This is book 4 in Sadie’s The Shadows series – it follows Sebastian, the Marquess of Roth, who has come to London under duress. He is forced to join high society and will do so under his terms. He brings with him his niece Victoria who he is trying to secure a good happy marriage for. The second part of our romance equation is Lady Lavinia Birch. She is in dire need of help as her father is dying and her new guardian wishes to marry her off to the highest bidder.

Lavinia turned out to be one of my favourite heroines. She was heartbroken that the man she had loved married her best friend, but she didn’t ever hate her friend or lash out. Not only that but her life was filled with abuse, but she didn’t let it break her. She was so strong in such a real way and rather than lash out or turn bitter because of these things it just meant she did the opposite, caring for others and giving everything of herself to help. She was kind and caring and didn’t know her worth.

In comes Sebastian… he was flirtatious and patient and strong and holds in his temper to think things through. I adored all of their interactions and the evolution of their relationship was beautiful. Sebastian is infatuated with her, and he helps her to see her as he does, he is so patient and genuine and understanding. And Lavinia ends up finding a love she never could never have imagined as well as more faith in herself.

Seeing Lavinia through Sebastian’s eyes had me falling for him more each time – I really loved that because Sebastian was one to think things through, he was able to understand Lavinia and her actions with a view of the wider picture, with what her life has put her through and with what society forces its women to be. There was no miscommunication because he understood which was so beautiful and refreshing!

I adored the side characters and the overarching plot with the reasonings that pushed Lavinia and Sebastian together. Victoria was a delight, and I am very much hoping to hear more about what happened to her! As I have read all the books in this series it was great to finally get Lavinia’s story after having met her before, as well as to see more of the other women – I am highly intrigued about what the ending of this set up and can’t wait to see the series continue.

I have read every book by Bosque since her first novella and I have loved each one. She delivers compelling characters, intriguing plots and irresistible romances. I know I will never be disappointed and always love picking up a new book by Sadie as I just know she’ll sweep me away with yet another amazing story. I would highly recommend any book by this author! This one specifically was a delight, a little less dark than some of the others in this story but equally as gripping. If you’re looking for a book you can binge with characters to pull you in, then look no further!