A Defense of Honor is the first novel in Kristi Ann Hunter's new series, Haven Manor, and it is a fabulously crafted story that delves into what it means to forgive, accept forgiveness, and take responsibility for the consequences of one's actions. I thought the plot and overarching storyline were well written and continued important elements of mystery, romance, and suspense that kept me glued to the pages. At times I was even led to tears as Kit and Phoebe's past was revealed and as Kit and Graham both had to deal with the consequences and their own emotions. I thought the characters were interesting and well developed, and I enjoyed watching Graham and Kit learn more about one another and grow closer to God as they challenged one another's beliefs. Overall, I highly enjoyed this novel, and I look forward to reading the next installment in this new series.

I received this novel from Netgalley and Bethany House in exchange for an honest review.

The first thing I said to my hubby after I started reading this book was, "It has been WAY too long since I have read a Kristi Ann Hunter book." I absolutely LOVE her style and voice. The humor infused with the stark realities of life. The faith combined with growth. And the adventures...OH, the adventures these characters have is of epic proportions.

The first thing that stood out to me in this story is the completely new-to-me setting and theme. Although set in Regency England, we spend most of our time outside of London in a forgotten manor. Our leading lady is one who has been scorned by society and lives to protect those who would also be outcasts. I love Kit's passion and heart. She learns so much along her journey and in the end, becomes even more beautiful because of the trust she puts in God. Lord Wharton is swoony on all accounts. His love for the children and for Kit produce such tingling sensations as to set my heart ablaze with admiration.

If you are a fan of Regency books and haven't read a Kristi Ann Hinter book...WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR? If you HAVE read her books...You NEED to get this one in your hands...like yesterday. A Defense of Honor is my favorite KAH story to date and I can't wait to see what she has in store for us next!

I received a complimentary copy of A Defense of Honor through NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.

The Honourable Katherine FitzGilbert (I'm sorry, but the title is British, so it should be Honourable not Honorable) is now known as Mama Kit. She shepherds a group of not-quite-orphans in a forgotten house in the country. Her anonymity and remote seclusion are her weapons, the way she protects those in her charge.

Graham, Viscount Wharton, is bored ... at least, until he notices a beautiful lady in green at a ball, a lady he then rescues before she disappears. He has no idea how to find her again, as he doesn't even know her name. So he's more than a little surprised to come across her in an out-of-the-way almost-abandoned manor house near the small market town of Marlborough.

As first meetings go, Kit and Graham's first meeting is definitely memorable. So is their second.

But it's when they meet in Marlborough that things get interesting. Graham is trying to locate his best friend's missing sister, and he realises Kit must know where she is. But Kit has spent the last twelve years protecting women and hiding their illegitimate children, and she's not about to stop for some random Lord who finds her secret home. No matter how attractive he is.

And the end ... I'm not going to give spoilers, but I am already looking forward to the next book in the series.. A Defence of Honor is the first full-length novel in Kristi Ann Hunter's new Haven Manor series, but it's not the first book. There is a prequel novella, A Search for Refuge, which is available as a free ebook.

It's not necessary to read A Search for Refuge first, although I did, and I can assure you it will provide needed backstory to A Defence of Honor. Recommended for all Regency romance fans, because it's close to perfect. And Kristi Ann Hunter is a wonderful witty writer.

Thanks to Bethany House and NetGalley for providing a free ebook for review

Kit is a woman on a mission.  Her mission often takes her back to London, where she was once known by a different name.  Rather than basking in the spotlight, however, Kit now lurks in the shadows, dealing in dangerous secrets.  During one such foray, she escapes pursuit by ducking into the shadows of a ballroom, where she can't quite escape the attention an observant young gentleman.  

Lord Graham Wharton discovers a mysterious young woman lurking in the shadows near a ballroom terrace door.  Unlike the season's parade of debutantes, whom he finds quite boring, she rebuffs his gentlemanly advances and evades his questions with humor and wit.  His fascination grows as he follows her and witnesses her face down a band of thugs intent upon retrieving something for their master.  Although she is grateful for his timely interference, she refuses his offer to walk her home and slips into the night alone.

When circumstances bring Lord Wharton and Kit back together again, can Kit trust him with her secrets?  Is Wharton an honorable gentleman, or is he yet another careless cad?  Will Kit's true identity and passion for the mission to which she has devoted herself destroy the growing attraction between them? 

