It isn't often that a historical romance can provide as many interesting twists and turns as I read in the Reluctant Countess by Wendy Vella and I am pleased to be able to share an entire excerpt from the book with you, along with my review!
From the Publisher:
From the Publisher:
Regal, poised, and elegant, Sophie, Countess of Monmouth, is everything that a highborn lady should be. But Sophie is hiding a past that is far from royal. When Patrick, Earl of Coulter, realizes that her story doesn’t add up, he resolves to find out the truth of what Sophie and her sister-in-law are concealing. Although Sophie has every reason to avoid him, the handsome and charismatic Patrick awakens something wicked deep within her soul . . . a powerful need that Sophie must stifle in order to protect her place in society.
Despite Sophie’s humble background, the raven-haired beauty has won Patrick’s heart. But what Sophie needs now is an ally. Viscount Myles Dumbly, the disgruntled former heir of Monmouth, is determined to expose Sophie as a fraud to recapture his lost inheritance. Soon Patrick is drawn into a fight for both their lives. Somehow he must find a way not only to rescue Sophie from poverty once and for all, but to keep her in his arms forever.
Despite Sophie’s humble background, the raven-haired beauty has won Patrick’s heart. But what Sophie needs now is an ally. Viscount Myles Dumbly, the disgruntled former heir of Monmouth, is determined to expose Sophie as a fraud to recapture his lost inheritance. Soon Patrick is drawn into a fight for both their lives. Somehow he must find a way not only to rescue Sophie from poverty once and for all, but to keep her in his arms forever.
My Review: This was a really fun read - I loved the Sophie character - she was different from a typical 'Countess' that you would normally find in the book and it made me want to keep reading! It's a historical setting with some very modern twists - and a very contemporary sexiness. The characters have depth and interests beyond those you'd expect in a historical, but still keeps the Cinderella feeling - a rags to riches story with a twist!
If you are looking for a fun, sexy historical read for your TBR pile, I suggest you check out the Excerpt below and then pick up this really fun read!
Goodreads is giving her 4 & 5 Star reviews & she’s received quotes from these famous authors:
'Secrets, lies, and raging desires - the journey to love has never been more thrilling!' ~ Award winning author Brownwen Evans
"Vella's characters were vivid and endearing and I hated for the book to end!"~Bestselling author Karen Hawkins, How to Capture a Countess
"A lively regency tale many readers will enjoy." ~ Bestselling author Anne Gracie
Disclaimer: I received an ARC copy of this book through Netgalley. All opinions are my own. Excerpt furnished by the Publisher.
