Hardly a Gentleman by Eloisa James

Clara has just been embarrassed in front of all society. It's just too bad that the man who embarrassed her is married. And the prince. It seems like her reputation will never recover. Her mother shows no surprise. Clara has been just a little odd since she was a child. She always liked books and, let's not even bring up her large bosoms. So, Clara's being shipped off to Scotland. Not forever. Although it could be. Just until her mother can show her face around ballrooms again. She never thought that she'd decide to hop in a carriage and pretend to be a housekeeper. Named Mrs. Potts no less.

Caelen just wants to live his life. His wife died and he just keeps moving on, ignoring the dust and grime gathering in his castle. That includes fishing naked. And that's how Clara sees him first. While it's not exactly love at first sight, Caelen does start proposing to Clara pretty quickly. He's sick of everyone thinking that he's a grieving widower so he's willing to get married. Not to the first woman who shows up but to the first one who doesn't seem to be there to try and become his wife. In fact, Clara refuses all the way up until the time that someone recognizes her and they're forced to wed. This, of course, not only lets them slake their lust for each other, but gives them time to fall in love. 

This book was darn enjoyable and reminded me why James is a master in the craft of romance. 

Four stars

Accidental Brides #2

This book came out April 29, 2025

Follows Viscount in Love

ARC kindly provided by Avon and  Harper Voyager, and NetGalley

Opinions are my own