Guarding The Countess by Lily Reynard

This is a gripping story of love, betrayal, intrigue and drama. Kit is a charming, chivalrous, brave and caring mercenary who is down on his luck after his wife dies and he is injured to badly to continue his profession. Taking his daughter back to where he was born to reside with his mother was his plan, but when he arrived at his mother's cottage he was informed of her death. Now, even more desperate, he turns to his only other relatives, the Earl of Thornsby, brother by blood but not acknowledged. Thornsby, unfortunately, has his own money troubles that he is trying to fix by a marrying young, rich widow, the Dowager Countess of Cranbourne. Antonia is a virtuous, pious lady who doesn't wish to remarry and become the property of another man, and also lose the wealth and independence her deceased husband gave her. Thornsby offers to pay Kit now and provide a dowry for his daughter if he kidnaps Antonia so that Thornsby can force her into marriage. Desperate, Kit agrees and leaves to complete the job. He follows her on her way to London planning to kidnap her as soon as he has a chance, and ends up saving her from an attack. When she offers him a job, he figures that it's the way in to gain her trust. Neither planned on falling in love. The shocking twists and turns will keep you captivated.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Booksprout. This is my honest and voluntary opinion of it.