- Print Length: 416 pages
- Publisher: Dell (July 1, 2014)
- Sold by: Random House LLC
- ASIN: B00HP3POEC
My Rating: 4.75 of 5.0
Book Description
Publication Date: July 1, 2014
In this poignant novel of longing and salvation, a hopeful widow and a resilient war hero discover the promise of love’s magic and new beginnings.
After surviving the Napoleonic Wars, Sir Benedict Harper is struggling to move on, his body and spirit in need of a healing touch. Never does Ben imagine that hope will come in the form of a beautiful woman who has seen her own share of suffering. After the lingering death of her husband, Samantha McKay is at the mercy of her oppressive in-laws—until she plots an escape to distant Wales to claim a house she has inherited. Being a gentleman, Ben insists that he escort her on the fateful journey.
Ben wants Samantha as much as she wants him, but he is cautious. What can a wounded soul offer any woman? Samantha is ready to go where fate takes her, to leave behind polite society and even propriety in her desire for this handsome, honorable soldier. But dare she offer her bruised heart as well as her body? The answers to both their questions may be found in an unlikely place: in each other’s arms.
Review:
Samantha is a young widow who has spent most of her marriage nursing her injured, unfaithful husband. She feels suffocated by her in-laws and their strict propriety. She longs for freedom, or even just a walk in the meadow to get fresh air.
Sir Benedict Harper was a career officer, a respected major in the Napoleonic Wars, until he almost lost his legs. The doctors said he would never walk again. Ben has struggled through rehabilitation with the help and encouragement of six other friends, all members of the Survivor’s Club.
Ben is out riding when he almost jumps on a young woman dressed in severe black with an ugly hound dog. He learns from his sister that the mourning lady is Samantha. Ben and Samantha begin a slow friendship which is encouraged by Ben’s sister but shocking to Samantha’s sister-in-law, Matilda. Matilda storms home and a few days later servants of the Earl, Samantha’s father-in-law, arrive to announce they will take Samantha back to live with the Earl in his strict household. Samantha is faced with returning to a dismal life, caged by her in-laws, or traveling alone to claim the small, perhaps dilapidated, cottage in Wales which she has inherited from her mother’s estranged aunt.
Ben insists on escorting Samantha on the trip to Wales and their friendship and companionship grows. They are reluctant to part ways when they arrive. But Samantha has inherited more than she expected and Ben needs to find a new meaning for his life since he can no longer be an officer.
Ms. Balogh has the wonderful ability to draw me into the lives of her characters and to weave a totally believable love story. These are wonderful, warm characters of strength and integrity. I loved the gentle growth of their attraction. I also enjoyed the independent philosophies that spurred them to seek more from life. The story is rich in detail and sweet, emotional moments of sorrow and joy. I found this story charming and delightful.
If you like historical romance and haven’t read Ms. Balogh you are missing a real treat. I recommend this story and highly recommend this author.
I received this title from the publisher through NetGalley.
