Library Journal

Arriving in rural Hartley just in time to rescue midwife Julia Bancroft from a band of kidnap-minded thugs, Maj. Alex Randall quickly realizes that the only way he can keep Julia safe is by marrying her. Fortunately, that's exactly what he's wanted to do since he met her, and Julia, although wary after a brutal first marriage, reluctantly agrees. Alex's gentle patience soon wins Julia's trust, but as Julia's heritage comes to light, Alex is the one who wonders if their marriage will last. VERDICT Delightful, well-conceived secondary characters, including a particularly difficult earl and a take-charge, no-nonsense duchess, add humor and depth to a fascinating story that is more complex than most. Cleverly plotted, stirring, and flawlessly written. Putney (Loving a Lost Lord) lives in Baltimore.