The second story in this book is a much greater disappointment. I enjoyed the story overall, the bedroom scenes were brief and easily skipped and there were only occasional Americanisms. I understand why they say this, but read in context these negative views about her appearance are her own misconceptions about how she looks.The main criticism Francis levels at her looks is that her facial features are too striking and bold for her to be considered pretty, but from their first meeting he is attracted to her. In fact, his actions prove Cora has clearly helped him move on from his infatuation, without him at first realising it.Īlso, I note a few readers have complained that the book contradicts itself with regard to at first describing Cora as attractive and then as big footed, unattractive and unfeminine. I was able to read through the first story in this book thanks to the appeal of the lead characters and the occasional touching moment, but I felt it was not of the same quality as Lord Carew's Bride, book 2 in the series.Īlthough, I actually think Ms Balogh does a good job of portraying the progressive romance between Francis and Cora and I do not feel Francis is forever thinking of his lost love as some reviews comment. And in this unlikely union, Stephanie and Alistair make a welcome discovery-that sometimes it’s possible to marry first, then fall in love.įirstly, for those that don't know, these stories are books 3 and 4 in a series of related stories. Sure that he’s sullied her name, Alistair offers marriage to make amends. Yet Stephanie Gray, a former governess, has recently come into money and is eager for a proper match with a well-born man. And that’s what he expects to receive when he rescues a seemingly disreputable girl in a colorful bonnet off the side of the road. But could piercingly blue-eyed and well-mannered Francis Kneller turn out to be the most unexpected love of her life? THE PLUMED BONNET Alistair Munro, the Duke of Bridgwater, is looking for love outside the bounds of polite society. Innocent and adrift in a world of beautiful banquets, bejeweled gowns, and snobbish standards, Cora is quickly compromised into a marriage-to a frivolous lord whose interests seem to lie elsewhere.

Yet when she gains renown for a daring rescue, she finds herself thrust into high society.

THE FAMOUS HEROINE Cora Downes has beauty, spirit, and money, but no breeding. Beloved New York Times bestselling author Mary Balogh spins two classic stories of Regency England-splendid novels of mistaken identity and unmistakable passion, where marriage is only the beginning of true love.

The Plumed Bonnet by Mary Balogh