Review: Secrets and Lies....
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 01 19, 2013
This novel is an enjoyable Regency period, rags to riches story with momentsthat will melt your heart, make you laugh out loud, and spike your pulsewith fear. We first meet Patrick Coulter (Earl of Coulter) and StephenSumner (Lord Sumner) who have been best friends from childhood. They arecommenting on Sophie's, the Countess of Monmouth, recent arrival in London's society events. She is the widow of the Earl of Monmouth who passed away some two years ago. She has a young boy Timmy, who is very much a part of her life. She is accompanied around town by her sister-in-law Letty, who is well known in society.There is an immediate spark between Patrick and Sophie, neither one understands it, nor welcomes it. Patrick was with the Earl a few days before his death, and did not see, or hear any evidence of Sophie. "Something about the Countess does not seem right, and if she's a charlatan I will expose her as one." That is Patrick's goal.Patrick encounters Sophie at all the wrong moments for her peace of mind.Once she was in a secluded area of the park and entertaining Timmy bywalking on her hands. Patrick comes upon the scene and sees her legs in theair, knickers exposed, skirts over her head. A vision he knows will haunthim on many a sleepless night.They have a difficult journey to their happily ever after, dangers andobstacles seem to be around every corner. Once Patrick discovers Sophie's secretive past, and the reason for it, he strives to help her conceal it , and keep her safe and in his arms.This is a wonderful story of England society, heartwarming friendships, and a beautiful love story with plenty of HEAT! I highly recommend this delightful novel.