It starts a little slow-- at first I wasn't sure I could finish it-- and Valentine and Bridget are hard characters to sell: he's a self-absorbed dandy/blackmailer and she's his practical, competent housekeeper. But Hoyt is a great writer and, amazingly, she pulls this off. They become vividly realized and their relationship, unlikely as it seems, becomes very moving and believable. Her history and period details alone would make this a great read. Can't wait for the next one! 
 NOTE I RECEIVED AN ARC OF THIS BOOK FROM NETGALLEY IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW.