The Impatient Groom: Society Weddings

The Impatient Groom by Sara Wood Harlequin Presents # 2054 - September 1999 Society Weddings themed series When her father dies, Sophia learns from his lawyer that her mother had been an Italian heiress, and that as her sole survivor she is now the next Contessa D'Antiga. Until Sophia's existence had become known, Prince Rozzano di Barsini had been her grandfather's heir. Meeting Sophia he instantly recognizes her inner beauty and innocence, and takes her under his wing. Rozzano's pregnant wife had died a number of years before, and though he truly wishes not to give his heart again, he knows he needs to marry and produce an heir. Sophia is appealing in all regards. She has her own wealth, desires children of her own, and appeals to him in ways he thought no one could ever again. Sophia can't help her attraction to Rozzano and finds herself easily swept off her feet. Believing he loves her as deeply as she loves him, she agrees to a speedy wedding. Through the bitterness of Rozzano's brother, Sophia learns that her new husband only married her for the children she would bear him. Both Rozzano and Sophia are wonderful characters. Rozanno makes a near fatal mistake in not confiding in Sophia early in their courtship. Sophia had lead a simple life and was innocent, however she has a strength and intelligence that quickly allows her to adapt to her new situation. This is a lovely love story, one I enjoyed very much.

Sophia, a tall heavy-set blonde, thinks she is just the daughter of a deceased small town vicar. She's in dire financial straits when her family's solicitor summons her to his office for the shock of her life. Sophia learns that her maternal grandfather is an Italian count who tried to force her mother into a loveless marriage, causing her to disappear from his life forever. He's sent his friend Rozzano, an Italian prince, to retrieve his last living relative. Sophia and the widowed Rozzano are instantly drawn to each other and are engaged before they leave England. Unfortunately, both are insecure about their relationship. Rozzano is reluctant to reveal his love for Sophia openly. He tells people that he cares nothing about her, trying to protect himself from a womanizing brother who has devastatingly betrayed him in the past. In Venice, Sophia finds out what Rozzano has been saying and thinks she's mistaken his passion for love, becoming doubtful of his intentions. Aristocratic Italians marry for heirs and keep mistresses for sex, she's told. Sophia gives Rozzano the benefit of the doubt, though, and continues with their plans for a surprise wedding, much to her grandfather's delight. After the ceremony, however, Sophia peeks in on Rozzano just as he is handing his alleged mistress her underwear. On their wedding night Sophia finally tells Rozzano how hurt and used she feels and banishes him from her bed. That's when secrets that should have been disclosed up front come spilling out. Will those secrets serve as bridges or walls between them? Rozzano's persistent secrecy is frustrating, but the healing strength of their relationship in the end is heart-warming.