A Novel with Thoughts and Ponderings

AN UNLIKELY COUNTESS

Author: Jo Beverley ISBN: 9780451232717 3/2011 HISTORICAL Publisher: SIGNET
Time Period: Georgian Era, 1765

An Unlikely Countess by Jo Beverley
AFTER LEAVING THE ARMY AND FALLING OUT WITH HIS family, Catesby Burgoyne is drowning his sorrows when he comes across a woman being attacked by thugs. A fight is just what he needs, but little does he realize that the lady he rescues will change his life.

Prudence Youlgrave is not just the victim of ruffians. Her life has been made a shambles by her selfish brother and her brutish fiance. But she has a bold and courageous spirit Catesby can't resist—and before he knows it, he rescues her again by marrying her himself.

A reckless adventurer may be forgiven for such an impulse. But when Catesby's elder brother dies, he becomes the Earl of Malzard—and Prudence is suddenly a most unlikely countess. Neither she nor Catesby is prepared to face the shock of his family. Still almost strangers, Prudence and Catesby have no one to turn to but each other—and it is in each other's arms that they find a love neither ever expected.

RRAH's THOUGHTS AND PONDERINGS: Top Pick

Jo Beverley knows her craft, and she never disappoints. Her books are not just fun and exciting to read, but they make you feel like you’re right in the thick of things! What a wonderful and unique love story she brings us this time.

I found the plot original and unique; the story fresh and engaging. In giving us Cate (Catesby Burgoyne), she has created a character that just melts our hearts. He’s a gentleman and a dutiful son and a hero to our heroine. In rescuing Prudence, he rescues himself, as well. We watch him struggle before and after he becomes an heir to earldom, and we can’t help but root for him.

Life for Prudence Youlgrave has not been easy. She’s impoverished through neglect of her brother, and by the time Cate rescues her from a bunch of bad guys, she’s had enough and is planning to take her destiny into her own hands. We cheer her on as she confronts her brother and especially his wife.

Our hero and heroine are strong on their own, but together, they’re a force to be reckoned with. Their love story was sweet and tender, and I liked that the author took the time and care in developing a true and genuine relationship between Prudence and Cate. Ms. Beverley took no shortcuts with this story. This romance felt real and not rushed. Also, it was much, much fun catching up with Diana, the Countess of Arradale, as she puts in a cameo appearance.

If you’re looking for a love story that will warm your heart and give you the “fuzzies”, look no further than AN UNLIKELY COUNTESS.

Melanie Friedman

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