It is 1818 in England and Juliet Winters is content with her lot. Living with her beloved father in the countryside, breeding her superior hounds, and happily living as a spinster. But when her father becomes ill and tries to marry her off to her cousin, Frederick Winters, Juliet panics. Frederick would never allow her to remain in the countryside, and most certainly would not permit her to be a dog breeder.

So Juliet hatches a plan involving her reserved neighbour, Lord Benjamin Colwyn. Stealing his prize English pointer which is in whelp, she blackmails him - marry her and she will return his beloved companion.

Lord Benjamin Colwyn lives a solitary life after enduring severe loss and pain in his past. Shocked by Juliet's proposal, he is adamant in his refusal. He needs his dog and her pups to save his sister and her family, but he cannot commit to marriage. However, when he realises that she will be forced to marry Frederick Winters, he agrees with her plan. For Frederick is a vile creature and Benjamin will not allow Juliet to be involved with him. As Benjamin and Juliet grow closer, their unique connection turns to blinding passion. But Benjamin is afraid of losing another person that he loves, and fears he cannot live up to everyone's expectations. As Frederick refuses to be ignored, and tragedy strikes under Juliet's guidance, will Benjamin lose love, the only thing worth having?

MISS WINTERS PROPOSES by Frances Fowlkes is a thoroughly entertaining Regency romance. Juliet's character is a fascinating mix of independence, spirit and determination, yet she is sweetly vulnerable and unsure of herself when it comes to Benjamin. As Benjamin struggles with his own demons, I found myself willing him to make the right decision, and I found his character endearing and attractive, if maddening in some instances.

MISS WINTERS PROPOSES by Frances Fowlkes is a short, sweet, entertaining tale, that ticks all of the boxes for me.