Publishers synopsis: Alone in a gentleman’s bedchamber, rummaging through his clothing, governess Leah Vance risks social ruin. Only by selling political information can she pay for her sister’s care. And the letter she found in Julian DeChambrelle’s coat could be valuable — if the ex-sea captain himself had not just walked in.

As a navy officer, Julian knew his purpose. As a new earl, he’s plagued by trivialities and marriage-obsessed females. Leah’s independence is intriguing— and useful. In return for relaying false information, he will pay her handsomely. But trusting her, even caring for her? That would be pure folly. Yet when he sees the danger that surrounds her, it may be too late to stop himself.

My take: One of the reasons we love to read romances is their predictability. We enjoy knowing that the story is always going to end well. C.J. Chase employs this tried and true formula with an added twist that makes “The Reluctant Earl” a very engrossing love story.

Just when you think you have figured out the story, the characters and how it will end, the author adds another layer of intrigue. Take the heroine, Leah. She’s a likeable character, but people who commit treason against their country are unlikeable — right? So from the beginning you are divided in your loyalties. Julian’s firm disapproval of a traitor, Leah, is at war with his growing attraction to her. The tension within him is well depicted.

Both leading characters are defined by their love and determination to care for their families, which leads to multiple misunderstandings until the end, when everyone’s true motives are revealed.

My rating: 5 out of 5. You will want to read more by this author.