A daughter of a vicar, Miss Phoebe Millbury was sent to London in order to win the family legacy – a fortune left to any grandchild or great-grandchild of one Sir Hamish Pickering able to marry a Duke. Because she wasn’t the type of woman to catch the attention of a Duke, Phoebe didn’t hold out hope of wining and planned to enjoy herself. 

During a dance, Lord Raphael Marbrook couldn’t get the idea that someone was watching him. Glancing about he spotted a beautiful woman … ogling his behind? When caught, the ensuring actions both intrigued and charmed him, and he knew she was the one. Now he only had to convince his brother that he has changed his womanizing ways and was ready to settle down. 

Despite the urge to propose then and there, Rafe decided to give Phoebe the courtship she deserved. Only he miscalculated. Due to a misunderstanding, Phoebe found herself well on the way to winning the family legacy. But winning meant giving up the man she loved. As Rafe and Phoebe fought a losing battle with their attractions, they decide to keep there distance. Only circumstances worked against them, forcing them into closer contact with each other. They must decide if their love was worth tearing apart their families or if they can find a way to overcome the obstacles in there way. 

Rafe is a delicious character, both from his actions and the way Phoebe perceives him. Celeste Bradley combines great characterization and world-building to create a wonderful story. The tension and sexual need between these two ignited each time they found themselves in the same room. The ending really came together well and I loved it. Phoebe is a very whimsical and charming character. If you want a beautiful story and wonderful characters, you will want to make sure to pick up this first book in the new trilogy.

April 3, 2008