The Virgin Who Vindicated Lord Darlington

Anna Bradley

Feb 2021 · The Swooning Virgins Society Book 2 · Lyrical Press

About this ebook

As the women of the Clifford Charity School for Wayward Girls fearlessly bring corrupt aristocrats to justice, they put their lives—and their hearts—on the line . . .
 
Going undercover as a governess is a first for Cecilia Gilchrist. But once she’s installed in Darlington Castle, discovering whether the mysterious marquess murdered his wife proves more daunting than she imagined. Dashing widower Gideon Rhys, Marquess of Darlington, is clearly harboring secrets—but is it possible a cold-blooded killer lurks behind his devastating gaze? Trailing his every move only brings her closer to him. But if her heart misleads her, she could pay with her life . . .
 
He never should have let her into his world, but now that Cecilia has infiltrated his home, his senses, and his heart, Gideon will do anything to keep her safe from the darkness that has robbed him of everything. Yet keeping her close only makes it more challenging. For the more Gideon falls for Cecilia, the greater the danger to her . . .
 

Ratings and reviews

This is another winner from this author. Filled with intrigue and romance, the pages just flew as I turned them to find out what would happen next. Cecilia Gilchrist is sent on a mission to find out if Lord Darlington killed his wife. Rumors have flown through the village and London that he had her dead and buried by his own hand. As he approaches a new bride, Cecilia is sent undercover to find out if there is truth to the rumors before the next bride is wed. In addition, there are sightings of the ghost of the Lord’s former wife that have the villagers scared. Cecilia must discover the truth, no matter what that may be. The characters in this novel are rich, and full of life, and you feel especially close to Cecilia as she falls for Lord Darlington. When she explores the grounds, and the castle she knows there has to be a reason for his secrets and the mystery. A mystery that makes the reader definitely want to read on to discover themselves. This is a well developed storyline and plot that makes this a very enjoyable romance. This is part of the series of books about the Clifford Charity School for Wayward Girls, but it is also a standalone. References are made to the people in the previous book, but if one has not read it, one would not be lost. However, the other book is a wonderful read, so I would recommend reading it as well. I am definitely looking forward to the others in this series.

Cecelia Gilchrist comes to Darlington Castle to learn the truth about the Marquess’s role in his wife’s death. Lady Amanda has sent her on this mission on behalf of Lord Darlington’s betrothed. Her assignment is quite fitting as Cecelia loves gothic romance novels, and this assignment puts her right in the middle of one - scary old castle, horrid rumors about the master of the castle, brooding hero, and of course, a ghost. I love Cecelia and Gideon’s story. Like Cecelia, I am a fan of gothic romance. Cecelia is a sweet and caring girl. She is also persistent and observant, the perfect choice for this assignment. Gideon is a thoughtful person with a caring heart. He has lost much and bears the burden of blame. His niece and ward, Isabella, is a darling girl. She and Cecelia are fast friends. Gideon and Lord Haslemere, we’ll hear more about him later, are out trying to catch the ghost, who managed to scare away his betrothed. Cecelia is searching through the castle for proof of what really happened to Lady Darlington. This one has action, drama, danger, secrets, revenge, a cat with the inside scoop of castle comings and goings, and finally a love story. I really enjoyed this addition to the Swooning Virgins Society. It’s a great read; I recommend it. I received an ARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. My review is voluntary.

So perfect, so romantic. Normally I don't like the dead spouse trope because, selfishly, I'm always wondering who he loves more. This one, however, did not faze me. He clearly loved his late wife, but it wasn't so very strong as to prevent him from opening his heart to Cecelia. There wasn't a heart wrenching, angsty self denial. He didn't go on and on about Cassandra being the light of his life or his one true love. All of which I've unfortunately read before in another book, and all of which I am immensely grateful was not included here. Instead the primary focus of his pain was the darkness that settled over him as he lost everything. Here the past is understandingly painful but over with, and he is open to moving on (romantically). The romance that blossomed between the two was swoon worthy and perfect and I was left with no doubts. 🤗 And I loved Haslemere's character so so much. He's a great friend, and I was ever so grateful that he wasn't afraid to call things like they are.😘

About the author

Anna Bradley is the author of The Sutherland Scandals and The Sutherland Sisters novels, as well as the Besotted Scots series. A Maine native, she now lives near Portland, OR, where people are delightful and weird and love to read. She teaches writing and lives with her husband, two children, a variety of spoiled pets, and shelves full of books. Visit her website at www.annabradley.net.