Excellent, Balogh is a great Regency writer.

Unlike his charismatic brother (Nick) and father (Caleb), Devlin is more serious and aware of his duties. However, the Ware family is a happy one, or so it seems. Neighbor Gwyneth Rhys has long been friends with Nick, but speculation about their relationship leads them to avoid each other more putting Gwyneth in the path of Devlin for whom she has crushed for several years. One of the major events at their home is the annual fete on the manor grounds organized by Devlin's mother assisted by her children. The festivities are as expected, and Devlin and Gwyneth even declare their mutual feelings for one another with a promise of courtship. However, the discovery of Caleb and his mistress together at the fete leads to a public scene in which Devlin's sense of duty overrides that of decorum. The next morning, Gwyneth finds herself saying good-bye to the man she thought would be courting her as he and his illegitimate half-brother, Ben, leave the family home to join the military fight against Napoleon. After 7 years as an officer and the death of his father, Devlin's sense of duty brings him back home where he must mend relationships shattered years ago including with Gwyneth. Can her love help him see beyond mere duty? (read less)

Unlike his charismatic brother (Nick) and father (Caleb), Devlin is more serious and aware of his duties. However, the Ware family is a happy one, or so it seems. Neighbor Gwyneth Rhys has long been friends with Nick, but speculation about their relationship leads them to avoid each other more putting Gwyneth in the path of Devlin for whom she has crushed for several years. One of the (read more)