The Gentleman's Deception by Karen Tuft

Lavinia needs to escape her past. Lucas prefers to face his past with a fiancee by his side. A chance meeting provides each with salvation in the form of each other - but how can a relationship built on lies and deception turn into something real?

Well, with great ease, apparently. With many shenanigans and drama along the way, this is a fun fake relationship romance. I enjoyed how they got to know each other and helped each other out. I also appreciate the family reconciliation and difficult conversations that resulted. A touching and genuine romance.

I received an advanced reading copy of this book via NetGalley but all opinions are my own

Rogue Most Wanted by Janna McGregor

It's been a while since I've reviewed - partly due to reading less (thanks, 9-5!) and partly due to less interest in finishing and reviewing some of those books on my shelf.

This review is one that has taken a while to get to as I simply... lost interest as it neared the end. It wasn't a bad book - there was nothing awful about it, but while it was a decent read, I feel a bit misled by the title and blurb. Will is nowhere near a rogue, and this is less a marriage of convenience and more two people trying to convince themselves out of said marriage, when both desperately want it. I also wasn't a fan of the Midnight Crier - while an interesting device, some of the headlines indicate that they have spies within the loyal Caversham household and behind closed doors.

However, Thea was a delightful and interesting heroine, and Will an honourable gentleman (once he gets over his 'woe is me'). They had great chemistry and the entire family sound awesome. I just feel like their story could've been marketed a little better and the last part could've been edited to keep the momentum going.

I received an advanced reading copy of this book via NetGalley but all opinions are my own