Review: An enjoyable update to a classic storyline
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 07 17, 2013
I can't say when the concept of a man looking for a bride, or a pseudo-bride, in order to secure his inheritance originated, but it's been revived, revamped, and updated because it's such a crowd-pleaser. My guess is it predates the 1916 play (which spawned the 1925 Buster Keaton silent film, Seven Chances) and all those that followed.In Wanted: Wife, author Lacey Wolfe is serving up her own delightful course, the recipe tweaked and updated for the modern palate. Darcy is more than a prop or a gag, for starters. She's strong, independent, and the arrangement - odd as it seems, even to her - is a pragmatic one. She needs the cash.Steven is a decent guy, handsome and successful, though more focused on learning the family business and taking over for his aging grandfather than actively pursuing a social life. His focus on business is what raises the old man's red flag. Whether the old gent has the energy or the sound mind to stay at the helm, he decides to hang in there until he's sure his grandson is taken care of on the personal front. Only then will he hand over the reins. What follows is a charming story that explores both characters, their motivations and evolving emotions.The question that's always lurking is this; what happens if their charade is exposed? Will everything evaporate or is there something substantial behind the smoke and mirrors?*I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.