The Rogue to Ruin - Vivienne Lorret

Written by Vivienne Lorret
Read by Justine Eyre
Format: MP3
Bitrate: 64 Kbps
Unabridged

Misadventures in Matchmaking, book 3
Publisher: HarperAudio
Release date: July 30, 2019
Duration: 10:58:41

The Bourne Matrimonial Agency has one rule: Never fall in love with a client, which shouldn’t be a problem when one’s faking an engagement to the rogue across the street . . .

Ainsley Bourne needs the family business to succeed. But one obstacle stands in her way—Reed Sterling, the huge, handsome, former prize fighter and owner of the gaming hell across the street. His scandalous customers scare off all her marriage-minded patrons and since the devilish brute has no intention of relocating, she sets out to ruin his unsavory establishment. Yet when a vile suitor from her past reappears, Ainsley hastily claims an attachment to the first man who comes to mind . . . Mr. Sterling, to be exact.
Reed doesn’t know who is more surprised by Miss Bourne’s declaration. She clearly hates him, and he’d never admit their arguments simmer with unrequited attraction. Something about the pleading look in her eyes calls to Reed, and against his better judgment, he quickly plays the part of the besotted fiancé.

Pretending to be in love requires a convincing charade. But with each tantalizing touch and every scandalous kiss, Ainsley starts to wonder if Reed was ever really the enemy at all.

The third Misadventures in Matchmaking series title is just as delightful as the first two, with a slightly darker subtext that only makes its effervescence more uplifting. Another clever, charming historical romance from Lorret.

VERDICT This third and final book in the series (after Ten Kisses to Scandal) is filled with delicious, fiery dialog between Ainsley and Reed, making readers who enjoy smart and witty historicals such as Tessa Dare’s “Spindle Cove” series long for that first kiss and our enemies-to-lovers’ happily ever after. This makes up for some of the secondary characters and plot points that occasionally fall a bit flat comparatively, resulting in a satisfying conclusion to a clever and engaging series.—