Rating: 4 out of 5.

This is a cute, fun historical fiction romance set in 1815 England. The Earl of Marsdan (Mars) has lived a life of irresponsibility, doing things his own way without a care as to what others think of him. That is, until his last mistress drops off a baby girl –his baby girl – and leaves. Immediately smitten with the child and determined to protect her at all costs, he seeks help from the town matrons.

Clarissa is an orphan and has been pitied by the village her whole life. She’s determined not to be beholden to anyone anymore, but thus far her efforts to be independent have failed. So when the arrogant, intolerable Earl of Marsdan offers her a job as a nurse to his infant daughter, she reluctantly agrees. But when a crisis occurs she suddenly finds herself married to the Earl, and stepmother to his daughter. But before Clarissa says “I do”, she has conditions, and one of them includes no intimacy. But the couple soon discovers that is easier said than done, and despite neither of them having any experience in loving someone, or being loved, true feelings begin to stir.

I really enjoyed this book. It’s book three in a series, but you can read it as a stand alone. I haven’t read the first two books but didn’t feel like I missed out on anything because of it. There was enough information in the book to let me know what happened to put things in context. I liked Clarissa and Mars. The characters were well developed and had great chemistry. They grew during the story and their relationship slowly developed into a deep connection. The supporting characters added depth to the story that even I could appreciate despite not reading the other books. There is a little spice in this book, and a lot of warm fuzzy feelings. I highly recommend you read it.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley and Avon and Harper Voyager. All opinions are my own.