Reforming Harriet

"It is not a game, it is a business arrangement!"
Taking place in the early 1800s, this mismatched pair seems to have nothing in common.
Elias is only seeking to regain control of his spice company, formed due to his difficult life beginning and the blessing/curse of an absurdly accurate olfactory sense. He is a man on a mission who abhors any sort of disorganization and mess. He wants life to be lived according to structure and plan.
Lady Harriett is a widow. She endured a five year marriage and even though her husband died "of natural causes" while entertaining another woman, or being entertained, Harriett feels responsible for his demise. She is a contradiction of the most extreme.
A woman born before her time, she has no use for show more "society's musty strictures" (restrictions) or for any man to tell her what is in her best interests.
I truly appreciated how we got to take a look at issues from various points of view.
"A man's measure was not decided by the package in which it was wrapped."

Elias sees her as an out of control "spendthrift widow" where she sees she is spending money "for the greater good." All he sees is his future decreasing.
It is surprising when Lady Harriett proposes this "business arangement." It is out of character for her and Elias is not shy about calling her on it.

The book is amusing and entertaining and moves at a very steady pace.
I loved the language and the secondary characters are wonderful! I was so glad we got some closure with them before the book ended.

I did receive a copy of this book to review. show less