Mr. Clarke's Deepest Desire
Series: Enterprising Scoundrels #2
Author: Sophie Barnes
Published November 22nd 2022 by Sophie Barnes

Goodreads Synopsis
When an earl's daughter falls for a businessman in this secret identities Regency romance, she risks more than heartbreak when his connection to her past threatens her reputation...

How can he build a future with a woman whose father ruined his life?

Having recently suffered the death of her father, Rosamund Parker faces an uncertain future. Intent on retaining her independence, she plans to invest her modest inheritance. But the man whose help she seeks is as infuriating as he is handsome. For reasons she can't comprehend, he's set on thwarting her at every turn, even as he tempts her with kisses she ought not want.

Matthew Clarke needs funding for his locomotive business, but he'll not accept it from the Earl of Stoneburrow's daughter. As far as Matthew's concerned, that entire family can go hang. Unfortunately, Lady Rosamund seems to pop up wherever he goes. Ignoring the fire she stirs in him becomes an increasing challenge. But surrendering to it could prove disastrous. It could in fact ruin both their lives...
Goodreads

Review
I received an Advance Reader Copy from the publisher, via NetGalley. This in no way impacted on my view.

Lady Rosamund Parker's life is rocked when her father's will stipulates that she only has £500 to live on, until she marries and her dowry is available. No one is allowed to help her, not even her uncle, the new Earl of Stoneburrow. So she decides to invest in a promising engineering firm, but the owner, Matthew Clarke wants nothing from her. He was the hall boy once, and after the late Earl abused his mother, they were thrown out with nothing. However, Rosamund is not one to give up lightly, and when they are in company together at a house party, there's a growing attraction that the pair can't seem to fight any longer.

I enjoyed this one more than the first book, I think. Rosamund and Matthew's story was a believable one, and their connection and chemistry was clear to see. Neither of them went into their meetings wanting anything from each other, certainly not a relationship, but their initially grudging respect and admiration soon allowed them to let their feelings grow and blossom into something they needed to explore. A quick read, great for people who enjoy Regency romances.

Dates Read:
January 29, 2023

Rating
3 Stars