Eamon Evernight has always lived in his older brother’s shadow. While his brother is fair of hair and lithe in body, Eamon sparks fear with his fiery locks and massive frame-and rumors of a mysterious power. But when his brother has the good fortune to be betrothed to a beautiful stranger, it’s Eamon’s help-and quick wit and romantic heart–that he needs. Eamon agrees to write the noble lady…a generous offer that will forever leave him a changed man.

Lady Luella Jane Moran has no interest in an arranged marriage and tries valiantly to dissuade her betrothed from afar. Though her own letters plainly state her case, the words her husband-to-be writes her leave her aching for his touch. Will Lu give in to the desire the missives have kindled within her? Or will desire turn cold when she discovers their true author?

Entwined is book 3.5 in Kristen Callihan’s “Darkest London” series.  I’ve not read any of the other books so I’m not sure how it fits in but as far as I can tell this novella can stand on its own.  There was nothing that I was confused about or felt was missing from the story, except maybe info on what happens to Eamon’s brother.  (Of course Eamon and Lu end up together so there has to be something more for Aiden.)

There is a slight supernatural element to Entwined, although based on the descriptions of the rest of the series this plays a much bigger part in those stories.  For the most part, this is a straightforward story of two people who fall in love based on a deception and the question is whether they can get past it.  I loved the early parts where the two exchange letters and reveal bits and pieces about themselves.  It’s a fun tactic to lead them to the path of romance … and potential disaster.

There were a couple of parts where I wanted to smack them both and tell them to just talk to one another but because of the secrets they carry it makes sense to act the way they do.  We know what’s going on but there is so much being kept quiet that it leads to awkwardness.  Luckily, being a short story (just under 100 pages), this doesn’t last long.

Entwined is perfect for those looking for an entertaining combination of historical, gothic, maybe even paranormal or just that slight touch of steampunk, but who really just want a love story that will give them a happy ever after at the end.