A Prudent Match

This is a delightful book. I read it in 2 days. The characters are wonderfully drawn, complete with foibles, and totally endearing. This is the first book I've read by Laura Matthews, and her writing reminds me of my favorite author, Mary Balogh.

If this book had been written in the days when a sub-title was considered a valuable addition to the book, such an addtion to this one might have been ". . .or, Sensible Expectations". Marriages of convenience are exceptionally popular in the Regency genre, and this gentle and charming book clearly demonstrates why. Will, Baron Ledbetter, is in need of ready cash to fulfill an unusual codicil to his mother's will. Prudence Stockworth, oldest of four daughters, quite on-the-shelf at two-and-twenty, has suddenly found herself a woman of means, having inherited a fortune from her deceased fiance. Prudence and Will had met four years earlier when she made her come-out, but Will's very masculinity had scared her--right into the arms of the unfortunate Porlonsby. That young man had promptly taken himself off to India to make his fortune, but died before ever returning home to claim Prudence for his own. Will's father was known for his impatience; Will is heading in that direction. Prudence only wants to be loved and wanted for herself, fears, hangups and all. How these two come to terms with their marriage, each other, and their friends and family is a remarkably fascinating tale spun by the capable Ms. Mathews. There is even a touch of mystery, unravelled by the capable Prudence. The book is really quite sensual, but in such a tender, sweet way it should not offend anyone. In fact, had I a teen-age daughter, I would happily hand her this book instead of a dry, non-fiction attempt to teach her the facts of life. With any luck at all, she'd also learn the true way to make a marriage work--honesty about and above all things--with yourself and your mate, and, also, the fine old art of compromise.A lovely, gentle, satisfying reading experience awaits. Enjoy!

Prudence knew that William married her for the money she inherited from her former fiance, but she hoped that once they got to know each other, their marriage would be more than just "convenient." After being neglected so long by her former fiance, she had no intention of allowing her new husband to relegate her to the country while he enjoyed the pleasures of London.William's feelings for his wife were deeper than he let on; he had been attracted to her years ago and was disappointed to hear of her engagement. Now he was married to her and desperately wanted to consummate the marriage, but his passion frightened her. He couldn't just force himself on her. Just a little patience, he kept telling himself. But for how long?Prudence's "pure sensibilities" go on for a bit too long; otherwise, I would have awarded five stars to this enjoyable, well-written Regency treat.

The lady, nearly on the shelf, has a large dowry from the estate of her deceased fiance, who never returned from India to marry her. The gentleman, despite his thriving estate and assured social position, needs an infusion of ready cash to settle a matter arising out of his mother's will. Thus when they marry, it's prudent. Is it possible that a marriage based on prudence can deepen into a love match? Laura Matthews is unique among Regency authors for the way she starts where others end; the happily-ever-after is by no means assured, and the couples must learn to accomdate each other, a refreshing departure from the usual leave-them-at-the-altar approach. This has never been more delightful than it is in this outing. Thoroughly enjoyable and wonderfully absorbing, with characters whose quirks and foibles make them real.