You’ll hold her when she cries, and try like hell to understand why she’s angry. You’ll coax her and reason with her, and stand shoulder-to-shoulder with her. You better damn well like her, my boy, because love is ninety percent like and ten percent passion.

Redonk Nutshell: Recovering woman finds solace in her physician

Catriona Cameron was a head turning beauty, a woman who was only steps away from securing herself in marriage to a Duke. Until a horrible carriage accident that leaves her with burn scars and a permanent limp. Catriona falls into a deep depression, mourning the loss of a life that once-was, refusing to leave her room or allow herself to be seen by anyone other than family. Her aunt is desperate to get her niece back to her fighting spirit, but Catriona refuses to admit a physician. Instead, her aunt gets clever and enlists the help of a family friend who just so happens to also be a doctor. Under the guise of being a petulant footman, Mark Thorburn sneaks his way into Catriona’s routine.

Catriona finds her new “footman” annoying, but she comes to look forward to his visits, mostly because of the honest chats they have. When events begin to unfold that point to Catriona’s accident not being so…accidental, Mark takes it upon himself to investigate.

I really enjoyed this story. Catriona is a fascinating character. She’s not always likable  but she definitely has a turnabout that is 100% believable.  She is still Catriona at the end of the book, but she’s moved on from her loss of her life before the carriage accident. Her feelings for Mark, and the work he does not only in her life but others, really force her to see the light. It’s a very enjoyable “come to jesus” moment.

This was my first read by Karen Ranney, and I’ll definitely be picking up more!

The Lass Wore Black by Karen Ranney

Rating: B

Romance: 3/5

Raunch: 3/5