4amreader - reviewed on 9/18/2013 + 157 more book reviews

Helpful Score: 2

I like Louise Allen. She's long been one of my go-to Regency authors for her unique settings and fresh plots. That said, this series wasn't one of my favorites of hers.

Though all 3 books kept my interest, only the first one was compelling. Here's my take:

Practical Widow to Passionate Mistress - Easily my favorite & a strong 4 rating. This story is worth a second read. Both characters had great histories and interaction with each other. I was really rooting for them as a team and a couple. Also great start to the thread that ties the books together (rotten father and sisters searching for each other after escaping his tyranny).

Vicar's Daughter to Viscount's Lady - A basic 3 star, solid read. What kept this one from being better is the hero. I cannot put my finger on it, but while he kept himself remote, emotionally, from the heroine, I also sensed he remained remote from me, the reader. Even after 200 pages, I didn't feel like I knew him, or therefore really cared about him. Good continuation of sister thread.

Innocent Courtesan to Adventurer's Bride (THIS BOOK) - The best part of this 3.5 star read is the unique heroine (living as an accountant in the brothel her aunt owns) and the hero (who's been all over, and dresses a bit like a sheik at times) and the hero's friend cum bodyguard who has a great sense of humor (when will Gregor get his book?). Even with such a great setup, the story didn't seem to move as swiftly as it could, hampered by a bit of repetitive introspection. Wish the trilogy plot could have been given a few more pages as well. That seemed tacked on at the end, and rushed.

All in all, a good offering promising several hours enjoyment, just not one of my favorite, can't-put-it-down series.

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