Review: Scars, inside and out.
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 02 1, 2014
Christian Trent, Earl of Markham is scarred physically and emotionally.  He was horribly burned fighting the war in France, and returns to England a very changed man. He is in unbearable pain and suffers the piteous and horrified looks of people he thought were his friends.  He survives by burying  himself in alcohol and women he can pay to ignore his scars.  One night in his usual drunken state he is accused of a terrible crime he has no memory of committing. An argument with his accusers renders him unconscious from a blow to the head. He awakens on a ship heading to Canada, he has no money, and a ruined reputation.  He arrives in Canada penniless, and is taken in by a family and befriended. Matthew Pearson, his benefactor, helps him prove his identity, and convinces the bank to release his funds. They then start a successful business together.Mrs. Sarah Parker has applied for the duty of governess taking  care of Lord Markham's ward. Lilly, his ward, is the daughter of Matthew and Pamela Pearson, who  recently died in a blizzard. Mrs. Parker is a woman hiding her own scars and crimes. She is desperately hoping to join the  Earl on his return trip to England, putting even more distance between her and her accusers.  Christian is immediately attracted to her, and Sarah feels safe for the first time in a long time.  Both have fears and secrets. Sarah has never known a kind or loving touch. Christian cannot believe that Sarah is not sickened by his horrible scars.This is a compelling  story of two damaged and heartbroken people, finding love, trust and loyalty.  Lilly is a charming twelve year old, trying to get past the loss of her parents, moving to a new country, and trusting the people around her.  There are many twists and turns to this story, but the burgeoning love between Christian and Sarah, and the loyalty of Christians true friends makes it a book hard to put down.I received this novel from the publisher and NetGalley for an honest review.Pat Fordyce