This has to be one of the best Regency novels I have ever read. Civilizing Frances is Book 3 of The Mad Hatterlys series and I can't wait to go back and read books one and two. Marguerite Butler doesn't write about simpering misses who have no clue what's going on until the final ten pages. There are no unrealistic coincidences or grand misunderstandings that could have been solved with a few words. This is a real romance of two unlikely strangers getting to know one another. These are two strong characters who are forced by an accident to consider themselves engaged, at least until Ainsley can find someone to take her off his hands. But even as he schemes to find a husband willing to wed the heiress, he find more and more things he likes about her, and dislikes about the paragon he had been considering for his new duchess. Frances finds Ainsley much more than a pompous duke with no more cares than his own consequence. She is surprised to discover she really likes the man. Ms. Butler has created a richly done portrait of an elegant period in history but with real live, likable characters that will entice you into their world. This book proves even just kissing can be fun. This one's a keeper.

Overall rating:
Sensuality rating: Sweet

Reviewer: Kathy F.
October 25, 2011