The tale of Theodora and Matthew has all elements I love: an independent intelligent and scientific woman only our hero can appreciate; a would be lover trying to trick her into a marriage she does not want; a woman who has experienced tragedy learning to open herself up to love. Unfortunately I could not connect with the characters in the beginning. They just seemed wooden and not sympathetic. There were times in the rest of the book they became real to me but in the end I could not connect. I will not recommend this book to my patrons.

Can two scholars living in two different world with distinct background find a common base for a future together.

Mrs Anabelle Bryant with these two very clever and flawed characters has devised a brilliant and bright tale of choosing its true path.

Matthew, Earl of Whittingham has made his mission to ensue every published article in scientific publications must be ascertained. It is how he finds himself estranged in the country because of bad weather.
He is a man who made with his impairment, what he has no more on the physical side, he has won with his intellectual pursuits. Thus he is no obtuse man and soon Theodosia intrigue him. She is so unlike the ladies he usually frequent, he fells irritably drawn to her.
But they have both different agendas, so it is not meant to be.
Sure, he first walked away but they had known each other for a couple of days, so nothing to lead to a change of life.
But when they meet again, he was the first to realize there is more that chemistry between her. And once set on the path he must follow, he let nothing deter him from his goal.
He is a kind and caring man, in spite of the mistakes he makes at time as he must temper his own requirements, he always let his needs seconding Theodosia’s first. He is man of grand gestures, and for a scholar, he acts as promptly as he thinks. And for the woman he loves, he will risk anything.
Theodosia has known no other way than her life with her scientific grandfather in their quite isolated estate. Her sole foray outside of her confort zone was a failure, a feeling she is not ready to face again. She knows she is no ton lady, her upbringing gave her the freedom to carry on any area she wanted but set her apart too from the “demure” debutantes.
Why she is concentrating on her scientific courses and her grandfather failing health. But Matthew’s arrival unsettles everything she has done lately. She first is suspicious of his presence, with right but once they clear his queries, new sentiments take place even if she knows nothing is to be expected.
Their second chance encounter opens her to a glimpse of what could be but also of more heartaches to come as she is certain of only one thing, she won’t abandon her sole parent.
They are matter of fact straightforward characters, they do some introspection but quickly peruse their own turmoil and once the truth of their sentiments known, there is no denial. They accept them. Up to them to decide if they must give themselves a chance or not.

I have been charmed by this lovely tale of two people who must choose what they are seeking for first, success or love.
4.5 stars

I was granted through Netgalley by the publisher Kensington/Zebra an advance copy, I have also purchased my own.
Here is my true and unbiased opinion.

I loved this book so much!!! Both characters are adorable and they are perfect for each other!!! I will definitviley read more books by this author!!

London’s Late Night Scandal⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
By Anabelle Bryant

This is the third book in the Midnight Secret Series and I have read all three much to my delight.

Matthew Strathmore, Earl of Whittingham, suffered a debilitating injury in his knee and has been somewhat limited in his pursuits.As Chief officer of the Society of Intellectual Advance it is his job to verify if articles published by the group are correct.
When Matthew discovers an anomaly in a recent article published by the renowned Lord Talbott he must investigate. Matthew sets himself on the long arduous trip to Leighton Hall home of Lord Talbott. It is at Leighton Matthew meets Theodosia granddaughter of the Lord.
Matthew observes how protective Theodosia is of her grandfather and although he was invited to visit feels like an intruder. As Matthew digs deeper into this family dynamic he sees more than he bargained for.
Ms Bryant addresses several situations in this book. True a love story emerges but true family too emerges. Family is not just blood but loyal people surrounding this needy twosome. Dementia is addressed as well as the caregiver.
Her hero is made of the true stuff and in for the duration. I loved this book.

This is the second book this weekend that was not for me but due to the reviews it was obviously me, so please do not go by my review and grab a copy.

This is the book I’ve waited for. Matthews and Theodosias story. I certainly was not disappointed. Anabelle Bryant is an auto buy for me. Matthew is a lonely intellectual and Thea is a mystery to Matthew from the start. The attraction between them sizzles from the pages. Their story kept me turning pages until the early morning. It is a wonderful love story. The characters were delightful. Secondary characters were wonderful as well. I can’t say enough how much I loved this book. I highly recommend this book and would give it more than five stars if I could. I was gifted this book from the author and NetGalley and my opinions are my own.

This is a wonderful love story. The title, though, doesn't fit the tale.

Matthew is a scientist. Theodosia is too, but as a woman she has no voice. So much going on in this story, you can't help but love both these young people. Enjoy!

Thank you netgalley for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I was particularly taken with how well written this historical romance was. The author really captured the essence of this time period and the characters fit beautifully in this world. I admired Theodasia scientific mind and her quest to make a mark in the world. I was glad she found a partner in Matthew. That being said I did feel the story dragged a bit and the language too flowerly to a point where my mind was wandering. But despite that, I enjoyed it and would read more from this author.

I think it's cute Matthew can get flustered at times, “we should . . .” He faltered. “Would you like to go to the gallery? The Elgin Marbles are a rare gift to behold.” The man could get cheeky at times, “if that’s your idea of a good night kiss, then I suggest you prepare for mine.” The words rasped out, his body caught in a state of agonizing pleasure." I liked this book, I liked Matthew.