Kristi Ann Hunter's newest novel dives below the glitter of Regency era London's ballrooms, addressing some of the aristocracy's ignoble and furtive actions.  She tackles a difficult topic honestly, but graciously, offering readers a perspective often rare in inspirational fiction.  The plot was unique and rather plausible, and the characters were generally likeable. 

In this novel, the author develops a sizable cast of characters who will likely be featured in future books within the series.  While the main characters were developed fairly well, I found some of the lack of character development for the secondary characters a distraction and a detriment.  I understand the author's desire to leave some stones unturned for the next novel.  I wish she would have allowed me to step over them a bit more delicately, though, rather than forcing me to stub my toes upon them repeatedly.  

One of my pet peeves in inspirational fiction is some authors' propensity to conveniently ignore truth in favor of happily ever after.  This can take many forms, such as dialogue or plot lines which are completely inauthentic within the historic context, or (far worse!) flippantly excusing characters' unChrist-like attitudes or immoral actions.  Happily, Ms. Hunter avoids entanglement in these increasingly common pitfalls.  I appreciated the dialogue  which developed fairly naturally between characters.  More importantly, I appreciated her treatment of difficult subject matter.  The characters wrestled with their actions and attitudes in a way which honored Biblical truth without becoming either trite or judgmental. 

I have read at least one or two of Kristi Ann Hunter's other books in the past.  I don't recall having a strong opinion about them, but after reading this novel, I may have to revisit her other works.  I will be watching for the subsequent books in this series. 

I received a free electronic Advance Reader Copy of this book from Bethany House through NetGalley for review purposes.  All opinions contained in this review are my own.

Well, this was certainly a very unusual Regency novel. Not many balls or engagements here, and the book deals with a subject that some might consider very controversial indeed- unmarried mothers and illegitimate children of the nobility.

Basically, Kit and her best friend Daphne who became pregnant outside wedlock, and fled from the censure of 'society' years before acquired a manor house in rural Marlborough, with Daphne and a Frenchwoman called Jess with a colourful past. Haven Manor is used to provide a home for the unwanted illegitimate children of the nobility whom their parents would rather 'disappeared'.

The problem is that whilst Kit wants to help women in the same situation as she was, she depends
on dubious means to support the children, and has developing a bitter and twisted view of men because of her own experiences (having been compromised and disowned years before) and what she has seen of the women they help.
That is until Graham Wharton, the son of an Earl appears unexpectedly on the scene.

The chemistry between the two of them was well-written from the start, and there were some lovely scenes with Graham and the children in the book, making it in someway obvious to the reader and the character that he was the father figure they were lacking.
Graham shows a better way, but still wants to help and his caring and largely non-judgemental attitude is key to moving the story on. Not that he doesn't call out Kit on her faults, he does very much: and many important lessons are learned by both.

There are important messages and themes conveyed in this story about true love, redemption and healing. Its just an very good story on a difficult subject, which is tightly plotted and well-told.
Some might find this novel 'preachy' towards the end, and there is a lot of talk of prayers, but that goes with the territory in this genre.

My main complaints were all the Americanisms in the story. There were just so many, and I found them really jarring and annoying. Nor were they just in the dialogue with the British characters talking about 'going to the store' and 'giving candy' to the children.
It was in the mannerisms as well- there was a reference to Daphne teaching the children life-skills like 'how to hold their fork properly': because they all eat the American way with only a fork, and another reference to a character telling another their tea 'needs more cream'. No, it does not. Tea needs milk, not cream.

This author's works are far from the only Regency or British set novels riddled with Americanisms, but its as issue for me. I mean, I liked the book overall and look forward to the next one (Daphne's story!), but I do wish there was not this need for British characters to talk and act exactly like Americans in British Fiction.
What's wrong with being a little more authentic? I'm sure its not beyond the capacity of American readers to understand different words or mannerisms.

I requested this title from Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are my own.

All of Kit's secrets are at stake when she returns to society, which she left years ago when a scandal ruined her chance for a good marriage. She has since moved on and opened a home for disgraced women and their children.



Lord Graham Wharton's friend is looking for his missing sister, and also thinks that his father is being taken advantage of, paying an exorbitant amount for a chess set. Graham believes that Kit may be the key to the mystery, he follows the clues that lead to Haven Manor and Kit.



Graham is an honorable man, who wants to find a passion and a life purpose. He doesn't want to just be a man about society, partying all the time, and paying calls. He is intrigued by Kit, and admires her care for others. He is great with children, and they absolutely adore him.



