'A Bride for His Convenience' by Edith Layton follows the story of Ian Sutcombe, who becomes a Marquis after his father's death only to discover the estate is broke. In order to save his family from financial ruin, Ian decides to marry for money quickly. He arranges a marriage of convenience with Hannah Leeds, a daughter of a wealthy merchant. The story explores the challenges and adjustments faced by the couple in their arranged marriage, as well as the development of their relationship from convenience to genuine affection. The writing style is described as discursive, focusing on character interactions and emotional progression rather than explicit scenes.

Characters:

The characters are well-developed and multifaceted, showcasing personal struggles and growth throughout the story.

Writing/Prose:

The writing features a discursive style that effectively conveys character dynamics and development.

Plot/Storyline:

The narrative centers around a marriage of convenience that evolves into genuine affection between a marquis and a wealthy merchant's daughter.

Setting:

The setting is a historical Regency backdrop that highlights class disparities and societal expectations.

Pacing:

The pacing provides a realistic depiction of the characters' emotional journeys, although the conclusion may feel less impactful.

Notes:

The main character, Miss Hannah Leeds, is the daughter of a wealthy merchant.

Lord Ian Sutcombe is an impoverished Marquis forced to marry for money due to his family's financial troubles.

The marriage is characterized as a 'marriage of convenience' without romantic intentions at first.

Hannah initially avoids love due to a past heartbreak from a man named Timothy.

As the story progresses, both characters develop genuine feelings for each other, despite a rocky start to their marriage.

The book contrasts arranged marriages with unequal social standings and explores the complications that arise from them.

The relationship develops slowly and authentically, with moments of discord and adjustment.

Despite criticisms of the hero's initial cruelty, the author redeems him as the story unfolds.

The story incorporates themes of social class and wealth disparity common in regency romances.

The pacing of the story was praised for its realism, while some reviewers felt the ending was too easy or cliché.

Side characters, like Hannah's ex and Ian's stepmother, add depth and tension to the story.

Many readers found the themes reminiscent of Georgette Heyer’s A Civil Contract, with some preferring Layton's take on the premise.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

There are medium-level content warnings, likely related to themes of betrayal and emotionally charged situations.

Has Romance?

There is a significant amount of romance present in the narrative, showcasing the evolution of the relationship between the protagonists.

implied steam level

From The Publisher:

Unless he finds a wealthy wife-and soon-Lord Ian Sutcombe will lose everything. Left deeply in debt by his foolish father and greedy stepmother, his only hope is to marry for money.

Stung by a suitor's cruel betrayal, Hannah Leeds, daughter of a prosperous merchant, wasn't sure she'd ever love again. So when her father arranges her betrothal to the handsome lord, she agrees.

It was no more than a marriage of convenience. They would honor and obey, but never love…until a simmering passion exploded into a sizzling affair. Now, with Hannah socializing with members of the ton and another man out to win her heart, Ian will do everything in his power to show Hannah she is his ecstasy, his desire fulfilled…and ho so much more than a bride for his convenience.

What can you read after
A Bride for His Convenience?

A Christmas Promise
Mary Balogh
historical romance
marriage of convenience

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A Bride for His Convenience

Edith Layton