Rakes and Roses
(Mayfield Family #3)
by
My Review: 9/10
Josi S. Kilpack
***Typically I copy and paste the book blurb here, but I felt it gave WAYYYY too much away - it's basically a synopsis of the book. So briefly, succinctly, this is another story in the series of Elliot's nieces and nephews. He has given each a particular inheritance if they marry well - a person he approves of. Harry is a gambler and a drunkard and finds himself at the end of his rope... and under a young widow's care in her home. She is independent, wealthy and mistrustful of men in general, yet determined to help him. It's a wonderful story of hard work and fresh starts.***
***Typically I copy and paste the book blurb here, but I felt it gave WAYYYY too much away - it's basically a synopsis of the book. So briefly, succinctly, this is another story in the series of Elliot's nieces and nephews. He has given each a particular inheritance if they marry well - a person he approves of. Harry is a gambler and a drunkard and finds himself at the end of his rope... and under a young widow's care in her home. She is independent, wealthy and mistrustful of men in general, yet determined to help him. It's a wonderful story of hard work and fresh starts.***
One of my favorite books to read is when there are characters who undergo personality transformation, whether it be through circumstances, natural growth, or the influence of another character. I love to see believable and inspiring change. This novel had that. Add a strong female lead and a sweet romance and I'm hooked.
I think it would have been an even stronger story over multiple books or a more drawn out time period, as overcoming addiction can often take much more time than is portrayed in the story. However, it was still within the realm of reason, since we meet Harry at rock bottom and there is within him a desire to change.
I absolutely adore this series. Keep it coming!
