A Matter of Class by Mary Balogh
Tracy's Rating: 5 of 5 stars
Series: Standalone
Release Date: 07/09/2024 re-release
When Reginald "Reggie" Mason incurs the wrath of his father by spending money foolishly and losing even more by gambling, his father puts his foot down and demands that Reggie settle down and marry or be cut off without a shilling. His father, Bernard is a self-made man who made a fortune in coal, but despite his enormous wealth, has never been accepted into the ton. He had high hopes for Reggie, and by sending him to schools with the ton's sons, he gained connections as well as a great education. Reggie refuses to marry saying he is still young and hasn't done anything ruinous, unlike their neighbor's daughter, who ran off with the family coachman and was seen by half the ton before she was dragged home, ruined and jilted by her betrothed. Upon hearing that tidbit, Bernard hatches a plan – after 30 years of being snubbed by the ton, and especially his haughty neighbor the Earl of Havercroft, the tide has turned, and Bernard sees a way to marry his son into the nobility – he will make Havercroft an offer he can't refuse!
Lady Annabelle "Anna" Ashton, the only child of the Earl of Havercroft is in a world of trouble. Thanks to an ill-advised elopement with Thomas Till, she has found herself ruined and her father is threatening to send her into exile. He is especially upset that her betrothed, the Marquess of Illingsworth cried off, which will ensure the financial ruin of family, which is in dire straits thanks to some poor investments and unwise spending. But even knowing this, Anna could not bear the thought of marrying the marquess when she was madly in love with another. Now it seems she is ruined and unless she agrees to marry Reginald Mason, the son of the man her father hates, she will be sent away. Could things get any worse?
This is a re-release of a previously published story, which I read years ago and was delighted to learn that it was being given a second life – I loved this story when I first read it and I think I actually loved it more today – it is fresh, fun and an utter delight to read. I loved Anna and Reggie, they are both likable and both care deeply for their families. This story doesn't have a lot of action, drama or angst – but it has love, friendship, hope, and a lovely happy ending. It is not the story you think it is going to be – it is better! It has earned a spot on my very small keeper list and I happily and highly recommend it to my fellow historical romance lovers!
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own. *
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