Otherwise Engaged by Joanna Barker

 

She’s never been afraid of breaking the rules—until she risks breaking her heart

Constantly stifled by the rules of Society, spirited Rebecca Rowley enjoys finding ways to quietly—or not so quietly—rebel. But riding bareback and avoiding nosy neighbors are nothing compared to the thrilling secret she is keeping from her family.
When Rebecca’s quick thinking saves the life of a young girl, she unwittingly attracts the attention of the child’s dashing brother, Lieutenant Nicholas Avery. As that attention turns flirtatious, Rebecca is forced to tell him the truth: she is secretly engaged—to the one man her family would never approve of. Fortunately, Lieutenant Avery is a navy man with no wish to marry, or so they both assume as they enter into a friendship. Rebecca hopes to change her family’s mind about her betrothed, but the more she comes to know the handsome lieutenant, the more she wonders if she promised her hand too hastily.

After all her carefully laid plans are shattered during a family crisis, Rebecca must force her heart to decide. Should she stay true to the promise she made or fight for the future she’s only just begun to imagine?

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I just love when a book engages my interest from the very beginning and doesn't let go.  That's what this book was- engaging and interesting.  The characters were enjoyable and the plot was layered.  Oh, and isn't the cover pretty?

Rebecca is a fun character.  She longs for adventure and freedom.  Yes, she is a bit on the obstinate side but she is kind and never tries to purposely hurt anyone.  I loved her passionate side and how much she loved riding her horse- fast!  Her family is protective of her but they recognize her zest for riding and try not to stifle her too much.  If only they knew . . .

The first meeting between Nicholas and Rebecca was a good one.  Think of a good dousing in a lake.  I love how although things between Nicholas and Rebecca start out a bit rocky, their friendship is genuine and grows in a lovely, natural way.  Because they are both great characters, it was easy to love them both.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book.  The ending was dramatic and romantic.  The epilogue was just what my heart wanted to seal the deal.

Content:  kissing

- I received a complimentary copy of this book.  All opinions expressed are my own.