Blurb:

A trapped viscount. A disgraced debutante. A scandal that could ruin them both.

Lady Kate Drake’s reputation is in tatters after she’s discovered alone on a balcony with a gentleman by one of society’s biggest gossips. Even worse, the gentleman in question flees, leaving her to face the scorn of the ton alone.

The last thing she expects is for her erstwhile suitor to seek her out the next day to propose marriage—or to learn that he’s none other than the elusive Viscount Blackwell, who rumors claim is responsible for his late wife’s death.

Lady Kate is backed into a corner. She must either risk a lifetime of being shunned or put her safety—and her heart—on the line by taking a chance on a notorious stranger.

https://books2read.com/the-viscounts-unwanted-bride

*****

Review:

Regardless of what her family says, Kate has put pressure on herself to find a husband so she’s no longer a financial burden to her brother. And I like her for it – for her level-headedness, responsibility, and the care she has for her family. Unfortunately her first outing leads to a sticky situation.

Theo is carrying a lot on his shoulders and struggling with his grief & guilt & feelings of responsibility after his wife’s death. It’s lead him to lead a quiet life, out of the public eye, alone mostly except for his twin. Which I think is my favorite thing about Theo, how deeply he loves. His family, his brother, his wife … and he’d do just about anything for them.

While there’s some angst as Theo works to let go of the past and the fear that he’s been left with, it isn’t as angsty as it could have been. No outside interference from other parties, just them dealing with his loss & regret, and embracing a second chance at love.

The Viscount’s Unwanted Bride is a fast read about enjoyable characters with believable hangups & issues. While it may have been predictable, especially their third act issues, I enjoyed the simplicity of the story and the slow burn as they got to know each other better and fell in love.

(Part of a series but can be read as a stand alone.)