Scandal by Carolyn Jewel

The earl of Banallt is a reformed rake determined to win the heart of the only woman he’s ever loved.

Two years after the death of her husband, Sophie Mercer Evans still has no use for Banallt. It’s true she knows him better than anyone, and that’s why she'll never forgive him his past and the mortal insult he dealt her. And yet, when her life is falling apart, it’s Banallt who stands by her. 

***

This book was the first of many books I have been exploring from kindle. I love it. It has turned me on to reading independent authors. Carolyn Jewel did an amazing job; this story is typical of what I love to read. A good historical romance set back in the 1800s when things were simple and complicated at the very same time. The characters really grabbed me. The love story between the Earl of Benallt and Lady Evans was spun in a way I've not experienced in novels yet. Benallt loved to have affairs with married women but wanted the only one he was sure he couldn't have: His best friend's wife. The story goes back and forth between present day 1800s and a few years before. 

Sophie Evans is well aware of her husband's ways. Out gallivanting with Lord Benallt and whoring with numerous women despite both men having wives at home. Usually, the woman would be resentful, even hateful of the man who encouraged a husband to be unfaithful. But in this particular story, Sophie developed an unusual friendship with Benallt. It is interesting to see the development of this friendship as well as what happens next with these two. 

There is a wow moment in this novel right at the end that was very well placed. I enjoyed this novel a lot. I am glad I gave this author a shot, and am looking forward to reading more of her work.