The Rogue Is Back in Town

by Anna Bennett

[Lindsey Gray]

I received this book for free. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

Second sons are notoriously too naughty or too nice. They always seem to be making up for the fact that they weren’t born first. It’s no different for Lord Samuel Travis. Always the life of the party, he’s a constant disappointment to his older brother. Their father was often there to mend the gap, but since his death, the brothers can’t seem to find a common ground. After one humiliation too many, big brother gives Lord Samuel a seemingly simple task, evict tenants in a crumbling town house.

The last unwed Lacey sister, Juliette, is making the best of life with her eccentric uncle in their slice of heaven. When Lord Samuel Travis bangs down her door claiming to be there at his brother’s instruction, Julie is shocked beyond belief. She had believed the house she’d spent most of her life in was owned by her uncle and wants proof that he doesn’t. Until that proof appears, Sam sets up house in the guest chambers because in truth, he has no where else to go.

At first, I really didn’t like Sam. I thought he was a spoiled brat who was used to getting his way. Gradually, Bennett brought to light what one could perceive as flaws were actually the best part of the man. Yes, Sam is a rogue of the first order, but he was forced into the position of naughty brother by his sadistically perfect older brother. Once he finds the woman worth putting it all behind for, his character seems rather charming.

As for Julie, I adored her in the previous two novels and found her even more amazing in this installment. She is completely selfless and maybe a little stubborn. When confronted with a man she can’t help but crave, she puts up a good fight and makes every challenge interesting.

Delightfully batty, Uncle Alistair, plays a huge part in this novel. His true nature is touched upon in the first two books, but we get a look at his brilliance and logic as he befriends Sam and shows his love for his niece.

There are so many aspects of this book I adored. Without giving any spoilers, I love how Bennett gave both Julie and Sam their own character building metamorphosis bringing the tale of the Lacey sisters full circle. While this may be the end of this series, I know Bennett has more stories to tell and I will be happy to devour every one!