Kit still blames herself for what happened years ago, but she and her friend Daphne have worked hard to help women who have been taken advantage of, and given hope to many mothers and children. Kit is clever, brave, and passionate about what she does.



The first in a new series, with great characters, intriguing storyline, and adorable children. I admired Kit and her bravery, facing her fears, and growing in her faith. It took sometime to figure out what was going on, but after that, I was riveted. I'm excited to read the rest of the series!



Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and testimonials in Advertising."

This book was fantastic. I loved the subject matter (unplanned pregnancies) for this time period- definitely rare for christian historical romance. The themes of purpose, forgiveness, penance, redemption, and integrity were steady and natural and gave this story a lot of depth. I could really relate to the struggles the characters were faced with, some I've dealt with personally, and some that were so well done that I felt as though I had.

The romance was sweet and one of the best I've read in a while. At first, I was disappointed and annoyed by what felt like insta-love with no real basis. But if you feel this way too, push on. This book will surprise you.

*Spoiler* The only thing that gave me pause was the adoption was broached as an unheard of concept. I thought adoption was as old as Moses (see what I did there?), so I was a little surprised by this. At any rate, it made me want to look into the subject matter more myself, which is never a bad thing.

Despite the heavier themes, there was a lot of laughter and lighter moments sprinkled throughout and the pages flew by. I would highly recommend this book and cannot wait for the next in this series!

This is a new author for me. She tackled a difficult subject in an earlier time period when there were no easier answers than there are now. The opening was intriguing but difficult to follow at first. It took a while before the story behind the heroine could be fleshed out.

Kit and her friend Daphne along with another woman Jess are running a home for illegitimate children and blackmailing the fathers for payment to support their offspring while assisting the mothers to keep their secrets and re-enter society with none the wiser.

But Kit meets Graham Lord Wharton and her opinion of men is forced to change when he inadvertently discovers where she has hidden herself away and discovers whom the children are and how she is trying to care for them.

Kit tells him of the tragedy that started everything for her and Daphne and about the guilt and shame she carries. He tries to persuade her that how she is going about things is all wrong and that God's grace is sufficient. But Kit has to learn the hard way and their budding romance seems doomed from the start.

This is an entertaining read and the series should be worth following. I recommend it for your summer reading and give it 4 stars. I received this from Bethany House through netgalley for my honest review.

I completely love the journeys I get taken on while reading a book by Kristi Ann Hunter. Anything she writes I know I’ll love reading. A Defense of Honor was a journey unlike any other. I loved getting a glimpse into the shadier part of London. Kit has several constant reminders of the way the search for love can go wrong. The children she loves with her whole heart deserve the best she can provide. Returning to the ballrooms of her past was not part of the plan, nor was running for her life. Graham happened to show up at the perfect time, but now how does she get him to go away? And does she even want him to?

I am anxiously awaiting the next book In this series. I fell In love with the characters and am dying to get to know them even more. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Historical Romance. Graham is a swoon worthy hero, even if Kit doesn’t realize she’s a damsel in distress. I received a copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers and was in no way forced to post a review. All opinions expressed are my own.

I very much enjoyed the first 85% of this book. The opening chapters held the promise of a romance with a little bit of intrigue and quite a bit of fun when Kit caught the eye of Lord Wharton, a viscount who finds himself thoroughly bored by the predictability of his current social life. Working in counterpoint to this light-hearted side of the story is Haven Manor, a place where Kit and her two compatriots, Daphne and Jess, devote their lives to raising children who might have had a very different life if they hadn’t been born on the wrong side of the blanket. These two elements struck a great balance, and I found myself thoroughly enchanted by Graham as he won over the children and slowly chiselled away at Kit’s walls.

As I moved into the second half of the story, I was even more intrigued by the direction it took, throwing in some surprises and giving both Kit and Graham the opportunity to examine their situations in life and their motivation for what they were (or weren’t) doing. I can’t say too much without revealing spoilers, but it included the kind of spiritual thread that made me sit up and take notice—much as it did to Kit and Graham. I do have to say, though, that while I agreed with the spiritual wisdom Graham imparted at one particular point, it did feel a little odd coming out of his mouth. I’m not sure whether it was because it felt a little too modern for the setting or whether it was because it required a deeper spiritual understanding than Graham had shown to that point; maybe a bit of both. But I’ll move on.

