Earl of Darby

I received an advanced reader’s copy in exchange for an honest review

Not enough heat but very strong story and characters, 3.5 rounded up

Will an Earl sets on revenge, be able to let the past go to make room for a new love ...

Slowly I am discovering the many authors writing for this charming series, The Wicked Earls Club.
And today Mrs Aubrey Wynne was one of them.
As she pointed out in her Afterword note, the story, a Christmas themed tale begins on the worst omen, yet, it is to emphasize the journey the hero will face until he finds peace.
Nicholas, perfect name for a avenging angel during Christmastide. While he was as much a victim as his late wife, he bears the burden of her irremediable decision, and never allowed himself to rest until he sets her soul free from her suffering. But in doing this promise, he got himself trapped in the way, now locked up in the coffin of the walls surrounding his heart.
Hannah has longed for her soulmate all her young life, and she definitively thought she had found him in the person of her brother’s childhood friend, while her instant attraction to Nicholas unsettles her to no end, until she sees a glimpse of the real man he tries to hide behind his society’s mask. From there, she decides to open her eyes and heart to catch him as he might not realize, yet, how much he will need her.

In all, a wonderful story of healing and the strength love can give us.

On a special note, I loved the author gave some particular scenes the outlook from both sides, it is refreshing.
I am just a bit disappointed is the dashing cover model is not sharing the blond hero, fair features.

5 stars for this moving tale.

I was granted an advance copy by the author through Netgalley, I preordered too my own.
Here is my true and unbiased opinion.

The Earl of Danby has lived his life with regret and sadness, since the death of his wife. Having been married for only one day, Alice took her life but before doing so, left a letter that would haunt him. Several years later, his best friend asks him to watch over his sister, Miss Hannah Pendleton, who is making her debut in London society. She has befriended his sister who has also blossomed with her friendship with Hannah. Everyone loves Hannah, so it is easy to understand when Nick also falls for her, but given his past, he tries all that he can to keep himself apart from her.
Nicholas was a tormented soul, yet he is instantly attracted to Hannah, who is such a delightful and kind hearted character. Both were so right for each other, that it was easy to see this relationship blossoming. I enjoyed reading this story from both characters perspective and found many of the secondary characters added to this lovely romance. A great addition to this series; however, this is a stand-alone story.
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.