I received this book for free from Netgalley in order to prepare an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
The Return of Lady Jane (The Scandal Sheet, #1) by Jess Michaels Series: The Scandal Sheet #1
Published by The Passionate Pen on January 8, 2019
Genres: Historical
Pages: 98
Goodreads
FINAL DECISION: I enjoyed that the hero eventually had to prove himself to Jane in the end. Although the villain and his purpose was obvious from the start, the book shines in its development of the relationship between Jane and Colin.
THE STORY: Lady Jane Wharton was married and bitterly disappointed the same day. She married Colin after a long courtship, but after a passionate afternoon after their wedding ceremony, he banished her to the country. Now Jane has returned and despite Colin’s coldness, he cannot seem to keep away from her. Jane is determined to claim her husband and find out what is keeping them apart.
OPINION: I enjoyed this short read. I wasn’t sure I was going to like the hero since he is easily manipulated by the villain. It was obvious to me what was happening and I found the hero’s inability to see that annoying. Of course, this villain, like Iago in Othello is too easily manipulated by his inability to trust. At least, there is some explanation for his lack of trust. Colin and Jane are just beginning their relationship as the book begins (since their marriage was arranged rather than a love match).
Although the mystery of what drove Colin and Jane apart is quickly settled, that didn’t bother me at all because I was happy that this book is really about their reconciliation and not the plot of what happened in the past.
My favorite part of the book is when the truth comes out and these two have to find a way to save their marriage. That portion of the book which is just Colin and Jane is sweet and emotional. I loved the entire last section of the book.
This book is not as complex as others that Michaels has written primarily because of the length. However, the second part of this book which depends primarily on the emotional connection between the characters elevated this story for me.
I enjoyed this short read and look forward to more in this series.
WORTH MENTIONING: This book, and indeed each book in this series, is a novella. This book is about 100 pages.
CONNECTED BOOKS: THE RETURN OF LADY JANE is the first book in the Scandal Sheet series.
STAR RATING: I give this book 4 stars.
NOTE: I received an ARC of this book via Netgalley. I was not required to write a review or to write a positive review. All opinions contained herein are my own.