The Earl and His Lady by Sally Britton

Synopsis:

Lady Virginia Macon, the recently widowed Baroness of Heatherton, has an impossible decision to make. Her late husband’s unscrupulous brother wants to take her sons away from her, and the British courts are on his side, unless she marries a man willing to be the boys’ guardian. Locking her heart away and devoting herself to her children is the only way Virginia can countenance such a decision.

Wearied by the world, Lucas Calvert, Earl of Annesbury, is tired of being alone. His wife’s passing, years ago, has left his outlook gray and empty. His only recourse has been to make life better for those around him, using his considerable wealth and influence. When he learns of Virginia’s plight, he knows he can save her and her sons.

Time spent in each other’s company, sharing the joys and pains of a long English summer, makes them question this marriage of convenience. Neither of them expect their hearts to be touched, for how could they hope to find love a second time?

My Review: 5 Stars

Lady Virginia Macon is recently widowed and had to flee the safety of her own home in order to keep her sons, Phillip and Edward, safe from their evil uncle. Virginia finds herself in an impossible position. She either needs to find a male family member who will claim guardianship over her sons but still let her raise them or she has to marry again... preferably a peer. Neither option appeals to her but she'll do whatever she can to keep her sons safe. 

Lord Lucas Calvert lost his wife 6 years ago. He has spent the years since her passing helping others whenever he can. But there's something missing in his life. He's tired of being alone and not feeling complete. When he hears of Virginia's plight, he sets out to make sure they are all cared for and protected. 

Neither Virginia nor Lucas would have ever guessed that their marriage of convenience would ever turn into something more. As they take the time to get to know each other, they are plagued with what is proper since Virginia is still in her mourning period. Both try to keep their feelings hidden until after it is over. 

But when Virginia puts herself in danger to save her sons, their feelings can no longer be hidden. Both she and Lucas will have to decide if they should go with what society deems appropriate or if they should follow their hearts and see if another HEA is in store for them. 

I have been in the mood for something different lately and had the hardest time figuring out what I was in the mood for. I hardly ever read regency or historical novels but thought I'd give a marriage of convenience book a try. And can I just tell you, The Earl and His Lady was a perfect choice for my mood! Once I started this book, I could not put it down. I was quickly swept away to the English countryside and I did not want to leave! 

I thoroughly enjoyed watching the relationship between Virginia and Lucas develop from acquaintances, to friends, to something more. They were just what the other needed. I also enjoyed watching the relationship between Lucas, Phillip and Edward develop. A lot of the time when you read books with single parents, the children tend to be put on the back burner. But that was not the case here. Lucas took the time to not only get to know the boys, but to show them that he genuinely cared for them and only wanted the best for them and their mother. I absolutely adored this book! It was perfect!

This is my very first book by Sally Britton and I can already tell you, it won't be my last. I have seen several friends read and love her books. I can't wait to add more to my TBR list! 

And of course we can't forget my casting. I love these two! What do you think?