sstaley
Main character Nelle is endearing from the get go. Even though she comes from a wealthy, privileged family, she is kind, sweet and good. When the worst tragedy happens to her with her parents deaths she keeps a stiff upper lip and endures things well.Having to go live with an aunt who seems to dislike her and a cousin who is somewhat of a snob, makes things difficult for Nelle.
Soon Nelle meets two people, one she knew years ago and a new friend from town. She renews her acquaintance with Mathew Janson, who unfortunately is the soon to be finance' of her cousin. As they spend more time together they both soon realize there is something there romantically, but they both try to dismiss their feelings. Honestly I felt for both of them being stuck in this awkward situation, but still, little by little falling hopelessly in love with each other.
The second person she met in town was non other than our friend from the other books, Pearl, the Chinese Matchmaker that we've met before in the other books from this series. Pearl's wisdom, kindness, and compassion help Nelle through the loss of her parents, her current living situation with her aunt and giving her the courage to explore her feelings for Mathew.
The story played out much as I had hoped and has an expected happy ending. I loved reading about Nelle's journey in finding love. Despite the sadness in Nelle's life, there are so many things that finally bring happiness back to her. This emotion filled book is a wonderful read and one of the best romances I've read so far in 2016. This book can be read alone or in order as part of the series, but I highly recommend that you read it!