was brimming with suspenseful action as Lord Ramsey, his wife, and a few of his friends, accompany Sarah to France to find James and help rescue his friend.

Definitely recommend to Regency romance fans! Looking forward to reading more by this author. I received an advanced complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own and voluntarily provided. ( )