"Lighthearted conclusion to this popular trilogy."

Painfully shy and rather plain, Prudence Armitage, a spinster long on the shelf, uncovers her talent and co- edits a popular women's magazine. Invisible to her family of blonde and tall relatives who resemble Vikings, Prudence looks more like a dainty pixie. Her invisibility ends when she astounds her family by being found in a compromising situation with Nicholas Parrish. No one can believe that the little mouse has trapped such a handsome man.

Nicholas Parrish's life, with his big dreams, collapses as innocent circumstances are interpreted wrongly. Forced to marry, Nicholas rails at the gods for his misfortune. Never wealthy, he must now struggle with his risky investments to afford a wife. Moreover, how can he be attracted to such a small, timid creature?

Nicholas endeavors to contain his self-pity, but it's difficult. Every physical approach he makes, Prudence trembles and blushes. Prudence, having always loved Nicholas, attempts to overcome her meekness. Finally, their friends provide the catalyst needed in their relationship.

Ms. Hern's popular trilogy concludes with this lighthearted and gentle tale, sprinkled with humor throughout. ONCE A GENTLEMAN is sure to please.

Reviewed by Suan Wilson
Posted April 14, 2004

Summary

Prudence Armitage is his dearest friend... until a compromising position changes everything. Nicholas Parrish had no intentions of taking a bride, and certainly not someone like Prudence. Of course she's charming, pleasant, and a diligent employee of The Ladies' Fashionable Cabinet, the magazine Nicholas and his sister run from his home. Prudence may even be considered pretty, when you look past the mousy hair and dreadful glasses. But when she falls asleep at her desk and remains in his town house all night, her irate father demands satisfaction. And being a true gentleman, Nicholas agrees to do the proper thing. Though marrying Prudence never crossed his mind before, he has to admit there is an intriguing and desirable side to her he's only just beginning to see. But Nicholas may need to reconsider his plans for a marriage "in-name-only" especially now that Pru has decided to make herself totally irresistible.