But here's one I did finish

Her Scandalous Marriage by Leslie LaFoy

I have long been a fan of Leslie LaFoy. I’ve been reading and loving her books since her second release. She is one of those authors who writes very well in a number of different settings whether they be Western, Colonial, Historical or even Time Travel. Of all the books of hers I’ve read, only one didn’t impress me. So with that kind of track record, I was looking forward to Her Scandalous Marriage. And I’m happy to report that once again she does not disappoint!! This book is charming – absolutely and utterly charming!! I think I either smiled or chuckled from something on every page.
For those who love Guardian/Ward stories – heck even for those who don’t – this is a don’t miss book!!
Drayton MacKenzie is leading a very content life when he unexpectedly inherits a dukedom he doesn’t really want. Even worse – this inheritance comes with baggage. He must find and raise to be ladies, the three illegitimate daughters of the late Duke. He first gathers Catherine, the eldest daughter. She is less than thrilled at her sudden change in fortune. She is quite content owning her own clothing boutique and only with the greatest reluctance goes along with Drayton’s plans. When we first meet Drayton, I’m thinking “uh oh, not gonna like this guy. What a stuffed shirt”. But it wasn’t long before we see that he is just as new and insecure in his role of a duke as Catherine is in hers. They gather her other two younger sisters as well as two of Draytons friends and head off to the country for their “make-overs”
Did I say this book is delightful yet? Well it is! Drayton and Catherine are wonderfully full, richly drawn and very likeable characters. As I read along, I could really believe in the growing love and friendship for each other. Even the secondary characters come alive, from the rebellious Simone – second daughter of a prostitute and Fionna, a fragile young girl to Southland, who comes along for the ride because every duke needs a toady and he’s decided he’s it and Amberly, the rather likeable prig who decides to give the hero lessons on how to be a proper duke. The fact that I didn’t have to go and check the secondary characters names; that I remembered them, tells how alive they become. And for those who dislike the virgin heroine (?). Not to worry. She isn’t. Although I was hoping for good things with this book, it surpassed even what I was hoping for. The author has taken the tried and true and made it something special.
Did I say this book is delightful? Well – it is.

Grade: 5 out of 5

***** add on I didn't want to do a whole post on*****

It seems I'm not the only one who doesn't like the Avonized Lorraine Heath. Check out the link for the latest favourites by favourite authors at AAR. Very interesting how few of those listed are recent books. Think she'll ever listen to the clamour and go back to where she belongs - the Western?