I will not lie. It took me a long time to NOT be let down by the revelation of who 'Cousin Michael' is. Then I saw the announcement of her new book due out next year and I called forgiveness.

My main question was, why didn't we see more lead up? I went back through the novels (and third time), but other then some vague references to her discomfort around the guy who turns out to be Cousin Michael, I didn't see the chemistry. At least not until it was pushed under my nose.

I can't tell if that's playing it really close to the vest or the possibility that he-who-is-Cousin-Michael was no the original intended. I really would have guessed an altogether different man.

As expected nearly everyone from the other novels (and novellas) makes an appearance in some shape or form. It was entertaining to revisit with some and catch up on what was happening with them. The girls seemed less like former pupils (or teachers) and more like Charlotte's extended family. They worry about her, rally for her, try to do what they can...the affection is genuine.

What was finally decided to be done with 'Cousin Michael', once the charade was over with at least, seemed fitting. The man who is Cousin Michael almost grew on me, but some of his previously bad ideas, as well as the whole handling of Charlotte finding out about who he really was, made me wary overall. ( )

Wed Him Before You Bed Him
4.5 Stars

Series note: This is the last book in the series and readers are finally rewarded with the revelation of "Cousin Michael's" identity as well as the reason for his anonymity. While there are references to characters and events from previous books, it is actually only necessary to read book #1 to fully appreciate this one.

An excellent conclusion to the series.

Charlotte and David's second chances romance is very engaging. They have intense chemistry and their interactions, both physical and emotional, are incredible. The flashback scene detailing their initial relationship is seamlessly integrated within the story and provides significant insight into their character development. The only minor issue for me is the length of their separation - 18 years is a seriously long time!

The minor mystery revolving around the death of David's wife is compelling although it isn't difficult to guess the ultimate explanation.

All in all, a fantastic read and I look forward to continuing with the spin-off series - The Hellions of Halstead Hall with the first book focusing on David's friend, the disreputable Lord Stoneville. ( )

I grabbed this from Bookbub before I realized it's the last book in the series, but it still worked as a stand-alone. I suspect it might have been better if I had read the others in the series, but it was just okay for me.
This is a second-chance romance. Charlotte and David were briefly betrothed very young until a misunderstanding drives them apart. Now in their mid-thirties, she's the headmistress of her own school and he's a wealthy viscount. He's trying to support the school anonymously, but after his wife dies he makes the effort to see Charlotte again.
It's a quick read and okay with a murder plot and some other drama to add to the story, but there seemed very little romance and a lot of lust. ( )

Loved finally learning about Cousin Michael! A great wrapup of this series. ( )

This book was enjoyable, and a relatively fast read. I read it in one day. I think she could have gone more in depth with the characters, especially David, and the ending seemed kind of rushed, but it was certainly worth reading, and a good conclusion to the series. ( )