1🌶️ euphemisms

I LOVED this book!  I couldn’t stop reading it! I felt the emotions and struggles of the characters, the tugs and pulls in different directions, everything. It sucked me in so powerfully!

This book had such twists and turns. It honestly surprised me! It wasn’t where I thought the book would go.  This seems to be common with Mimi Matthews’ writing. She takes books places that I have never seen before! And it has created a joy in reading her books, because I know I could never guess where it is going!

Julia is a daughter of two parents who are constantly ill (I think they may be hypochondriacs, but that’s not confirmed). They are overbearing and have allowed blood-letting of their daughter far too many times. I relate to her struggle with anxiety, especially in social situations. Her desire to withdraw to her room and escape is relatable!

Jasper is a war hero that is followed by rumors and stories that don’t seem to match the man himself. He is searching for a wife of fortune to help secure the futures of his three children.

This book is on the heavier side as far as spice level. It is closed door, however there is one fade to black scene between the couple. Their growing physical attraction is discussed often, but not in a graphic or inappropriate way. I thought it was tastefully done. 

If you like marriage of convenience, beauty and the beast vibes, and lots of romance, then this book is for you! I definitely recommend this book if you like regency but want something a little different than the norm! It can be read as a standalone, but I think is best enjoyed as a part of the series!

Content Warnings:

Language: None

Spice: Level 2.5

TW: Over-bearing parents, war descriptions (mild), struggles with anxiety, occultism briefly mentioned (not credited)

When I first started reading, I wondered how their romance would progress, because I thought the timid introverted Julia wouldn't be compatible with the brooding presence of the scandalous hero, Jasper. Opposite attracts so maybe they'd find attraction through that... But the more I read the more I realized they were perfectly matched, perfectly destined for each other. Julia craved adventure despite her anxiety while Jasper, who could offer her peace for her anxiety, and an opportunity for her wanderlust, was so open-minded and accepting of her quirks. Reading the secrets later on just made their whole relationship fit perfectly destined like jigsaw puzzles. I loved that they started out as friends (despite Jasper's first attraction towards her). And loved even more the little details of how lovingly caring Jasper was and how Julia notices them because she knew not to judge appearances and to believe his words and actions instead. And boy, does Jasper proclaim his love and affection with such heart-fluttering expressions and actions. 
Another thing I liked was the tragic drama of it all for Julia back in Belgrave and when Jasper whisked her away, I was so curious how the havoc and gossip unfolded after they left. 

Later on when Jasper's final secret was revealed I felt awfully sad at how he'd have to live with such a secret the rest of his life... Can't imagine the pain he felt too. But we win some and lose some I guess. I'm glad to read their happily ever, regardless. They both deserve it.

This is my first book from Mimi Matthews, and I was tempted to read the second book instead of the first in this series because I thought Julia was very relatable character from the synopsis. I enjoyed this book a lot more because of her relatable character. But after experiencing the wonderful writing and suspense in various drama throughout the story, I am very inclined to read the rest of the series and Mimi Matthews' other works as well!