⭐⭐⭐⭐ Was I hooked by that book? Yes. An elaborate mystery wrapped in a swoony romance.

As a viscount’s heir, Rafe Wolfford is obligated to take a wife someday. But she must be the right sort of wife, not too independent, and not inclined to delve into his escapades as a spy. The forthright, perceptive Lady Verity is altogether the wrong choice. But Rafe’s courtship is merely a ruse to discover whether Verity or anyone else associated with Elegant Occasions is leaking crucial information to the French. That mission is all that matters, until fate, and desire, intervene. After enduring one disastrous engagement, Verity won’t easily open her heart again, preferring to devote herself to Elegant Occasions. Rafe is charming, handsome, and kisses like the very devil, but she knows he’s harboring secrets. Still, when her ex-fiancé tries to ruin her reputation, Rafe offers his hand. For the sake of her family and business, Verity has little choice but to accept. Yet turning this arrangement into a true marriage will require daring and trust, which neither will embrace easily, making surrender all the sweeter.

MY THOUGHTS

Rafe and Verity were drawn to each other right from the start and things between them escalated pretty quickly. That part was exciting and they were usually a hair’s breadth away from discovery. I loved when Rafe turned up all possessive, surprising himself with his strong feelings.

Verity was too smart and observant for Rafe’s own good. Their sharp and witty banter showed that they were an excellent match in all ways. Rafe’s spying took some convoluted turns, and with his past thrown in, there were quite a lot to unpack. The author did an excellent job of showing us Verity’s intelligence instead of just saying it over and over.

I can highly recommend this entire series if you like steamy historical romance with some mystery and suspense. This book stands well on its own, but I think you’ll get more value if you read the series in order.

Thank you to Netgalley for providing me with a copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Were you hooked by that book? Let me know in the comments below.

Genre: Historical Romance
Published: January 23, 2024
Sensuality Rating: Warm
Series: Designing Debutantes
Other books in the series: A Duke for Diana, What Happens in the Ballroom