The Heiress's Daughter by Anne Gracie

 💖💖💖💖/5

The Heiress's Daughter by Anne Gracie, book three in her The Brides of Bellaire Gardens series, is a captivating story that engages the reader, creating an enjoyable read. Heiress Clarissa Studley, was so beaten down by her father’s verbal abuse, it took a while for her to trust her own judgment and believe that someone could love her, just her, and she could be enough.

Scarred she vowed to avoid rakes and fortune-hunters as she searches for a husband; wanting only to marry for love. She has been keeping Race, Lord Randall, at arm's length and is determined not to fall in love with him; or at least not more than she already is. Though he is wealthy and not after Clarissa's fortune, Race's reputation as a rake has her convinced that he would an unfaithful husband. Race has adored Clarissa since they first met and is determined to prove her, and society, wrong about him. Clarissa is captivated by Lord Randall, who sees her unique beauty. When a wounded war hero starts to pursues her, Race becomes more desperate to prove to Clarissa that he truly loves her and she can trust him with her heart.

Clarissa and Race were fabulous characters and it's understandable why they fell for each other. Though she is insecure and doubts herself, Clarissa is brave, kindhearted, and willing to sacrifice anything for those she loves, especially her half-sisters. Race defies the rumors about him and his reputation; he's willing to fight for Clarissa, support her, and be vulnerable with her, while also respecting her and her boundaries. The side characters added so much to the story: including the indomitable Lady Scattergood, wreathed in brilliant scarves and surrounded by her dogs, Mrs Price-Jones, who has been employed as Clarissa’s chaperone, and Zoë, another surprise half-sister.

 

Ms. Gracie created an enchanting romance that was an enjoyable read, a wonderful story of the ones who can’t help but to fall in love with wanting and being in love.

 

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