This book came out in June from Mills & Boon and initially I was intrigued by a historical romance set in the Caribbean. I’d give a content warning for emotional & physical abuse from a family member, but aside from that I enjoyed the early chapters of the book. Pauline’s parents died when she was a fairly young child and she’s been under the supervision of her much older brother. He treats her harshly, and then engineers circumstances to force her into a marriage with Sebastian. The main conflict of the romance in the book hinges around first, Sebastian thinking Paulina was in league with her brother to stage the engagement and then around his various other concerns about the trouble with caring for someone. This is where I got bored. He swings back and forth so often between acting like he cares for her and then deciding that too many people “depend” on him for him to do something as dangerous as *gasp* caring about a woman. Just look at all the terrible things that happen when he does! *eye roll*
I really got fed up of him and had to force myself to push on just so I could find out how they eventually resolved things with Paulina’s brother. Honestly though I think she deserved a better husband than Sebastian.

I received this ebook from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

I read this ARC for an honest review
All thoughts and opinions are mine

This has a slightly different premise than the usual M&B romance and I enjoyed that
Set in 19th Century also a big tick from me

Thoroughly enjoyed this

Set in the 1900s in the Caribbean, this romance explores the dark issues of domestic abuse and forced marriage, making the ethos realistic whilst delivering an engaging love story between Paulina and Sebastian. The believably created menace that defines the antagonist Antonio makes the story suspenseful.

I liked how the couple, Paulina and Sebastian, gained self-esteem and learned to trust as their relationship developed. I also enjoyed the original setting and the sensitive exploration of disturbing issues. The romance is lovely, and they so deserve their happiness.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher.

A really enjoyable and different book. Paulina is betrayed by her cruel brother and forced to marry their neighbour Sebastian. An interesting look at society at the turn of the 19th century and how societal power is earnt and waged. Paulina and Sebastian are caught up in the struggles of her brother and his ability and obsession with getting and keeping control. Some lovely romance underpinning the marriage of two strangers,