This book, while part of a series, can be read as a standalone. I have read two others in this series.
Oliver Sterling, eleventh Duke of Kendal, had lived in seclusion since the death of his father when he was a young boy. His servants and the local villagers believe Oliver is a monster and no one save his guardian, Mr Winter, will look at him. when he sees a painting of a beautiful young woman, he instructs Mr Winter to track her down and arrange their marriage.
Rebecca Kane is horrified when her father agrees to give her away in exchange for the settlement of his gambling debts. Taken away from her family and friends, she does not know what to expect of her new husband. Her only impression of her new husband is a man wrapped in shadows still the two manage to connect, and a relationship begins to develop. But can Rebecca truly love someone she has never fully seen?
When Oliver is finally revealed, will Rebecca find him a monster or has Oliver been made into a beast by cruel rumour. There are many mysteries in the crumbling manor Rebecca now calls home, some quite deadly.
I am becoming a massive fan of Jane Goodger. She writes atypical heroes and heroines who do not fit into the world around them and yet they find the perfect partner. This book was a thrilling rollercoaster read, but the romance is at the heart of this book, and it is a beautiful romance. I am a huge fan of the beauty, and the beast trope and this version definitely has a unique twist to it.
I received an arc of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
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