At Last Comes Love

Mary Balogh continues her series about the Huxtable Family with this story about the eldest daughter Margaret. After the early death of their parents Margaret has raised her siblings until the youngest brother, the new Earl of Merton, comes of age. Margaret, a formerly poor vicar's daughter but also a beauty, had lots of proposals of marriage but has declined all so far, because of her love for her siblings and a longtime infatuation with a neighbouring boy. Now, at the age of 30 and her siblings grown up, she must think of her own life. Will she be an all time spinster in her brother's household or live a life of her own? Her decision is quickly made when provoked by the absolutely condescending behaviour of the object of her former infatuation: Margaret tells him of her (nonexisting) betrothal. Now there is only one problem left - where can she quickly find a presentable fiancé? At her next ball she literally bumps into him, the dark not even handsome Duncan Pennethorne, Earl of Sheringford. After a substantial scandal five years ago, his grandfather has finally cut him off of all funds and threatens to give Duncan's beloved home estate to a cousin instead. For Duncan there is only one minute chance left: he has to marry a respectable lady within a fortnight. But how can that be done? Margaret does not want a commitment for life, she is simply glad to have a newfound fiancé to present to her former lover, who in turn initiates the fast spreading news about her betrothal all over town. Now Duncan and Margaret must make up their minds: either marry a complete stranger within 13 days or cause a(nother) scandal. As usual Mary Balogh creates forceful characters, an interesting plot, and a secret, that takes care of suspense. And of course there is love somewhere......