Theodora Ravensdale has one chance of escaping her abusive husband, and she plans to grab it with both hands. Suffering years of beatings and abuse, Theodora knows that in 1866, nobody will come to her rescue, as she is considered to be her husband's property to do with what he will. Having little or no family left, her husband has isolated her, turning her into a housekeeper and punching bag. But Theodora has a plan. Creating a new identity for herself, as widow Mrs. Mathilda Milsom, Theodora has procured a job as a cook at Longley Hall, in the distant countryside. And when her marital home accidentally catches fire, Theodora flees, hoping that her husband will believe she died in the blaze. Freedom is finally within her reach.

Jonathan Tenwick, Viscount Caxton, is exasperated by his family as usual. His mother has hired a new cook, having never met her, his sister Julia is always running around rescuing stray animals, and his father trusts everyone that crosses his path. Loving his family dearly, he feels he has to behave in a serious fashion, and is forever suspicious. Upon meeting Theodora, Jonathan realises two things - One She is hiding something and has been seriously hurt in the past, and two. he is utterly enamoured with her and yearns to get closer to her.

As his unusual and loving household embrace Theodora, and accept her as their own, she yearns to remain in this wonderful home and explore her growing feelings for Jonathan. But as her past catches up with her, and her husband closes in, will Jonathan be able to stop the woman he loves from disappearing beyond his reach forever?

STIRRING UP THE VISCOUNT by Marin McGinnis is an addictive Regency romance, with that extra special something added in for good measure. Theodora is a complex character who is both traumatised by her situation, but also brave and spirited as she fights to claw back a life for herself. I love the Tenwick household and as they are expertly described, I can easily picture each individual character. With danger, passion, and gripping characters, STIRRING UP THE VISCOUNT by Marin McGinnis is a brilliant read and I look forward to reading more from this author.