***ARC Provided by Berkley Publishing Group***
Ariana and Kynaston had, I think, the potential to be a lot more interesting than they ultimately were, which is a shame as I had high hopes for this title, especially as this is the last book by Jo Beverly.
There was a lot going on here, with scandals in papers, running off to elope, brothers who don't want to marry, trips to London, and attempts to marry off a woman who is nearing (if not already) at an age where she would be considered a spinster.
Merely a Marriage is Jo Beverley's last book. Unfortunately, it fell short.
Loved Beverley's books over many years, and am saddened by her passing. That having been said - this novel is too long - the first two hundred pages basically comprise ten days of the (morose) hero and (scheming) heroine becoming reacquainted and bickering their way to an abrupt declaration of devotion and a rushed ending.
I am much saddened by this beloved author's passing, and it is doubly unfortunate that this story is simply quite dull. It took great effort for me to finish it because almost nothing happens - most of the pages are filled with Ariana's inner monologues.
The problem was not enough to sustain the story, so despite having adult characters it dragged on a bit. (Her problem -- she was tall.
Lady Ariana Boxstall is frightened. She's afraid that if her somewhat reckless brother doesn't marry and produce an heir soon, that he'll end up dead and she and her mother will be left in the hands of a cruel cousin.
Jo Beverley was a prolific author of romance novels until she died in 2016. I believe this is her last book.
Huge thanks to Berkley Publishing Group for providing me with an ARC for review
Merely a Marriage, Jo Beverley's last novel, promises a second chance romance, hijinks, and charm. In actuality, Merely a Marriage was none of those things.
Merely a Marriage by Jo Beverley is not merely a book: It is the final book by a beloved, iconic author of the genre. I'm happy to say that this swan song is a fitting closure to an illustrious career.
See my review at Reading World.
Very disappointed in this Jo Beverly story. Every scene in the story seemed to be contrived.
Ariana Boxstall is tall. That seems to be the most important aspect of this story along with big feet.
This is a lively Regency tale, with a charming heroine, a captivating hero, and lots of twists and turns in the plot. It may take a few liberties with the manners of the day, but overall it is a fitting final book for an author of historical romances.
Http://freshfiction.com/review.