The disappointment for me was the ending. It felt rushed, but I also felt Graham was extremely high-handed in the steps that he took to resolve things. His genuine enthusiasm and belief that he was doing the best thing for all concerned tempered my annoyance a little bit, but I couldn’t help feeling indignant on Kit’s behalf. Especially since she didn’t seem indignant at all. I’m pretty sure I would have been if I had been in Kit’s place. And for such a promising beginning to the romance, I felt it fizzled at the end. I enjoyed their relationship more in the middle of the story (and that super sweet first kiss) than I did their relationship at the end.

Finally, 1% of my disappointment is reserved for the Southernisms that crept in, such as using ‘drug’ as the past tense of ‘drag’ and the phrase, “they’re going to try to figure out who all you have contracts with.” I try not to be too critical of Americanisms that creep into English-set novels, but Southernisms tax my tolerance a little too much, not to mention they yank me out of the story (no pun or bipartisanship intended)!

But as I say, I did enjoy the majority of the book, and in light of the developments that took place, I’m keen to see where the next story takes me.

I received a copy of this novel from the publisher. This has not influenced the content of my review, which is my honest and unbiased opinion.

A Defense of Honor

by Kristi Ann Hunter

Bethany House

Bethany House Publishers

Christian

Pub Date 05 Jun 2018

I am reviewing a copy of A Defense of Honor through Bethany House Publishers and Netgalley:

In this book we are transported back to early Nineteenth century England.

Katherine (Kit) FitzGilbert left London Society a decade prior. She was determined never to set foot in the ballroom again. When business takes her to London and she finds herself having to run for her life. It is there she comes upon not only a glamorous ballroom, but also Graham, Lord Wharton. It should have only been a chance encounter but it becomes far more as Graham searches for his missing sister. He is convinced Kit knows far more about the girl than she is telling.

Meeting Graham has Kit wishing things could have been different for the first time in her life. What she wants doesn’t matter though, because long ago she dedicated herself to saving women escape the same scorn that drove her from London, and raising the children who had been caught in the middle. As much as she wants to tell Graham the truth she can’t without putting him and everyone she loves in danger.

This novel gives us a glimpse into what can sometimes be the darker side of privilege and royalty.

I give A Defense of Honor five out of five stars!

Happy Reading!

A Defense Of Honor, what a story. I mean when you have the beginning made up of boredom, plants, ballroom dancing and secrets you know you have a hit on your hands. The book only got better and better from that point on - if you can believe that. There is mystery - not in the sense you may think - like murder - just a plain - straight up - mystery that Graham is trying to figure out. Will he? GOD fits right on in here - but how? Well let me tell you - HE - - - - I cann0t ruin this book for you - it is worth the read to find out..

Kristi Ann Hunter tackles a topic that is often brushed over in Regency fiction. We read about the ton, the balls, parties & dinners, and even the scandals. But rarely do we read about what happens to those whose lives are ruined when the men of the upper echelon of society cast them away.

A Defense of Honor, the first book in The Haven Manor series, introduces readers to three women who refuse to forget or ignore the women and children who need to disappear.

After a close call of her own twelve years ago, Kit FitzGilbert pours her life into caring for those society would rather forget (after a run through the ton gossip mill, of course). Perhaps her methods are not the best, but her heart is in the right place. On one of her trips to London to secure funds for the manor, Kit meets Graham (aka Lord Wharton).

In an attempt to forget about an intriguing woman he’d learned little about, Graham sets out on a mission to find the sister of one of his friends. What he doesn’t expect is to run into that same woman who has been on his mind in the country.

Graham is a likable character from the beginning—charming, a little bit of a flirt, and someone who holds family and friends in esteem. And the first time he interacts with a child, I was smitten.
As Graham digs to uncover Kit’s secrets, and she struggles with handing control of the women and children she assists over to God, the two find a mutual admiration for the other.

In usual Hunter style, laughter and smiles are mixed in with heavier moments of questioning, disappointment, and concern.

Shining a light on both the trial and joys of helping those less fortunate, A Defense of Honor reminds readers that caring for even one person less fortunate than us makes a difference. The ending of Kit and Graham’s story is perfection while whetting my reading appetite for more about Daphne and Jess, the two women who help Kit run Haven Manor.

Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including NetGalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

This is one of my first books by Kristi and I am blown away! I really, really, love her writing. This book feels very differ from the other one I have read but this works so, so well. I feel like in this book the characters were beautifully written and vivid. The plot was imaginative and grasps you from the start. 

I loved the ending to this novel and adored the underlying message. This book gives us good morals without being pushy and shows them in a creative way. The characters were well developed and grow throughout the novel. There was pleasant humor that shined through out this book that gave me a good laugh here and there and helped transition scenes well. The dialogue was also well written and was not a tedious read.

I would say that overall this is a 5/5 stars novel for me. I cant say enough good things about the book! I definitely recommend reading this novel ASAP! Thank you NetGalley and Bethany House for sending me this e-copy in exchange for an honest review.

A Defense of Honor by Kristi Ann Hunter

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

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Story Notes

Kristi Ann Hunter delivers the first book in her new Recency series Haven Manor with a story filled with witty conversations and a challenge to one’s idea of real trust in God.

When I receive a book by Kristi Ann Hunter I can be assured of two inclusions: that I will laugh a lot and I will find myself pondering her faith challenge even after I finish the last page. It takes a special talent to be able to write humor well into a story that could very easily be dark given the subject matter, and Ms. Hunter proves once again that she absolutely possesses this talent. She begins the story perfectly with a scene taking place in the ballroom of one of London’s Ton. Graham, Lord Wharton, has tired of the never ending balls that fill the typical London season just as he has tired of the same eligible, yet lacking personality, debutantes vying for the richest men. He has almost convinced himself to leave when a strange sight catches his eye, sparking laughter and curiosity. A hand reaches from a gathering of potted plants to snag passing drinks and delicacies, a hand belonging to a woman Graham has never before seen. Kit FitzGilbert is in London to secure the future of a woman and child under her care and has taken a moment before she attends to business to enjoy the sights, sounds and tastes of a ballroom once again. Never intending to be noticed, she is surprised when a very handsome gentleman speaks to her from the area behind her hiding spot. Lord Wharton is everything Kit used to admire in the peers of the Ton and his unexpected kindness and humorous conversation are a welcome respite from her daily battle to ensure the care of those under her roof. But this pleasant interlude is not to last, given Kit must quickly do as she came to do and leave London before anyone can follow her home. Graham was intrigued by Kit and her straightforward way of speaking and determines to find out more about her. But first he must help his friend locate his “missing” sister, Priscilla, that no one is willing to share information about. As Graham sets out on his mission to bring Priscilla home, he stumbles upon Kit’s hidden residence on the outskirts of the village of Marlborough, Wiltshire. Kit has spent the past decade housing the illegitimate children of London’s society while also seeking to help their mothers find solace and hope through their situation. She views her work as a mercy mission and as a way to pay penance for her past mistakes. When Graham appears at her home after helping two of the children in her care, she is hard pressed not to throw him out immediately, regardless of the pouring rain. But as the rain refuses to quit for several hours, Graham will be trapped at Haven Manor for the next couple days. The forced time together gives both Kit and Graham a chance to get to know each other better, but Kit is unwilling to let herself fall for another man, no matter how honorable or handsome. Graham, meanwhile, learns that Kit may have the information on Priscilla he needs and although he is angry at her unwillingness to help him locate her, he does admire her tenacity and protectiveness. When Graham sets off to follow a lead when the water recedes, he will carry with him his deep admiration of Kit and her work and vows to return soon. But their journey towards love will be put to the test when Graham finds out how Kit is financing the care of the orphans and he will give her an ultimatum if she wants them to have a future. Kit will have to decide if she is going to live the words she teaches the children about trusting God or if she is going to keep doing things her own way. And her decision will have to be made quickly if she is going to salvage both her relationship with Graham and a home for the orphans. Ms. Hunter does a wonderful job of drawing readers into the world she has written and creates a connection with her characters that readers will truly enjoy. While each character epitomizes the phrasing and actions of someone belonging to the Regency era, there is no mistaking the real faith challenges that are just as prevalent in people today. Ms. Hunter describes a world that has little care for those who don’t “fit in” the box of acceptable society and shows the incredible compassion that must be employed to extend help to those deemed “illegitimate” through no fault of their own. She rightly places the blame on those who carelessly created the lives which are now seen as worthless while illustrating that these little ones are of the same worth to God as children born inside a marriage. I was pleased to see as well that Ms. Hunter did not allow Kit to continue in her well-meaning but incorrect approach to the care of the orphans. While making those responsible for their conception pay for their care is an admirable goal, blackmail is not the way to ensure this happens. How good it was to see that Ms. Hunter had her character learn the important lesson of trusting God for our needs rather than seeking sinful ways of meeting them. I was further pleased with the quiet but amusing romance between the main characters. Their conversations often carried such hilarious phrases that I found myself laughing out loud as I read. I’ve no idea which excellent character Ms. Hunter will turn her pen focus to next but I am excited to find out. She has begun her series well and I am certain she will continue will her wonderful writing in the next stories to come. I will certainly be recommending this book to others as I’m sure they will find it as enjoyable as I have. I will also be keeping a close eye out for the next book in the Haven Manor series as I know it will be another engaging story.

