Gloved Heart: A Regency Romance (Hearts of Amberley Book 2)
After Amy Miller’s adopted parents died, she was given a job as lady’s maid to Lady Ashworth in the Barrington household. While employed there, she was attacked by John Barrington, the son of her mistress, and became pregnant. When her pregnancy became noticeable, she left Lady Ashworth and was unexpectedly taken in by Mr. and Mrs. Fortescue as a family member.
Mrs. Fortescue, a kind but exacting woman, has a special interest in making Amy a lady. But Amy was raised as a tenant farmer’s child and is uncomfortable in this gentry household. She is especially resentful when a wet nurse is hired because she wants to take care of her own child.
When her childhood friend Henry Russell sees Amy on his land, his love is rekindled. He dreams of marrying her and taking her son as his own. But when Henry reaches for Amy’s hand, she pulls away from his touch. Henry thinks Amy’s rejection has something to do with him and is hurt. But after her attack, Amy vowed she would never let another man touch her.
Henry must patiently win Amy’s trust again in order to marry her and move to the house and land his father has given him. As Amy rebels against the Fortescues’ expectations, she comes to understand the underlying reason they have taken such an interest in her. When Henry sees John Barrington, who is back in town, he confronts him with the shame he caused Amy by his selfishness.
This book can be read as a stand-alone, but I think reading the first book in the Hearts of Amberley series would be helpful for character background. The situation of Amy’s unmarried state and other sensitive matters are handled very delicately. I recommend this story for readers who like a sweet romance.
