The Lady Meets Her Match

by Gina Conkle

[Angie]

I received an ARC through NetGalley.

Based on Cinderella, The Lady Meets Her Match is a delightful Historical Romance following the independent Claire and the man she wants to avoid, Cyrus. All Claire wants is to own her own business and live in peace, but Cyrus refuses to rent to a woman. He demands that she get her father, brother, or husband to sign the lease for her. Well, Claire isn't having any of that, so she sneaks into his masked ball in order to raid his office for something with his signature that she can forge it. Of course, she has to be nearly caught by Cyrus himself. He becomes completely intrigued by this mystery woman, but she disappears right as the unmasking is going on. But she left behind her first name and her shoe, so he aims to track her down.

I loved this twist on the classic tale. The Lady Meets Her Match starts off based on the fairy tale, but soon diverts into its own great romance. I actually really liked how in the beginning Cyrus wasn't sure if he was looking for Claire to return her shoe, get to know her better, or find out if she robbed him! He's completely baffled by why she ran off so suddenly, but that doesn't stop him from feeling something for the outspoken young woman. I also liked that her forging his signature wasn't some drawn out thing and the focus of the conflict. He stumbles upon her in her new coffee shop and she admits what she did and why. While Cyrus may have traditional values when it comes to women in business, he does admire her backbone. Good for him!

Claire doesn't want or need a man her life, but she does find herself falling for Cyrus. She doesn't play games with him though. She speaks her mind, and even discloses that she is not a virgin! Gasp! But then again, she does discover one of his dirty secrets while trying to earn some extra money to support her store. I definitely didn't see that one coming! Although I was wondering why the "King of Commerce" was so muscular...

In the end, I really enjoyed The Lady Meets Her Match. Cyrus knocks down Claire's defenses and shows her that she can still be her own woman while also having love. She shows him that women don't always need the protection of a man. It's just a really sweet romance.

Read more of my reviews at Pinkindle Reads & Reviews.