Review: A Practical Arrangement by Nadja Notariani

Title: A Practical Arrangement
Author: Nadja Notariani
Genre: Historical Romance
Pages: 195
Publisher: Indie Published
Published:  September 2012
Source:  FMB Book Tours
Buy Link: Amazon

Synopsis:

Miss Evangeline Grey, intelligent and sensible, has no desire to marry, her reluctance born from the dire warnings of her overly emotional mother. Her father has other ideas, however, and decrees that unless she weds by the spring, he will choose a husband for her.

Prim and proper Evangeline accepts her father's issue with little more than mild alarm. Knowing herself plain of face and sharp of tongue, she believes herself capable of warding off any perspective suitor. Her plan goes awry when the scandalous seducer, Mr. Thomas Masterson, visits her family's home, for Thomas has learned that he must procure a wife to receive his full inheritance.

When he discovers Evangeline's predicament matches his own, Thomas determines to orchestrate a practical arrangement. A war of wit and word results, and Thomas finds himself ever more beguiled by the soft heart he discovers under Miss Grey's stern, inhibited exterior. Patiently, he endeavors to gain her respect and awaken her passions. As tenuous trust blooms between the rake and the reluctant, unfortunate events – and Thomas' past reputation – threaten to destroy the peace and happiness he has found within the bonds of his Practical Arrangement.

Evangeline has always been in her sister Melody’s shadow; the plainer of the two sisters, she fully expects to stay a spinster.  When her father decides it’s time for Evangeline to marry and Melody to re-marry; she doesn’t put much stock in it.  Who would marry her when most only see Melody?

Thomas Masterson is set to inherit Cherry Hill; he has been learning and researching farming methods in the area.  When he and Mr. Lane visit the Grey’s; he is immediately intrigued by the intelligent, witty Miss Evangeline Grey. 

This was an interesting read, it did take me a bit to get into the story; but was pleasantly surprised how it drew me in as I got past the first couple of chapters.  Thomas knew exactly what he was doing, when he corners Evangeline; they would have to marry and with that solve both their problems.

Evangeline is terrified of marriage and everything it brings.  Can she get past her fears and find love with Thomas?  Can she see herself as more then just a ‘plain’ looking woman?  Can he see past her intelligence and wit, to find the beautiful woman she is?

Would I recommend this book?  Yes, for someone who is looking for a quick read and loves historicals.  I love stories of reformed rakes who fall in love with their wives, that are pushed into marriage to save someone from scandal.  Anyone who loves those types of stories, will enjoy this.  Would I read more by this author?  Yes.