The Bargain by Mary Jo Putney

Lady Jocelyn Kendal needs a man. Preferably one not long for this earth. Her father's convoluted will left her all of his money but only if she married by the time she turned 25... and that birthday is fast approaching. She needs more time to convince a certain duke that she could be his perfect woman. 

While visiting the local veteran's hospital, she meets Major David Lancaster, a very nice man who is on his deathbed. And it seems that the major has a sister that he is worried about. In exchange for an immediate marriage, Jocelyn will support his sister. It's a win-win situation. At least, it is until David doesn't die. 

I liked that David and Jocelyn were both perfectly decent people, each caught up in circumstances that were not of their own making. Their romance is fine but I REALLY liked the B romance between David's managing sister and the surgeon who saves his life. A little bland in places but overall an enjoyable read. 

Three stars

Followed by Petals in the Storm

This book came out October 1st, 1999

Borrowed as an ebook from CloudLibrary

Opinions are my own