What a Lady Needs for Christmas by Grace Burrowes

Lady Joan Flynn is attempting to escape Edinburgh (believing she is in disgrace and fleeing a scandal) when she  discovers that the last train out until Monday morning is full.  Behind her in line is Dante Hartwell (who has earned the nickname "Hard-Hearted).  When Dante's daughter hears the stationmaster tell Joan that there are no more seats until Monday, she insists that Joan travel with him.  On the train, Joan tells Dante that she needs to marry and as Dante needs a society wife to help his sisters and children make better matches, he agrees to marry her.   During their stay at the house of Dante's friend, Ian MacGregor.

I normally do not read the seasonal novels.  However, I read this one because of how much I like Grace Burrowes novels.  Again, I was not disappointed.  If you have not read the prior novels in this series, do not worry.  This flows brilliantly and reads well as a stand alone.  I liked how strong of a character Joan was, independent and not afraid to admit that she designs clothing and makes her own.  Dante is a hard working man that only wants the best for his family and will even marry a second time to gain a better station in their society.  He is a strong defender of Joan when she believes that she has been compromised. In the end, he finally learned that his property wasn't the source of happiness and took a risk with Joan and her family.

I again am glad I had the provilage to read a Grace Burrowes novel before publication for review.

I received this book as an ARC from NetGalley and the publisher, Sourcebooks Casablanca, in exchange for an honest review.