Bryson Courtland, Viscount Rainsleigh, wants nothing more than his cruel father to be a distant memory. After rebuilding the reputation of the Rainsleigh name Bryson is ready to find a suitable bride above reproach. When he is invited to a house party he falls instantly for the beautiful, mysterious Lady Elisabeth Hamilton-Baythes. He believes she will make the perfect bride. But when Bryson hears rumors of Elisabeth and his father he lets his temper runaway with him. And his mistake may mean losing the only woman he's ever loved.

THE VIRGIN AND THE VISCOUNT is the second book in Charis Michaels' The Bachelor Lords of London series. The story is lighthearted, and an easy read with surprising and familiar characters. Bryson is a wonderful hero with a troubled past that doesn't always bring out the best in him. However, he shows compassion and growth throughout the story, and his desire to be a decent person who treats others well will appeal to readers. Elisabeth also has a troubled past, and this makes her confident and fearful. The conflict might have been resolved sooner if Elisabeth had triumphed over her fear in the first place, but this did allow her to grow and accept herself, which readers will appreciate. Bryson and Elisabeth together, at times, are a frustrating couple as their misconceptions and fears often get in the way of a true relationship. But readers will also be rooting for them to succeed, because they fit rather well together.

Michaels has not forgotten characters from the first book, and readers will be delighted when the Marchioness of Frinfrock makes an appearance, and as usual she is filled with spunk and wit that will have readers laughing out loud. Elisabeth's aunt Lillian is a wonderful addition to the story as are Stoker and Bryson's brother, Beau. The conflicts bring the characters closer together and help them grow, and a few plot twists, like cousin Kenneth, will have readers eagerly turning pages. THE VIRGIN AND THE VISCOUNT is a delightful romance and an enjoyable read.

Book Summary

American heiress Piety Grey is on the run. Suddenly in London and facing the renovation of a crumbling townhouse, she’s determined to make a new life for herself—anything is better than returning to New York City where a cruel mother and horrid betrothal await her. The last thing she needs is a dark, tempting earl inciting her at every turn…

Trevor Rheese, the Earl of Falcondale, isn’t interested in being a good neighbor. After fifteen years of familial obligation, he’s finally free. But when the disarmingly beautiful Piety bursts through his wall—and into his life—his newfound freedom is threatened…even as his curiosity is piqued.

Once Piety’s family arrives in London, Falcondale suddenly finds himself in the midst of a mock courtship to protect the seductive woman who’s turned his world upside down. It’s all for show—or at least it should be. But if Falcondale isn’t careful, he may find a very real happily ever after with the woman of his dreams…