The Work of Art by Mimi Matthews

The Work of Art by Mimi Matthews ISBN-13: 9781733056908 Paperback: 356 pages Publisher: Perfectly Proper Press Released: July 23, 2019

Source: ebook review copy from the publisher through NetGalley.

Book Description from Goodreads:
Hidden away in rural Devonshire, Phyllida Satterthwaite has always been considered more odd than beautiful. But in London, her oddity has made her a sensation. Far worse, it's caught the eye of the sinister Duke of Moreland--a notorious art collector obsessed with acquiring one-of-a-kind treasures. To escape the duke's clutches, she's going to need a little help.

Captain Arthur Heywood's days of heroism are long past. Grievously injured in the Peninsular War, he can no longer walk unaided, let alone shoot a pistol. What use can he possibly be to a damsel in distress? He has nothing left to offer except his good name.

Can a marriage of convenience save Philly from the vengeful duke? Or will life with Arthur put her--and her heart--in more danger than ever?


My Review:
The Work of Art is a romance set in 1814 in England. Philly is a kind, compassionate woman drawn to hurting beings. She has four loyal dogs that she's rescued from injury or abuse, so she understands that Arthur's outwardly stern, unwelcoming attitude is a result of the injuries he received in battle. He was once a skilled rider and crack shot, but now he can't walk without a cane and even then only with pain.

Philly's kindness opened the way for a friendship between the two that developed into love. They had plenty of misunderstandings, but--happiness!--they actually talked them out within a day, drawing the two even closer together. They're a good match that brings out the best in each other. Suspense was added from the rumored danger to Philly because she rejected the duke's efforts to "collect" (marry) her. Accurate historical details about things like manners, historic events, and clothing were woven into the story.

There was some bad language. There were several scenes involving extended heated kissing (focusing on the face) fading to black as things became more intimate between the married couple. Overall, I'd recommend this enjoyable romance.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.