Sophie Dupont, daughter of a portrait painter, assists her father in his studio, keeping her own artwork out of sight. She often walks the cliffside path along the north Devon coast, popular with artists and poets. It's where she met the handsome Wesley Overtree, the first man to tell her she's beautiful. Captain Stephen Overtree is accustomed to taking on his brother's neglected duties. Home on leave, he's sent to find Wesley. Knowing his brother rented a cottage from a fellow painter, he travels to Devonshire and meets Miss Dupont, the painter's daughter. He's startled to recognize her from a miniature portrait he carries with him--one of Wesley's discarded works. But his happiness plummets when he realizes Wesley has left her with child and sailed away to Italy in search of a new muse.
Wanting to do something worthwhile with his life, Stephen proposes to Sophie. He does not offer love, or even a future together, but he can save her from scandal. If he dies in battle, as he believes he will, she'll be a respectable widow with the protection of his family.
Desperate for a way to escape her predicament, Sophie agrees to marry a stranger and travel to his family's estate. But at Overtree Hall, her problems are just beginning. Will she regret marrying Captain Overtree when a repentant Wesley returns? Or will she find herself torn between the father of her child and her growing affection for the husband she barely knows?
MY REVIEW-Julie Klassen is a truly talented author, as evidenced again by her latest novel, The Painter's Daughter. I always enjoy these stories and while they are delightful, they are normally deep and thoughtful.
Captain Stephen Overtree steps in and saves the day, marrying Sophia Dupont, after his brother leaves her pregnant and alone. I really liked Stephen. He is kind and gentle, though not always coming across that way. He is firm and used to being obeyed, if only he can learn to treat Sophie different than the men he commands. They make for a great couple with the normal tensions of a marriage with no love at the start.
Mrs Klassen is particular to historical detail and it is part of what makes me love her books. Rich in all kinds of detail, from the weather to the clothing being worn, and don't forget the actual history of an area. Excellent Regency era book and I cannot wait for her next story!!
**DISCLOSURE: I was given a free product in exchange for an honest review. No other compensation was given, and all thoughts are 100% mine. Please read my full disclosure policy HERE.**
1 comment:
Thanks for your honest review! I have never read this author but I will give her a try. It's a pleasure to read historical fiction when the author has done the research. kristiedonelson(at)gmail(dot)com Thank you.
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