"Fine historical romance"

Four years ago, the Ton was stunned when Lady Charlotte Collins eloped with Italian Count Di Abalonia. However, that marriage ended tragically and now Charlotte returns to England to what she believes is her rightful place amidst the aristocracy. However, her peers have a long memory and refuse to accept Charlotte back into the fold. Her only recourse to regain what she lost is to marry her way back.

Lord Alasdair "Dare" MacGregor attends the wedding of his sister where he meets Charlotte for the first time since just before her scandalous marriage. Dare enjoys the verbal battles with Charlotte just like he did five years ago, but has no plans to marry anyone. All he wants is to flee London so he can return to working on his marine engine, but Charlotte knows he is perfect for her to overcome her past, not that his owning her heart hurts her decision.

Readers will enjoy the war of words between the lead couple though why Charlotte insists she must return to her place of prominence is never fully understood. Still, she is a refreshing individual whose antics with the hero are not only amusing but also provide insight into the options Regency women had. Dare is a delightful counterpart who needs a catalyst to realize he cherishes Charlotte more than his engine. NOBLE DESTINY will please sub-genre fans with its battle of the sexes plot starring two fine protagonists.

Harriet Klausner

Reviewed by Harriet Klausner
Posted April 23, 2003

Summary

A poor widow, Lady Charlotte Collins returns to England eager to take her place in the ton, only to find herself shunned by all. Her one choice is to marry a groom with wealth, a title, and good looks, but Alasdair McGregor cruelly refuses to be the answer to her problems. In fact, she is forced by Dare's obstinacy to take extreme action— the faulty codpiece that leads to this marriage, the wedding that is literally a circus. But nothing can stand between Charlotte and what she wants most: the love of her husband.