Tessa finds herself in a marriage of convenience to Joseph Chance,
and though not what she expected, she finds herself captivated by her
new husband. However, a secret she could not reveal until they were
married finds her alone, as her husband leaves straight for his business
venture in Barbados. Wanting to prove to her husband and herself that
she can do something with her life, and hoping to repair her marriage,
she educates herself on her husband's business ventures and begins to
create a life for herself. When Joseph does return home she realizes
she still loves him, and can only hope she can prove that her secret
need not destroy the happiness they could potentially find in each
other's arms.
ALL DRESSED IN WHITE is the
second book in Charis Michaels' Brides of Belgravia series. Fans of Michaels may remember
the hero of the story, Joseph Chance, from the previous novel, and may
find, as I did, a thrill in finding out what happened to this servant turned
businessman. Joseph was a great secondary character, and Michaels'
makes sure he really shines as the hero of ALL DRESSED IN WHITE. He is kindhearted,
intelligent, and his background makes for a unique hero. His love for
Tessa is clear, and though he makes a few missteps, the only makes
him a more well-rounded and likable character. Tessa does come off at
times as a bit abrasive, but overall she does begin to grow and become
more likable as the story continues. Her determination to make her life
matter is commendable and her love for Joseph clear and strong.
Michaels handles Tessa's trauma remarkably well, and giving Tessa the
final say at the end, really shows how much she has grown and strong
she has become. There are a few twists and turns that keep the story
moving, though not a lot of action. ALL
DRESSED IN WHITE is a quick, simple read, with some steamy
romance, a familiar hero, and a story that will keep a reader's attention
from start to finish.
Self-made shipping magnate Joseph Chance never planned on
falling in love. He simply needed financing for a new
business venture and a marriage of convenience provides it.
Then he meets Tessa St. Croix, his future bride, and is
instantly smitten. But when the angelic beauty reveals a
life-changing secret on their wedding night, Joseph thinks
maybe some dreams shouldn’t come true. He leaves England,
reconciling himself to a detached, convenient marriage after
all.
Eleven months later, Tessa Chance has built a new life for
herself in the heart of London. She’s learned her new
husband's business and is determined to support herself and
her responsibilities. When Joseph returns to London
unexpectedly, nothing is as he imagined. His estranged wife
has become the one person who can help him secure his
company’s future, and her allure can tempt him still.
Determined and hopeful, Tessa jumps at the chance to prove
herself and justify the secret that tore them apart.
Although bruised pride and broken hearts lie between them,
Joseph and Tessa realize the love they once felt has never
truly left. If they can learn to forgive each other, they’ll
soon discover the truest love can heal all wounds.