Runaway Heiress (A Dare to Defy Novel) by Syrie James

Blurb: Brainy and college-educated, American heiress Alexandra Atherton will do anything to avoid marriage to the English peer her mother has chosen for her—even abandon the life of privilege she's always known. But as her escape goes horribly wrong, Alexandra must invent a new identity to gain the help of a handsome stranger.

Thomas Carlyle, the Earl of Longford, sweeps in and out of London disguised as a humble artist, earning just enough to keep his ancestral Cornwall estate afloat. When Alexandra crashes into his life, she awakens feelings and desires that he vows will stay buried. Despite himself, he needs this beautiful newcomer, for his sisters have run off another governess.

Alexandra is surprised to find she thrives in her new position at Longford's home. But as she grows closer to Thomas and his sisters, and her relationship with the emotionally guarded earl unleashes their hidden passions, the truth Alexandra's been forced to hide may end up coming between her and the only man she's ever loved.

Review:  I know that I’ve mentioned multiple times how much I love runaway heiress/hidden identity novels, but oh-my-gosh I love them and I want to scream it from the rooftops.  Runaway Heiress by Syrie James is no exception to that rule.  In fact, it’s even better because both the hero and the heroine are operating under a case of hidden identity.  That might be the first time I’ve read a runaway heiress story with that unique of a premise.

Sometimes in historical romance novels the women are timid and naïve, a consequence of the time period obviously, but I do so prefer brave heroines who know what they want—or don’t want—and reach out and take it.  Alexandra is that heroine.  Not to mention she’s amazing with the children she’s tasked to educate and that made me adore her even more! I found the fact that she was an American heiress to be a unique twist on what can sometimes come off as a been there-done that a million times story.

Thomas Carlyle was an interesting hero.  For one, I don’t recall ever reading about a hero in a historical romance wearing glasses—alright, so they’re fake, but still!  That’s sexy.  Maybe I’m biased because I wear glasses and want everyone to think they’re sexy.  I don’t know.  Let’s move on.  Watching Thomas move from indifferent to his sisters to actually enjoying being in their company was something special.  I positively adore children in romance novels because they bring such humor to the storyline.

Runaway Heiress has drama.  So, if that’s your thing: perfect!  There’s attempted kidnappings, there’s—obviously—mistake identities, there’s making out in dark hallways, there’s beautiful paintings, and there’s big, decrepit manors.  All in all, it’s a wonderful read that I was sorry to see end.  I eagerly await the rest of this series!  You can purchase Runaway Heiress now.