I received this E-Book free of charge from Bethany House Publishers via NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review. I will receive no fiscal compensation from either company for this review and the opinions expressed herein are entirely my own.

My favorite thing about this book is the contrast of personalities between Kit and Graham. They both have so much to learn from each other and both bring a new and fresh perspective to their friendship and relationship. Graham's cheerful and light-hearted nature brings joy to the children and the women who care for them. Kit's mission and purpose shows Graham a serious side to the consequences of society's dictates and he admires her determination to work towards solutions. There is some danger and suspense as long-held secrets come to light, and Kit learns over time to do the right thing and trust God to provide solutions as she turns her cares over to Him. There is conflict that comes between Kit and Graham, but I loved what ultimately brings them together as they continue to pursue ways to help those in need. Loving this new series!!!

(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)

Props for the original storyline! I loved that I haven't read a story like this in all my regencies. I enjoyed Kit's character, I would have liked to know her backstory a littler earlier on in the story, but otherwise thought it was a fun read. Looking forward to more books in this series.

"A Defense of Honor" is a Christian romance set in 1816 in England. Realistic, complex characters and vivid setting details immersed me into the story. I cared about the characters and understood why they acted the way they did. The romantic couple inspired each other to be better people and had shared interests to sustain their attraction. I love this type of story, which has real struggles without making the reader depressed. Rather, the characters find healing and freedom.

Kit pushed her shy friend into doing something that resulted in her seduction while also ruining Kit's reputation. Cast from society, Kit and her friend have found a way to save other women from the same fate while also providing a home for the resulting children. Kit's guilt runs deep, and she helps other women as a way to earn the forgiveness of her friend and God. She struggles to accept that they've already forgiven her. She also struggles with trusting God to provide for their needs.

There was no sex or bad language. Overall, I'd highly recommend this enjoyable and moving story.

Defense of Honor is the first of the series Haven Manor. I would recommend reading the novella A Search for Refuge to get a little more background. It’s definitely a stand alone though. In the novella we hear about Kit briefly, Defense of Honor tells her story along with why she works at Haven Manor. In the beginning we meet Graham, a future Earl who is looking for purpose in his life. By odd chance, him and Kit meet and he is captivated by her. Although I am a fan of this author, I felt the story line was too drawn out and some details could have been left out. Kit as a character was hesitant and scared due to the scandal she faced years ago which made it hard to open up to Graham. I did love that she had a desire to help these women even if her intentions were not right. I did like Graham’s character, he was charming and really changed Kit’s opinion of how she felt about men in general. Clean content with some religious references. Will I continue to read from this author? Yes. This book was not a fave for me. 3.5 stars

When Katherine "Kit" FitzGilbert turned her back on London society more than a decade ago, she determined never to set foot in a ballroom again. But when business takes her to London and she's forced to run for her life, she stumbles upon not only a glamorous ballroom but also Graham, Lord Wharton. What should have been a chance encounter becomes much more as Graham embarks on a search for his friend's missing sister and is convinced Kit knows more about the girl than she's telling.

After meeting Graham, Kit finds herself wishing things could have been different for the first time in her life, but what she wants can't matter. Long ago, she dedicated herself to helping women escape the same scorn that drove her from London and raising the innocent children caught in the crossfire. And as much as she desperately wishes to tell Graham everything, revealing the truth isn't worth putting him and everyone she loves in danger.

I'm not sure how to describe this book. It showed the plight of fallen women in London society. Their life and that of their child was worthless. The father's went on as if nothing had happened. It was quite an eye opener. This book was a romance with just a tad of mystery.

I wouldn't consider this a light read. But it was good.

I was given this book by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.