Purity
Series: Diamonds of the First Water #2
Author: Sydney Jane Baily
Published June 9th 2022 by WOLF Publishing

Goodreads Synopsis
In this seductive early Victorian romance by USA Today Bestselling author Sydney Jane Baily, a proper young lady tries to civilize the unseemly bachelor baron. Can she do so without shattering her impeccable reputation?

She’s a straitlaced silk-stocking and he’s a scandalous fox!

Known as the “proper Diamond sister,” Lady Purity thoroughly enjoys adhering to the rules of society. Everything is right in her world when manners are minded and civility reigns. Clean gloves, no vulgarities, not a hair out of place!

Renowned for his past indiscretions, Lord Matthew Foxford doesn’t let propriety or tedious rules get in his way. Asking the prim earl’s daughter to teach him etiquette, he hopes to win her heart while loosening her corset.

Unaware of his intent, Purity agrees to turn this thundering buck into a reputable nobleman. Can she do so without falling for his seductive charm? Or will the Fox tempt her from the straight and narrow path into the garden of irreparable ruin?

Engaging characters, attention to period detail, and passionate romance with a touch of intrigue — you’ll find it all in the stories by USA Today bestselling author Sydney Jane Baily.
Goodreads

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

Lady Purity Diamond is everything her name entails. She is the pure and rule abiding member of the family, and even the patronesses turn to her for etiquette. So when Lord Matthew Foxford realises that he needs to rectify his rakish reputation, and prove to family that he is on the straight and narrow, he begs Purity for help. After all, he insulted her by thinking she was a light skirt, and she set him right. But as Matthew spends more time with Purity, learning what makes her tick, and understanding her character, he soon realises that she is the one he wants - but can he convince her of that?

Well, Purity was definitely better than Clarity. I liked Purity and Matthew's story a lot more than the previous one, and actually cared about their relationship much more too. Matthew was a definite rake, but he owned it, and was honestly trying to change his ways, and be better for both himself and for Purity. Purity was a bit too annoying at first - she was so stuck in her ways, and not a likeable person, but Matthew brought out the best in her. All in all, an alright story, and has made me consider continuing the series.

Dates Read:
June 2-3, 2022

Rating
3 Stars