#Review: THE RAKE AND THE ROSE by Eva Devon

 

4 of 5 stars

Ms. Devon is one of my favorite authors, and this book doesn't disappoint. Alexander Markby, sixth Earl of Derby, has loved Rose Digby since they were children, but when her father breaks the contract with Alexander's father, he throws them off the land while Alexander is powerless to stop them. When Alexander finally becomes the new earl, he does everything in his power to secretly help both Rose and her brother Henry enjoy better lives. As a matter of fact, Alexander is the benefactor for a number of other artists--people who would not otherwise be able to hone their craft while trying not to starve. He portrays himself as a rake and a darling of Society, but he longs for a loving partner. Of course, the only one he wants to marry is Rose.

Miss Rose Digby was devastated when Alexander pulled back from their friendship after the horrible circumstances with her father. She's harbored an intense dislike for his frivolous ways while she labors away, writing pamphlets trying to better the lives of those less fortunate. Of course, she doesn't know that Alexander is the one behind her payments. When she comes up with a crazy idea to help fallen women, she must seek Alexander's help in infiltrating a pleasure house.

This story was a little different than the usual historical romance because it's a woman who is immovable in her opinion. Rose will not forgive Alexander for abandoning her, and she has left all joy behind in her life, trying to make things better for those who cannot speak for themselves. Rose has a lot of growing and changing to do, and I loved how Ms. Devon made sure her feelings did not change on a whim. Alexander has always been a good man who enjoyed the beauty in life and tries every day to help someone. When he agrees to help Rose, he can't help but hope her opinion of him will change. Unfortunately, that didn't seem to happen. This is a well-crafted story and the plot moves along nicely. I did think Rose was a bit harsh in her judgmental way. Through a myriad of misunderstandings and a few twists in the book, Alexander and Rose finally get their happily ever after.

I voluntarily read the advanced reader copy, and all opinions are my own.