Charming characters and a happy ending, what's not to like. ( )

I loved this book, I dont know which rock i've been hiding under not to have read this book for so long. I'm a sucker for books that have the heroes realizing they might have lost the girl and then chase her, it brings out the cinderella in me. I would definitely be reading more of the scandalous bride series. ( )

A beautiful fire-haired Tantalus girl, Sophia, is thrown into the river and nearly drowns before being saved by Adam Baswich, Duke of Greaves, whose Christmas party she was traveling to. The party promises to be her last chance at happiness before her father has her, his illegitimate daughter, wed off to a cruel victor.

The collapsing bridge results in most of the Christmas party guests being caught on the far side of the river while Adam and Sophia make their way back to Greaves Park. Sophia looses all her belongings in the river, but that does not stop the witty, charming, girl with firey hair and a sunshine personality from having a grand time anyway. Befriending the servants, Sophia finds a way to bring some joy to the Christmas holiday. Even the intimidating stern Duke who is used to getting his way softens in her presence. What ensues is a delightful romance full of ice fishing, snow ball fights, and hot steamy baths. That is until the bridge is repaired...

When the rest of the guests join them, including a gaggle of potential brides for Adam, everything changes. Adam's cold-hearted father has stipulated in his will that Adam must marry by the time he is 30 or loose his inheritance. Her cruel sister is determined to avoid scandal and to remind Adam as to why he is no better than their father. At the same time, Sophia must marry the victor or risk her friends well-being at the Tantalus club. With both friends and foe at the party, and society and circumstances making it impossible for them to be together, Sophia knows the Christmas romance is just a brief happy memory before she must begin the unhappy life her father has contrived for her.

Full of clever wit, funny dialogue, the best servants that have ever been written into a book, and a steamy and sweet romance, this book is a must read! Will the Duke of Greaves and the Tantalus girl be able to save each other? ( )