A Scandalous Proposal

The romance plays mistress to the mystery in Michaels’s second Little Season Regency (after An Improper Arrangement). War hero Cooper Townsend has had enough recognition. He wants peace and quiet, and time away from desperate women. These desires will continue to elude him until he can put an end to his unknown blackmailer’s schemes. Daniella Foster has been mischievous since birth, but for once she’s not the one in trouble. Instead, she has to rescue her older sister, who’s suffering disproportionate consequences for a lapse in judgment. When Dany finds out the person blackmailing her sister is the same one plaguing Cooper, the two agree to a fake engagement so they can freely spend time alone together to uncover the mystery without causing scandal. As they share secrets and laughs, they form a tight emotional bond, and the blackmailer’s identity isn’t the only thing uncovered. The story is filled with delightful characters and witty repartee, but the climax is completely devoid of action—a disappointment after the thought-provoking beginning. (Apr.)