William and Margaret grew up living next door to one another in Surrey but grow up and go their separate ways. William went off to fight Napoleon and Margaret became a London debutante, but an injury brings William home and the lifelong friends cross paths once again, and not under the most ideal circumstances.

This is the second novel in the Allen Abby Romance series and I can confidently say that this series gets better and better. I have listened to both the first and second novels on Audible, and love the narrator, Maria Johnson, so much. Her voice helps this Regency world come alive and practically busting in technicolor.

Margaret is a heroine that any progressive-minded person can get behind, with her quick wit and strong will, but she is gracious in nature, and not pushy. I adored the banter between Margaret and the other characters, their impassioned conversations some of my favorite scenes, especially her interactions with William and her sister.

I also loved William’s character, though I did feel like there was a slight gap in his arc. He went from struggling with his injury and the effects of war, often turning to the bottle, to a perfect gentleman who seems to have minimal struggles. I think the growth is believed to be off the page, but I would’ve liked to have seen more authenticity in his conflicts.

If you’re wanting a well-written clean Regency romance full of heart that provides a delicious escape then look no further. If you can, listen to the Audible version as it heightens the experience so much and makes the reading of the novel that much sweeter. ( )