A stranger interrupts Arabella Lacey as she's caring for her precious orchids at her brother's country estate. He brings news of her brother's suicide, which occurred after he lost his fortune. Arabella feels no sadness for her immoral brother. With his predilection for gambling, drink and vice, she always knew he'd come to a violent end. The offer of a marriage-of-convenience from the stranger does surprise her.

Jack Fortescu, the Duke of St. Jules, carefully plotted the destruction of Frederick Lacey, the Earl of Dunston. Acquiring Lacey's sister completes the circle of vengeance that has sustained him since the death of his sister. Frederick sealed Jack's sister's fate when he betrayed her to the French mob who screamed for aristocratic blood during the bloody French Revolution. Jack's plan to wed and then abandon Arabella changes abruptly when instead of a meek spinster, Jack finds himself with a headstrong woman who refuses to compliantly follow his wishes.

Arabella accepts Jack's proposal but she has her own demands. Acceding to Arabella's wishes, Jack enters into a marriage of inconvenience. Arabella delves into Jack's past trying to uncover his secrets and discover the real reason behind their marriage. Jack has met his match and the sparks fly as Arabella chips through his hard exterior, exposing his heart to love.

Ms. Feather brilliantly takes an ordinary plot and infuses it with intense emotion and passionate, strong characters. Complete with its dark hero and headstrong heroine, ALMOST A BRIDE is impossible to put down. Readers should be ready for a late-night read with this wonderful keeper.