The Wicked Marquis

I am surprised there were no reviews for any of Ms. Ellingson's books, so it is hard to judge how the author's general works are; I believe she deserves at least one review, for I enjoyed this book very much. From back of the book: A daring ploy in the game of love. Lovely young Esme, recently orphaned and nearly pennilss, arrived at her uncle's country home to the delight of her four cousins. High spirited and well versed in the ways of the world, Esme had all the charm to make her unconventional behavior quite forgivable. When Esme discovered that hr cousin Kit was about to forsake love for an arranged marriage, the wonderfully imaginative Esme was compelled to give Cupid a hand. Her daring ruse involved betrothing herself to a man she had never met ... a man with a very wicked reputation. When Esme finally does meet her "intended", the entrancingly mysterious Marquis of Locklynde, her innocent game takes a startling turn as unexpected but undeniable attraction begins to bloom. I really enjoyed Esme's spirited, intelligent, and daring approach to carry out her plan of saving her cousin from a loveless marriage. I could really feel her bubbling personality, a very likable young lady. I also enjoyed the dialogues and bantering among the heroine and hero, they were very cleverly done. The only minor bone that I had to pick was not enough courtship between the two main characters. But I don't think this dampen the overall plot. Strongly recommend it.