Thursday, September 17, 2015

A Noble Masquerade (Hawthorne House) by Kristi Ann Hunter

Book Description:  Sparkling Regency Romance from a Captivating New Voice
Lady Miranda Hawthorne acts every inch the lady, but inside she longs to be bold and carefree. Entering her fourth Season and approaching spinsterhood in the eyes of society, she pours her innermost feelings out not in a diary but in letters to her brother's old school friend, a duke--with no intention of ever sending these private thoughts to a man she's heard stories about but never met. Meanwhile, she also finds herself intrigued by Marlow, her brother's new valet, and although she may wish to break free of the strictures that bind her, falling in love with a servant is more of a rebellion than she planned. 

When Marlow accidentally discovers and mails one of the letters to her unwitting confidant, Miranda is beyond mortified. And even more shocked when the duke returns her note with one of his own that initiates a courtship-by-mail. Insecurity about her lack of suitors shifts into confusion at her growing feelings for two men--one she's never met but whose words deeply resonate with her heart, and one she has come to depend on but whose behavior is more and more suspicious. When it becomes apparent state secrets are at risk and Marlow is right in the thick of the conflict, one thing is certain: Miranda's heart is far from all that's at risk for the Hawthornes and those they love.

My Thoughts:   It's been awhile since I've read a Regency Romance (romance novels set during the period of the British Regency 1811–1820 or early 19th century).  
This is a fun read!  I loved Lady Miranda Hawthorne, maybe, because I married at "a later date" than most, so I related to her "problems."
Lady Hawthorne writes letters never intending to mail them to the duke.  But unbeknownst to her, her bother's new valet wanting to be helpful finds one of her letters and innocently mails it for her.  Just doing his job!  OOOPS!  
The duke receives the letter and actually begins a courtship with Lady Hawthorne.  It's a courtship my mail and Lady Hawthorne enjoys writing back and forth with the duke.  
However, she is mightily attracted to her brother's new valet Marlow. 
This is a fun, romantic read for those who enjoy Regency Romances.  
Two men and a decision for a lovely "sinister."  The men are different in temperaments and of course, Marlow, is a servant and it would be beneath her title to even like a servant.  But Marlow is so intriguing and there are secrets that seem to include Marlow.  
Then there's the duke.  He's witty and fun and it's so much fun to have a writing courtship but which man is for Lady Hawthorne?  
I thoroughly enjoyed the banter, courtship and secrets of this wonderfully written novel.

*This book was provided for review by Bethany House Publishers*

  • Series: Hawthorne House
  • Paperback: 368 pages
  • Publisher: Bethany House Publishers (September 8, 2015)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 0764214322
  • ISBN-13: 978-0764214325


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