Rules for Engaging the Earl: The Widow Rules

Janna MacGregor

Apr 2022 · The Widow Rules Book 2 · Sold by St. Martin's Paperbacks

About this ebook

Get ready for lost wills, broody dukes, and scorching hot kissing all over London in Rules for Engaging the Earl by Janna MacGregor.

Constance Lysander needs a husband. Or, so society says. She’s about to give birth to her late husband’s child—a man who left her with zero money, and two other wives she didn’t know about. Thankfully, she has her Aunt by her side, and the two other wives have become close friends. But still—with a baby on the way, her shipping business to run, and an enemy skulking about, she has no time to find the perfect match.

Enter Jonathan, Earl of Sykeston. Returned war hero and Constance’s childhood best friend, his reentry into society has been harsh. Maligned for an injury he received in the line of duty, Jonathan prefers to stay out of sight. It’s the only way to keep his heart from completely crumbling. But when a missive from Constance requests his presence—to their marriage ceremony—Jonathan is on board. His feelings for Constance run deep, and he’ll do anything to make her happy, though it means risking his already bruised heart.

With Constance, Jonathan, and the new baby all together, it’s clear the wounds—both on the surface and in their relationship—run deep. But when the nights come, their wounds begin to heal, and both come to realize that their marriage of convenience is so much more than just a bargain.

Praise for Janna MacGregor:

"Janna MacGregor dazzles." —Eloisa James

"Janna MacGregor's stories positively sparkle." —Christi Caldwell

Ratings and reviews

There was just something about this book that let it worm its way right into my heart. A lot of that is I believe due to the underlying sweetness, poignant emotions and wounded hearts that are in play here. Plus, I will admit that I have a particular weakness for the friends-to-lovers trope. The whole concept behind this series is quite fresh and I find it very intriguing. The characters are complex, and you are sure to sympathize with them. I liked Constance and I found Jonathan swoon worthy. I am posting an objective, elective review.

This was a fun story. I loved how tenacious Constance was in trying to pull Jonathan out of his self-imposed imprisonment and back into the current world. Jonathan had his reasons for locking himself away, but Constance supported him and loved him. With intrigue, secrets, and danger attempting to keep them apart, their love proved stronger. I enjoyed the story, though felt it dragged a bit in places, and recommend it. I received an ARC through Netgalley, and this is my unsolicited review

Engaging story, Constance is a gem. Their second chance is more like another chance to get to know the person's they've now grown into based on their circumstance and experiences. No doubt that they love one another but Jonathan's heart is an icicle. I felt that Constance had really been through more than enough martial drama to have to have repeat performances with her new marriage. She's strong and optimistic with a truckload of patience which is what Jonathan is in desperate need of in order to come to terms with his baggage. They are perfect for one another. I received a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to read and leave a review.

About the author

Janna MacGregor was born and raised in the bootheel of Missouri. She is the author of the Cavensham Heiresses series, which begins with The Bad Luck Bride. Janna credits her darling mom for introducing her to the happily-ever-after world of romance novels. Janna writes stories where compelling and powerful heroines meet and fall in love with their equally matched heroes. She is the mother of triplets and lives in Kansas City with her very own dashing rogue, and two smug, but not surprisingly, perfect pugs.