This book has such an interesting concept that I knew I definitely wanted to pick it up and I was not disappointed. Sophie Barnes has crafted an interesting romance with many well know tropes but she has made it feel fresh and new. Barnes' slow burn romance is well paced, has an easy and charming tone, and has compelling characters that keep the reader engaged. This is Barnes' last full length installment in her Diamonds in the Rough series and it did not disappoint!
This romance focuses on the hero, Marcus, who is a disgraced Viscount who has lost his title and standing in society due to his Father's evil actions (his father was a convicted murderer and was hung for his crimes and his estate and title were dissolved). Marcus has spent the last eight years rebuilding his life and becoming a very successful eye surgeon. Louise, the heroine, has been out in society for a few years with no real suitors. She has had cataracts since she was really young and undergone many eye surgeries that have just been temporary fixes. When she meets Marcus by accident she learns that there might be another solution to her eye problems and she becomes very interested in pursuing this new option, even through her father forbids her from having any relation with Marcus.
I found the overall premise to this story to be very refreshing, new and lively. Yes I have read books with a blind heroine or one who needed glasses, and yes I have read stories of a disgraced gentleman who skirts society but with the element of Marcus' career and Louise's need for eye surgery, Barnes has given these romance tropes a new spin. I loved watch Louise step into her own, learn how to stand up for herself against her father, and find agency to go after what she wants and needs. It was really lovely to watch Marcus and Louise grow respect, trust and love for each other through out the eye surgery and recovery process. Louise trust Marcus because he is up front with her and gives her all of the facts and makes sure she is aware every step of the way, and she is so delighted that he gives her this information so she can made well educated decisions around what she wants. They both also learn a lot about the other and are able to help each other equally which is such a delightful way to watch them build a friendship.
Much of the conflict around this slow burn romance deals with Marcus' status in society and how he is the son of a murderer. Louise and Marcus have to fight Louise's father's objections around this as well as Marcus' hesitations. Because of this we see Louise, who started this novel more like a wallflower, really show her back bone and strength of will. I liked that Louise felt strong in her love and was not afraid to take certain leaps on her road to happiness.
This is such a delightful novel and addition to Barnes' series, I would definitely recommend, this can be read as a standalone but this series also has some really lovely additions that are worth the read.
Book Releases: September 21, 2021
***I received an eArc through NetGalley from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.***