Review
Two very different people meet under the strangest circumstances…
Isabel Netherton was trying to escape possible death. She didn’t plan for her getaway on the back of a trusted horse, and that’s the main reason she ends up with a concussion in a snow covered garden. Now if she can only convince her rescuer to help her, even though help is probably non-existent. This is a woman who’s been through hell. Isabel is the tortured heroine, and I was moved by her struggles and trials. She’s not perfect by any means, but she seeks to do the honorable thing in nearly every situation. I thought it would be difficult for Bernard to display a romance between Isabel and her hero due to Isabel’s personal issues, but the was no rapid succession and the romance blossoms with time.
Darius Thorne is no noblemen. He’s not even considered a gentleman, but his years of scholarly pursuit have given him a keen mind. As a member of the Jaded he’s known for solving puzzles. His latest puzzle is the young woman who landed in his garden. He recognizes abuse when he sees it and can’t help but seek to find a solution for this woman whose beauty captivates as much as her determination for survival. I love Darius! He’s the hero that shouldn’t have a chance at winning, yet his mind makes everything possible. He’s the nerd who is going to get the girl, no matter the cost.
What makes the story good is that the solution isn’t simple. Bernard led me on a merry chase to the HEA, and I kept wondering if Darius and Isabel could find happiness without running away to another continent. The villains are wicked to the core, and extremely depraved; which suited me just fine. The romantic moments were steamy, just like they were supposed to be. The secondary characters were phenomenal, with the additional members of the Jaded assisting where they could. The subplot of the Jaded’s mysterious purser is still a part of the story, though a minor role compared to Darius’ rescue of Isabel.
My favorite scene: When Darius fails to hold his composure.
Darius pulled her into his arms and affirmed that whatever had begun impulsively in the library was no illusion. His desire for her flared so quickly it was painful and made his heart twist into a knot of molten fire in his chest. He had never kissed a woman before, never envisioned that such a simple act could hold such power. But there was more to it than flesh pressing flesh, and he was humbled at his own ignorance. Experienced or not, his body didn’t seem to be paying attention to anything his mid was advising of caution and restraint.
Which shook him to his core.
A lifetime of discipline, lost in the span of seconds. Lost to Helen of Troy.
I really loved this hero. He’s so intelligent and observant. His internal thoughts were enjoyable and heartfelt. So far this is my favorite book of the series, and of course there’s one more story coming. My only caveat is the story does drag in pacing in a few spots. But if you’re looking for difficult tropes and an intelligent virgin this is worth a read.
Reviewed by Landra