(Image from Barnes & Noble) 

During the ten years he spent in foreign lands fighting for the Crown, Color Sergeant Conall Stewart dreamed of one thing: home.  Now that he's back in Scotland, he's devastated by what he sees.  While the Highlands are as beautiful as he remembers, his childhood house has been burned to the ground, his ancestral lands charred by the greed of his own countrymen.  With his family run off their land, maybe even killed, Conall has no idea what to do now. 

While he sends out inquiries, hoping to discover his family's fate, Conall rents a farm in a nearby town.  His home is one of the nicest in the village, naturally attractive to thieves.  When Conall discovers one such trespasser, he hauls the young boy home to his mother, sure the wee burglar will receive a sufficient scolding.  The soldier is shocked by Aileen Leslie's indignant response to his accusations.  Taken aback by the woman's negligent parenting and unwillingness to face the reality of Jaime's obvious criminal behavior, Conall washes his hands of the family altogether.

It's not long, though, before Conall finds himself coming to the aid of the widow and her son.  Before he knows it, he's developed a fondness for the boy.  His feelings for Jaime's mother have grown, well, far beyond fondness.  Before the relationship has a chance to go anywhere, though, Aileen's past comes calling.  With everything he cares about on the line, Conall must decide how far he's willing to go to save the people he loves.  

I've never been a big fan of romance novels, but I do enjoy a sweet Regency love story every so often.  Author Jennifer Moore is one of my go-to authors in this genre.  Having read most of her books, I know I can count on Moore to deliver an exciting, engaging tale featuring a brave, likable heroine; a courageous, dashing hero; a rich, exotic setting; and a positive, uplifting tone.  Moore's newest novel, Miss Leslie's Secret, is no exception.  It offers everything I love in a Regency romance—and more.  Although I've enjoyed all the books I've read by Moore, I think this one is my favorite.  I adored the setting, the characters, and the sweet romance between Conall and Aileen.  If you are in the mood for a swift, swoony read set in the always enchanting Scottish Highlands, I definitely recommend Miss Leslie's Secret.

(Readalikes: Reminded me of other books by Jennifer Moore, including Lady Emma's Campaign; Miss Burton Unmasks a Prince; Simply Anna; Miss Whitaker Opens Her Heart; A Place for Miss Snow; and Lady Helen Finds Her Song)

Grade:

If this were a movie, it would be rated:

for violence and some disturbing subject matter

To the FTC, with love:  I received a finished copy of Miss Leslie's Secret from the generous folks at Covenant.  Thank you!

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