Review

Bride for a Night is an exciting historical romance that takes place in both England and France. The story starts off with Talia Dobson’s father bribing his way into society by forcing Harry Richardson to marry her and in exchange, he will pay off Harry’s gambling debt.  Talia is mortified by how low her father will go to be accepted into London’s society. She is rather proud to be a merchant’s daughter and they are nowhere near poor (rather wealthy). Talia accepts her fate with much gloom. However, she is relieved when Harry stands her up at the altar. Though her humiliation is sure to spread around London, she won’t be forced into a ridiculous marriage…or so she thought.

Gabriel Richardson, Earl of Ashcombe, has always cleaned up his brother’s mess and his latest stunt is no different. Gabriel is livid when Harry succumbs to demands of Talia’s father. To avoid disgracing their family’s name any further, Gabriel agrees to marry Talia instead. After the marriage, Gabriel plans to send Talia to the countryside to live where he doesn’t have to be bothered with her. But after their passion-filled wedding night, Gabriel might have a bit of difficulty forgetting his own wife.

His plans go awry when Talia is kidnapped from his country home by French spies. He is furious that someone has dared take his wife and rushes off to rescue her from the Frenchmen. Once Gabriel locates Talia, he is greeted by a different woman, not the sweet and docile wife he married, but a strong woman who demands he becomes the husband she deserves.

Talia and Gabriel play a game of tug of war, both wanting to win the other’s heart. I had a problem buying into Gabriel’s immediate love for Talia once he sees her again. He is brutish and forceful at times and while those characteristics stayed consistent in him, he didn’t give enough reasons why he suddenly fell for his wife. I wanted more time with the main characters to grow and connect more but the mystery and action started to play more of a role in the story.

The thrilling part of the whole book is the espionage/Napoleon war aspect of the story. I loved the idea of having the French against the British. The villain of the story, Jacques, is a great ploy and though he is bad, I can’t help but wonder if the author will try to spin a story for him. I also want to know what will come of Harry. There is also a side romance between Talia’s friend and another aristocrat that should get a book as well.  This is my first book by the author and I must say that it is well written and I will definitely see what else the author has written.

Reviewed by Samantha