Nothing ever goes as planned! Major Charles Draysmith had plans for an illustrious military career with lots of London fluff on the side. Now, with the unexpected deaths of his brother and his wife, he is the Marquis of Knightsdale, holding a position and title he definitely didn't want.

Setting his priorities like military targets, his first goal was to get a wife and settle the estate, so he could get on with his life in London. Reaching the country home, he was pleasantly surprised to find that the temporary governess of his two nieces was none other than Emma Peterson, his old "Shadow", a younger childhood admirer who has blossomed into a shapely woman indeed. Faced with the prospect of having to deal with the London ton and all those mommas with their daughters of all shapes and sizes, he thought that it would be brilliant to marry 26 year old Emma and his eccentric Aunt Bea agreed as well. In fact, almost everyone agreed it would be a perfect match, except for the ton mammas and Emma herself. Yes, her tummy fluttered when she saw him and she was close to being an old maid, but no way was she going to marry for practicality when she so desired to be in love! Only that would cause her to leave her duty. Emma had always been the caregiver, both for her younger sister, Meg, and her poppa, the Vicar, since her mother died. How could she leave them when her poor papa was being pursued by that awful Harriet who never left leave him alone? Charmed as she was by Charles, she knew he could turn it on with the ladies and that it wasn't love. Besides, she still hadn't really gotten to know the mysterious Mr. Stockley. Would it be love with him?

Sally MacKenzie has written a book filled with steamy dialogue and amusing repartee. It is little wonder Emma is always blushing! What I especially liked was the strong development of the secondary characters and insights into their motivations. You will chuckle when Aunt Bea's outrageous remarks go zinging and be totally delighted with the antics of the Isabelle and Claire as they sneak their way into Charles' heart and are determined to select their new mama. The plot is well developed and while a bit predictable, it has lots of interesting twists, little mysteries and enough schemings to hold your attention. Enjoy!