Barbara’s rating: 4 out of 5 Stars
Series: Standalone
Publication Date: 2/24/26
Period: Victorian
Number of Pages: 368
I first discovered this author in the early ’90s and quickly became addicted to her writing when she launched the Sherbrooke Brides historical romance series. What’s beyond addicted? I’m not sure—but I reached that level when I found her suspense-filled FBI series. In short, I’m a long-time fan. So I was delighted to learn she has returned to her historical romance roots, featuring members of the Sherbrooke family once again. It was especially lovely to see Ryder Sherbrooke and his beloved Lady Sophie.
Alex Ivanov’s life truly began eleven years ago, when he was pulled from the Thames and brought back to life by Ryder Sherbrooke. With no memory of his past, Alex was taken in by Ryder and Sophie, given a name, an education, and a carefully constructed history that allowed him to function in society. He developed a passion for all things mechanical, constantly improving everything from farming tools to trains. While waiting on a park bench for Ryder to finish a meeting at Parliament, Alex is approached by a young lady who chatters away without hesitation. Far from being annoyed, he is completely charmed—despite knowing he is socially beneath her, even as Ryder’s ward.
Lady Camilla (Cam) Rohman is a radiant force of nature—beautiful, witty, warm, and impossible not to adore. Everyone loves her… except her new, young stepmother, who is determined to see Cam married off and out of the house as quickly as possible. With her father thoroughly besotted with his new bride, Cam knows she has little time before she’s forced into marriage with some odious suitor. Then she meets the most handsome man she has ever seen—sitting quietly on a park bench—and, to her delight, her chatter doesn’t seem to trouble him in the least.
When Alex finally discovers his true identity, he is stunned. Meeting his real father brings complicated emotions—especially since Ryder is the only father he has ever known. His biological father is kind, loving, and has mourned his lost sons for eleven long years. Yet Alex has no memory of him or the estate he once called home. Who kidnapped Graham and his brother Simon all those years ago? If Graham was thrown into the river and left to drown, what happened to Simon? And are those responsible still out there, determined to finish what they started?
I can’t remember the last time I enjoyed a cast of characters this much. Cam and Graham are delightful together, and their fathers—along with Ryder—round out a wonderfully engaging ensemble. There’s witty banter, scandalous secrets, and a mystery that keeps you guessing until the end. There were a few plot points that felt slightly unresolved, and I would have loved a bit more in the epilogue to tie everything up. (As for the runaway wife—let’s just say I wouldn’t have minded a less-than-comfortable fate for her!)
This is a truly delightful story with two leads who are perfectly matched. If you enjoy a blend of romance, mystery, and charming characters, you can’t go wrong with this book.
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