A Night Like This (Smythe-Smith Quartet, #2)

by Julia Quinn

[kimbacaffeinate]

I love a good Regency romance, and when the author adds in a little suspense and deliciously fleshed out characters the world around me fades away. A Night Like This by Julia Quinn was such a tale. Quinn delivered a wonderful story, with colorful characters and dangerous suspense that had me flipping the pages. Mini review: romantic, suspenseful and incredibly delicious.

The Earl of Winstead returns to London on the eve of the Smythe-Smith musical, and not wanting to upstage his sisters, he hides in the wings while they perform. It is here that he spies the pianist, Anne Wynter, and from that moment he knows only one thing; he will kiss her. Anne Wynter is the governess, and the Earl is the first man in a long time that has captured her attention, but she cannot risk being discovered. The tale that unfolds was wonderfully paced, filled with humor, tender moments and a suspenseful twist that held me captive as I searched for my happily-ever-after.

I truly enjoy Regency romances and love flawed, fleshed out characters and Quinn delivered a hero and heroine that I adored. Anne Wynter is bright, has an excellent sense of humor and is quite good in her role as governess. Daniel, the Earl of Winstead has not had an easy go of it, especially after events that forced to leave the country. I loved the little back-story regarding those events and his return. He is immediately smitten with Anne, and I love that he can see beyond social classes. The banter between them was hilarious, and the attraction curled my toes. The romance built slowly, and I appreciated how Quinn let the tension build. Anne’s wards were delightful, and I would love to read their romances once they come of age. I imagine they will cause quite a stir! Other characters from; Daniel’s best friend, meddling family members and someone from Anne’s past added to the suspenseful thread weaved throughout the novel and at times complicated the romance.

A Night Like This was a clever tale, and despite being the second book in the Smythe-Smith Quartet, I immediately felt comfortable. It would appear each is a self-contained tale. Daniel while not a devilish rake captured my heart with his straightforward manner and delicious banter. I love when my heroines are feisty, and don’t quite conform to the acceptable norm of the ton. Anne tries to be exactly what everyone expects, but it is difficult to dim such a bright light. While this was a relatively clean book, Quinn does discreetly bring us the heat. Many of the aspects I loved would only spoil the tale for you and I find myself biting my tongue. The pacing was well done, as Quinn provided details that allowed me to slip within the story and imagine myself there as an observing servant. The tale slowly built with tension as we moved towards the climatic ending. Quinn wrapped things up nicely, allowing me to close the book with a smile.

Copy received in exchange for unbiased review and originally published @ Caffeinated Book Reviewer