4/5 Review: The Unlikely Lady by Valerie Bowman

FOR THE BACHELOR AND THE BLUESTOCKING…

Certain that no man wants a bluestocking for a wife, Miss Jane Lowndes is careful to wield her books and her spectacles as weapons against matrimony. Convincing her ambitious mama that she's content to stay a spinster is easier said than done, however. It's a good thing Jane is not above a bit of manufactured scandal if it will keep her from the altar, and the argumentative, contrary Lord Garrett Upton…

ROMANCE IS NEVER BY THE BOOK

With the war over, Garrett is determined to enjoy his bachelor's life while he can, even when it means attending a house party in celebration of a friend's wedding--and suffering Jane's notorious disdain. But when a masquerade ball leads to a mistaken kiss, he's surprised to learn that Jane's bookish exterior hides a truly passionate soul. When two such headstrong people are determined to remain unattached, can love lead to a happy ending?

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This is the third installment of the Playful Brides series.  It reads well enough on it's own - It's the first of the series that I have read.  

Jane Lowndes only goal in life is to be a privileged spinster.  Although she is happy her best friends have found husbands she would be perfectly happy living alone with her books to keep her company, she has not intention on ever getting married.

Lord Upton (Garrett), is haunted by the time he spent at war.  In attempt to assuage some of his guilt he sent money to the widow of the man who saved his life, instead of bringing him some peace she wants Garrett for herself.

I found this book engaging and it made me smile from time to time.  The fine line between love and hate is walked between Jane and Garrett.  A day doesn't pass for them without an argument.  It's fun to have an historical romance that the heroine isn't a simpering maid but a strong, well spoken, woman.  That being said if you are a fan of historical romance - this one is definitely worth the time.  I myself, hope to find time in the near future to read the first two books in the series.