This is a charming and lighthearted romance, that has a fun and interesting feel. Jane Ashford's writing has an easy style that is quickly compelling, and well paced. I was easily draw into this sweet romance between two people who have different hopes and dreams than maybe they believe they are destined for. Ashford crafts her characters with care and they are all interesting and unique. She has also created characters that have been previously established in the first book in this series and they delightfully carry through into this story as well.
The focus of this romance is between Jack (the rogue), an American shipping owner and an heir to an earldom, he has not wishing for, and Harriet who has been whisked away to her wealthy grandfather's country estate, but all she longs for is freedom. When Harriet meets Jack with a band of travelers she is intrigued and finds a delightful rebellion in escaping to get to know him and the travelers together. Of course, it soon comes out the Jack is the lost earl and Harriet becomes confused by her blossoming feelings for the rogue she met and the Earl Jack is meant to be.
It was really interesting and unique to have Jack and the travelers be a new way for Harriet to discover more of the world outside of her Grandfather's control. I really enjoyed watching Harriet discover a strength in herself to seek out adventure and I love that Harriet is also open to learning about other people's traditions and cultures. I love that Jack finds a kinship with these travelers and they feel more like family than his relations. Jack and Harriet enter into a soft relationship and sweetly fall in love with each other. Their romance is light on the steam and sensuality but their relationship is charming and endearing. This is definitely the perfect option for someone who does not light any steam in the romance but is looking for a beautiful love story.
I really enjoyed this first exploration into Jane Ashford's work. I found her writing to be really good and I really enjoyed this story. I am looking forward to exploring more of her works. I would definitely recommend this is if you like a softly sweet romance about two people lightly falling in love while being surrounded by interesting and supportive secondary characters.
Thank you to Sourcebooks Casablanca and NetGalley for an eARC, all thoughts and opinions are my own.