Book Review: Ruined by a Rake by Erin Knightley

Ruined by a Rake by Erin Knightley

All's Fair in Love #1

It started with a kiss.

When nine-year-old Eleanor Abbington first met her uncle’s new stepson, Nicolas Norton, the boy rudely stole a kiss from her that set the tone for their contentious and competitive relationship. It wasn’t until years later when Nick introduced her to fencing that they finally had a proper outlet for their frequent arguments.

Having just emerged from mourning following her mother’s death, Eleanor is exactly where she wishes to be at the age of four-and-twenty: an on-the-shelf spinster and unofficial companion to her aunt. Unfortunately, her ambitious uncle has other plans for her future. On the eve of his house party, he lays down his ultimatum: either Eleanor marries the man of his choosing, or he'll force her seventeen-year-old sister to do so instead.

When Nick unexpectedly arrives on their doorstep after a two year absence, Eleanor is in no mood for their normal banter. Seeming to know exactly what she needs, Nick challenges her to pick up the foil once more. During their pre-dawn matches, he shows her just how strong she can be . . . and exactly how much he’s changed since leaving. But when her old adversary becomes her only ally, she may very well find herself . . . Ruined by a Rake.

Ruined by a Rake is a very sweet and fast romance to read if you have a couple of hours. Eleanor is being forced to get married by her uncle, and if she doesn't do it, her young sister will have to do it instead. She thinks she lost her fight until Nick, her 'cousin', comes back home and decides to help her.

I thought it was unusual that Nick, the hero in this story, was younger than Eleanor, but somehow it worked. The story was good but the ending was way to fast and everything was resolved very quickly. I'd have like more, but it was ok to read before bed.

More about this book at Goodreads, Amazon.