When Jane Bancroft married Hayden Fitzwalter, Earl of Ramsey all she knew of love could fit in a teacup. She was certain they loved each other and innocently felt that would be enough to make a wonderful life together. Three miscarriages later with Hayden lost in his cups and tangled up with the same wastrals he's known since his school days Jane realizes even her hopes have died. She removes herself to her family home with her younger sister, feeling even if she is no good as a wife she can provide a safe place for Emma, who has changed for the worse since being sent off to school.

After a few years separation when Jane realizes their marriage is truly dead and Hayden must have an heir, Jane sends off a letter offering divorce. The last thing she expects is to find a very bedraggled Hayden showing up at the door to Barton Park.

In book one in the Bancrofts of Barton Park series Amanda McCabe introduces us to a pair of sisters who grew up in a slightly unconventional home, unprepared emotionally for London society or for finishing school where they are individually thrust after the death of their parents. Unlike many historical romances, the bulk of the book is not centered on the couple winning each other into matrimony but on the healing of a struggling marriage, the revelation of their pasts (particularly Hayden's) and how difficult it is to change even when that change is fervently desired. Add the mystery and danger of a hidden treasure and a truly distasteful man and McCabe has created an enjoyable romance with a different focus than most.

The book is sprinkled with flashbacks to the earlier days of Jane and Hayden's marriage. Although I generally do not like that technique, in this case they were a positive addition to the book, providing a window on the joy at the beginning of the marriage and the pain each partner felt as it was damaged.

I liked Jane and Hayden's characters enough to want their happy ever after, but I confess I am truly eager to read Emma's story. Her serious pursuit of botanical and zoological specimens and her ramshackle disregard for the folderols of dress and comportment are much more enticing to me. I am eagerly awaiting book two.

Book Summary

Wed to wickedness

In Society's eyes, Hayden Fitzwalter, Earl of Ramsay and Jane Bancroft have the perfect marriage. But what can't be seen are the secrets hidden behind closed doors. Believing Hayden will never renounce his dissolute ways, Jane flees to her family's dilapidated estate in the country.

Years later, Hayden now longs to win back the only woman who has ever touched his heart. But first he has to convince her that this rogue is ready to be tamed…

BANCROFTS OF BARTON PARK

Two sisters, two scandals, two sizzling love affairs

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