The Earl of Deben has decided that it is time to find himself a wife.  Unfortunately, at the first party he attends, he’s reminded of exactly how calculating women can be.  Trapped in a compromising position by a debutante, it looks like he’ll create more for the gossips to talk about … until he gets help from an unlikely source.  When Henrietta Gibson comes to the aid of Lord Deben, she has no idea that her life will never be the same.  But can she resist the appeal of the devilishly handsome rake, knowing that she’ll never see him again once he’s finished whatever game he is playing?

I love a good rake.  He’s charming, usually handsome, but always sexy, and most definitely in need of the love of a good woman.  Lord Deben is no different.  His past is very complicated – he’s his father’s only legitimate child , his parent’s marriage was unhappy due to his mother’s infidelity, and the way he was treated as heir left no chance of a good relationship with his siblings – which has left him bitter and with an extremely poor view of women and marriage.  That is until he meets Henrietta.  But he has no experience in how to handle someone like her.

Henrietta had an unconventional upbringing herself, except she at least felt the love of her father and siblings.  Her scholarly father may not have a clue about how to make sure she knows how to move about society but that is her greatest appeal to someone like Lord Deben.  Henrietta sees so much more in him that even he gives himself credit for, plus the loneliness and desire to be loved that is buried deeply under the surface.

I usually don’t like a story that is based on miscommunication and games, but Burrows weaves such an enthralling tale that I couldn’t help but be drawn to these two.  Lord Deben is such a complicated and confused soul.  It was extremely addicting to watch the two of them dance around one another and their feelings.

Never Trust A Rake is an enthralling treat for readers of gold old-fashioned historical romances of redemption through love.