The Truth Behind Their Practical Marriage (Penniless Brides of Convenience #3)

Our Review

Having just finished the second book in the PENNILESS BRIDES OF CONVENIENCE series, A WIFE WORTH INVESTING IN, it was nice to roll right into this last book, THE TRUTH BEHIND THEIR PRACTICAL MARRIAGE. It was nice to be reunited with characters we’ve met before along with new ones.

The book starts out in Florence, Italy, segues to Ireland and England and then back to Ireland. The scenic descriptions were both vivid and breathtaking. My emotions were engaged throughout.

The prologue sets the stage and takes place in late 1832 in Ireland. We then revert back to Florence earlier that year and are introduced to Estelle and Aidan. We get to know them a little at a time although Aidan definitely has some secrets. He’s not as carefree as he seems. The story flows nicely and there are multiple plots going on at once. There’s a darkness overshadowing Aidan at times. His lack of communication with Estelle, about anything of substance, is heart-wrenching, especially since that lack of trust keeps her distant.

Estelle and Aidan take a steps forward then a few steps back in their relationship, even though she’s proven she’s a helpmate. Aidan’s secrets slowly reveal themselves and their connection deepens. The story resolves itself as the last book in the series. I wouldn’t have minded an epilogue, however. The historical note at the back of the book was once again enlightening.

Ms. Kaye has fast become one of my favorite authors of historical fiction.  I look forward to reading whatever she writes next.