Only a Kiss

July 27, 2015
The sixth entry in Balogh’s Survivors’ Club series (after Only a Promise) gives Imogen Hayes, Lady Barclay, her highly anticipated story. Imogen is treated as an equal by the war-scarred male members of the Survivors’ Club, a group of friends recovering from service in the Napoleonic Wars. Her favorite time of year is the three weeks they all spend together every spring. Outside of this time, Imogen lives isolated in Cornwall, a courtesy guest on the estate that would have been her husband’s, a spy who was tortured in front of her. When the new Lord Hardford arrives on a whim to inspect his inheritance, he is unexpectedly drawn to the beautiful widow and her secrets. A plot involving local smugglers throws Imogen and Hardford together, forcing Imogen to face her demons. Although Hardford’s arrogance and aggressive seduction sometimes come across as charmless, this is a satisfying series entry from an author who delivers graceful writing and emotional depth. Agent: Maria Carvainis, Maria Carvainis Agency.

Starred review from August 1, 2015

Resigned to a life of quiet widowhood in Cornwall after her husband was killed during the Napoleonic wars, Imogen Hayes, Lady Barclay, is a bit annoyed when Percival Hayes, the Earl of Hardford and the current Viscount Barclay, arrives to see to his far-flung estate--for the first time since he acceded to the title two years earlier. Imogen assumes he'll soon head back to the dissolute London life she's sure he's been enjoying. Instead, Percy stays on, shattering her peace and resolve as an unexpected attraction flares between them. A delightful supporting cast of characters, a dash of smuggling mystery, and an abundance of wit simply add to the allure. VERDICT An intelligent, innately honorable hero who grows into his role and a stoic, deeply troubled heroine who finds the courage to live and love again discover happiness in this exquisitely written, soul-wrenching tale of forgiveness and acceptance that sees the lone woman "survivor" blissfully (and properly) wed. Another unforgettable gem in the author's star-studded crown. Balogh (Only a Promise) lives in Saskatchewan, Canada.

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