After many doctors and many diagnoses there is no hope. Sir James de Ville is dying. He is in his London apartment tying up loose ends before returning to his home, Grace Gardens. There, along with his faithful companion, a huge Mastiff, named Demosthenes, (the Seeker of Truth), aka "Dem".

He plans to enjoy his final days enjoying his beautiful gardens and countryside. He has just written a farewell note to his mistress and sent her a parting gift. His cousin Graeme is astonished at his coldness. He remarks on how ill James appears and encourages him to see Dr. Hinsdale, one of the brightest and up-to-date doctors in the area. His daughter, Laura, was once Graeme's love interest but James broke them up as he felt a doctor's daughter was not worthy of marrying Graeme. Instead, James introduced him to Abigail, a beautiful heiress and now his wife.

When James calls on the Hinsdale residence, Laura tells him her father died two weeks ago. Now in debt and homeless, James proposes a marriage arrangement of mutual benefit to both and Laura accepts. She will be a wealthy widow and he knows she will take care of his estate and treat his grasping and selfish family fairly.

Candace Camp is a sterling story teller. Her characters are so endearing especially handsome and charming, James de Ville, who has a dry sense of humor that will keep you laughing. A marriage of convenience, becomes a platonic relationship, that turns into a sweet friendship. Soon their physical attraction begins to sizzle and James introduces his bride to the art of making love. Laura is a caring wife and discovers why James is so ill and nurses him back to health.

A touch of mystery that this super sleuth did not solve is deftly woven into this regency romance that is five stars. With witty dialogue, sweet intimacy, this is a page turner that will have you reading into the night to the smashing climax. "Dem" is truly a pet hero that added to this thrilling tale of lies, betrayals, and second chances. A MOMENTARY MARRIAGE is one not to miss. It will touch your heart. It touched mine and I adored it!