Lily of the Valley

A prickly amateur inventor falls for his cheerful houseguest in Eden’s sweet, Georgian era follow-up to Forget Me Not. Kester Barrington craves his solitude, but makes an exception for his tight-knit group of friends, the Gents, who affectionately refer to Kester as their “Grumpy Uncle.” After a house fire displaces Kester’s neighbors, the list of people Kester will allow to disrupt his peace is forced to grow. Violet Ridley is known for her sunny disposition, and, while staying with Kester, she makes it her mission to loosen him up. For her part, Violet loves socializing but fears that if the truth got out about her prosthetic arm it would prove an additional obstacle to her merchant family being accepted into society. Kester is eager to assist her in hiding her secret and improving the mechanics of her arm, and the pair bond over bolts and gears. Conflict arises when Violet doesn’t immediately reciprocate Kester’s feelings, but with the matchmaking Gents involved, the two are sure to find their way to happily-ever-after. Eden gives more attention to the Gents’ friendship than to the romance, but readers will still find plenty to enjoy in the endearing couple, the jovial atmosphere, and the hint of mystery. This is a worthy sequel. (Apr.)