Pursued by the Viscount by Carole Mortimer
Series: Regency Unlaced #4
on May 27, 2016
Genres: Historical
Pages: 127
Goodreads

FINAL DECISION:  This was a simple, easy read.  I enjoyed the read, but it wasn’t particularly deep or memorable.  I would classify it as an enjoyable one time read.

THE STORY:  Lady Rachel Shaw is recovering from a bad marriage when she gets in trouble with a blackmailer who has incriminating letters written by her which if revealed could ruin her.  On he recommendation of her friend, Rachel approaches Lucien Brooke, Viscount Brooketon who is known for his ability to deal with sticky situations.  Lucien, at first, has no desire to help a woman who reminds him too much of his flighty, flirty, unfaithful mother but soon recognizes that Rachel’s exterior hides tremendous pain.  Indeed, Lucien realizes that he wants her for himself.

OPINION:  This book is a small story (novella) focusing mostly on the sexual relationship between Rachel and Lucien.  There is instant attraction, a quick sexual relationship and then a quick resolution of the story.  There really isn’t much drama between Rachel and Lucien. What appears to be a significant barrier — Lucien’s impression that Rachel is a flirt and a like his mother — is resolved during their first meeting.

The lack of real drama made this pleasant but not particularly memorable read.  I liked the characters so this was worth the one time read.  I also enjoyed the story because it was part of the series so I knew these characters already.

WORTH MENTIONING: I did not like the story with the blackmailer. I thought the story was stereotypical in its depiction of gays (who end up being the bad guys here).  There was nothing nuanced in the portrayals to soften this stereotypical depiction.

CONNECTED BOOKS: PURSUED BY THE VISCOUNT is the fourth book in the Regency Unlaced Series.  It can be read as a standalone.

STAR RATING: I give this book 3 stars.