London 1859. Carina Temple has put away the stifling black crepe demanded by the death of her father – but with it she has also cast aside society’s expectations of what a single young lady should be and do.

When Carina’s uncle summons her to Belgrave Square to inform her that her reputation is ruined, thanks to a certain Lord Danby, he tells her that she must travel to Italy until the gossip recedes and a suitable match can be found for her.

But Italy is a tempestuous place – her grandmother and cousins soon tell her of the fault lines between the states and the dangerous rebels fighting for freedom. Chief among these is Ben Mavrone – and when he and Carina meet, he distrusts her society pedigree, and she considers him a violent extremist.

When trouble comes to Carina’s door, it is Ben who saves her – reluctantly – and as they go on the run, they must learn to understand each other to stay alive.

Meanwhile back in England, Carina’s family has plans for the life Miss Temple should lead – if she ever returns… I really enjoyed this book. It was hard to put down as it drew me in immediately and before I knew it I was in the middle of the book!

I read this ARC for an honest review
All thoughts and opinions are mine

Love this genre and Italy so this was a perfect read as far as I'm concerned

Set in 19th Century - a great read

I’ve really been into Italian themed books lately so definitely was interested in picking this one up!
Premise
London 1859. Carina Temple has put away the stifling black crepe demanded by the death of her father – but with it she has also cast aside society’s expectations of what a single young lady should be and do.

When Carina’s uncle summons her to Belgrave Square to inform her that her reputation is ruined, thanks to a certain Lord Danby, he tells her that she must travel to Italy until the gossip recedes and a suitable match can be found for her.

But Italy is a tempestuous place – her grandmother and cousins soon tell her of the fault lines between the states and the dangerous rebels fighting for freedom. Chief among these is Ben Mavrone – and when he and Carina meet, he distrusts her society pedigree, and she considers him a violent extremist.

When trouble comes to Carina’s door, it is Ben who saves her – reluctantly – and as they go on the run, they must learn to understand each other to stay alive.

I loved the independence of Carina and could relate to what she was going through with also losing my father.
Also her relationship with Ben how they went from sort of hating each other to Ben saving her and how their relationship progresses throughout the book was very interesting to read about as well.

This is such a beguiling story that gripped me and drew me into the 19th century. I loved the two settings and it made me really want to visit Italy only with less rebels. I really enjoyed the historical aspect of the book and just couldnt put it down. An enjoyable read.