The death of her mother put Charlotte Carstairs into a bind. The only living relative she and her siblings had was their grandfather, a man who had disowned them years ago. Even though it stuck in her craw, Charlotte was determined to do her duty and fulfill her mother’s last wish by delivering them to grandfather’s doorsteps. 

Major Jack Griffin spotted Charlotte and her brood the minute they swept into town. When he learned they planned to head to Thurston Hall, he headed home in all haste to turn them away. The old man had died years ago and any obligations had died with him. Jack refused to spend his days pandering to anyone but himself. As an ex-soldier with scars and a passion for drink, he didn’t have room in his life for them. 

But things don’t go as planned. An attack left Charlotte injured. While she healed, he plotted ways to evict them. As they argued about the future, he hit upon the perfect solution – if she could turn around the estate, she could stay. Though daunted by the impossible task before her, Charlotte refused to admit defeat. And the more time they spent together, the more the attraction grew. Jack didn’t know if he could forget his past and his scars enough to open his heart. But when their lives were put in danger, he realized he would do anything to keep them safe. 

Although I liked the story and the great regency detail, the writing distanced me from experiencing the characters full range of emotions. Jack made a great hero, turning from a scoundrel to a loving man. Very well done. Charlotte was a little harder to understand. She said one thing then acted in a totally different way. It became a bit confusing at times. Too much arguing between the characters dulled the enjoyment of the story. In the end, however, everything balanced out, leaving me with a positive feeling. If you love regencies, don't miss out on Lord Thurston's Challenge.

December 30, 2007