Aloha to Sabrina Jeffries and IF THE VISCOUNT FALLS - Book Review

From New York Times bestselling author Sabrina Jeffries, the deliciously sexy fourth book in the “Duke’s Men” Regency romance series—the first of which was called “a totally engaging, adventurous love story” (RT Book Reviews, Top Pick).

The heir presumptive to the Viscount Rathmoor, Dominick Manton once had his heart’s desire within reach—a bright future as a barrister and engagement to Jane Vernon, a wealthy baron’s daughter. Then a shattering betrayal by his vindictive brother George snatched away Dom’s inheritance and his hopes of offering Jane a secure future. Brokenhearted, and attempting to end their engagement without destroying Jane’s reputation, Dom staged a betrayal of his own to convince her that he’s not the husband-to-be that she thought.

Now George is gone and the viscountcy restored to Dom, since his brother’s widow, Nancy—Jane’s cousin and closest confidant—never bore an heir. But when Nancy goes missing, a panicked Jane calls on her former fiancé to track down her cousin. Dom knows the mistakes of the past may be unforgiveable—but now, entangled together in mystery and danger, will they rekindle a passionate longing that was never lost to begin with?

The First Quadrille at Almack's
Public Domain (link)

To be fond of dancing was a certain step towards falling in love. - Jane Austen

In the opening chapter, Dominick Manton spies his beloved fiance, Jane Vernon, dancing with another ... as he is late to the ball.  In fact, he doesn't want her to see him just yet until he can figure out a way to break off their engagement.  Dominick cannot support Jane as a lady among the ton once his vengeful brother cut off his inheritance.   So he takes the cowardly way out and kisses another woman.   

Years later, Dominick assumes the title of Viscount Rathmoor upon the death of his brother.   Jane contacts him to help her find the missing Viscountess who happens to be Jane's long time friend.   Fate throws Dominick and Jane together but they have grown wiser and wary.   Jeffries delivers a passion filled "road trip" as the couple find themselves with another chance of love.   Along the way, hero and heroine bring along their emotional baggage that disrupted their first courtship.   

WHEN THE VISCOUNT FALLS is Book Four in the Duke's Men series.   I have not read the previous three books (gasp!) but I was able to follow along the story line as if it was a stand alone novel.   Characters from previous books make guest appearance (as they are connected to the emotional baggage) but the focus remains on the fated couple.   

Recommended read for fans of Regency romance as Jeffries excels in the pomp and circumstance of the time period.

I received an ARC for an honest review.

Caricature of longways dance by Rowlandson
Public Domain (link)

I am giving away a print copy of IF THE VISCOUNT FALLS to one randomly selected commenter. To enter the giveaway,

1.  Let's talk about the cover ... notice the ruby necklace cascading down the heroine's back.  What is your favorite necklace?  Mine is a long gold Victorian chain link necklace from my English granny.

2.  Comments are open through Saturday, February 14, 10 pm in Baltimore.  

3.  I'll post the winner on Sunday, February 15.

Mahalo,

Kim in Baltimore

Aloha Spirit in Charm City

Learn more about Sabrina and her books at sabrinajeffries.com.