⭐⭐⭐⭐ Was I hooked by that book? Yes. Heath’s perpetual bachelor ways were brought low by the enchanting and sassy Giselle, who gave him a new perspective on family and love.

After more than a decade, the Earl of Heathbrook returns to London to reclaim guardianship of his younger brothers. However, his reputation as a rake has followed him from France, and his own father has blocked Heathbrook’s rightful custody in his will. But the clever rogue concocts the perfect plan to restore his reputation, and his inheritance… by finding a temporary fiancée. Giselle Bernard is not looking to wed an earl with a wild past. All she seeks is a nobleman, who can legally secure her new life in England and head off a mysterious stranger’s threats. Posing as Heathbrook’s bride-to-be would surely benefit them both. But as their engagement charade unravels, neither expect it to blossom into a promise of love…

MY THOUGHTS

I liked Heath’s sense of humor and his upbeat way of approaching things. It seemed a bit incongruous for someone who was imprisoned for quite a long time, and it made him very likeable. Giselle matched his sharp wit and they shared a strong attraction, but she was trying so hard to protect her heart that she presented opposing personalities to Heath. She was blowing very hot and cold. In one breath, she admonished him to keep things between them strictly professional, but then she would get upset when he actually treated her that way. Or she seemed to forget that she was using him just as much as he was using her. That part about her was a bit irritating, but understandable. Heath’s back-and-forth feelings for Giselle felt more genuine.

This flip-flop journey from faux to real betrothal was filled with fun banter and sizzling chemistry. The plot surrounding the fake papers and Heath’s brothers were the impetus for bringing them together but played more of a background role to their love story. All the other characters were unique, and each one made the story richer in different ways.

I can recommend this if you like a fake engagement historical romance. Each book in the series stands well on its own.

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: April 28, 2026
Sensuality Rating: Warm
Series: Book 2 of Lords of Hazard