The Wicked Heir

Michels’s third Spare Heirs Regency (after The Rebel Heir) is full of twists and turns. Lady Isabelle Fairlyn is a romantic who is determined to see the best in everyone; her twin sister, Victoria, is a cynic. After Isabelle makes the acquaintance of Fallon St. James over a display of poorly made cakes at a ball, she believes that they will remain friends even after she begins a romance with Kelton Brice. Unfortunately, Isabelle’s hopes are dashed when Victoria becomes betrothed to Kelton. Instead, when Isabelle is attacked by an enemy of her father, Fallon is the one who comes to her rescue. He takes her to his home, insisting that it’s the only place where she won’t be in danger. This device of ostensible imprisonment mostly allows Isabelle and Fallon to get to know each other in close quarters, and Isabelle enjoys the time she spends assisting with his household. Fallon and Isabelle gradually fall in love, but both know that their fragile connection will likely end once the danger to her life has passed. The evolution of the relationship between Isabelle and Fallon, as she gradually breaks down his defenses and he realizes the value of her love, is delightful. Agent: Michelle Grajkowski, 3 Seas Literary Agency. (July)