A review by wanderingintopages
When the Viscount Wanted Me by Lydia Lloyd

4.0

When the Viscount Wanted Me transports you to the elegant and scandal-prone world of Regency England. The narrative kicks off with Lord Hugh Aldershot, the Viscount of Tremberley, overhearing a scandalous claim from a drunken Earl of Hartley about having bedded Lady Henrietta Breminster, the sister of Tremberley's best friend. Incensed by the slander against Henrietta, Tremberley drags the unconscious earl to Breminster House to confront him, only to come face-to-face with a scantily clad Henrietta.

Lady Henrietta Breminster, caught off guard in her nightdress, panics at the sight of Tremberley with the unconscious earl. She has long harboured secret feelings for Tremberley and is mortified by the potential scandal. Henrietta must now rely on Tremberley to help her avert gossip and protect her reputation.

As Tremberley and Henrietta work together to manage the repercussions of the earl's indiscretions, they find themselves drawn into an unexpected and forbidden attraction. Their efforts to keep the jealous earl in check only bring them closer, stirring deep emotions and desires. However, Henrietta is resolute in her belief that marriage should be for love, not convenience or duty, leaving her torn between passion and principle.

**Review:**
"When the Viscount Wanted Me" is a delightful addition to the Regency romance genre, blending scandal, loyalty, and forbidden love into a compelling narrative. Lydia Lloyd masterfully crafts a story that is both engaging and emotionally resonant. The chemistry between Tremberley and Henrietta is palpable, and their interactions are filled with tension, passion, and wit.

The character development is particularly strong. Tremberley is portrayed as a man of honour, fiercely protective of those he cares about, while Henrietta is a determined and intelligent heroine, struggling to navigate her feelings and societal expectations. Their journey from mutual respect to deep affection is both believable and heartwarming.

Lloyd's attention to historical detail adds depth to the setting, immersing readers in the intricacies of Regency society. The secondary characters, including the jealous earl and Henrietta's supportive brother, add richness to the plot and provide additional layers of intrigue and conflict.

The novel's pacing is well-balanced, with moments of intense emotion interspersed with lighter, humorous scenes. The dialogue is sharp and engaging, capturing the formal yet flirtatious nature of the period.

Tropes
-Marriage of Convenience
-Forbidden Love
-Protective Hero
-Strong Heroine
-Friends to Lovers

Overall, "When the Viscount Wanted Me" is a captivating read for fans of historical romance, offering a perfect blend of love, loyalty, and societal intrigue. Lydia Lloyd delivers a story that is sure to resonate with readers long after they turn the final page.