My Dear Mr. Ridley by: Sandra Sookoo

 Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

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Book Description

The year is 1819 and Theodosia Netherton—Lady Ballantyne—is wintering in the sunny climes of Italy in an effort to protect her health as well as to visit her brother. Widowed for three years, she has no interest in a new romance, but when a horrific emergency leads her to the doorstep of a handsome Bow Street Runner and former spy with wide shoulders and a mysterious scar, she might just change her mind.

Mr. Hudson Ridley is in Rome for the warmth and relative obscurity. Retired at the age of eight and thirty, the last thing he wants is to become embroiled in a kidnapping plot that involves an attractive widow and her missing son. Yet he was the best in the retrieval business in his prime, and she did have hauntingly unforgettable eyes as well as a smile that could make a man do wicked, stupid things.

In the quest to hunt the people who nabbed the boy and heir to a viscounty, Theodosia and Hudson dance about a mutual attraction until desire gets the better of them one star-lit evening amidst some of Italy’s finest ruins. But tracking the criminals turns deadly when shots are fired and they’re in the middle. Time is running out to rescue the young heir, keep a valuable jewel safe, and somehow figure out if love is the ultimate reward despite the obstacles and the risk.

About Sandra Sookoo

Sandra Sookoo is a USA Today bestselling author who firmly believes every person deserves acceptance and a happy ending. She’s written for publication since 2008. Most days you can find her creating scandal and mischief in the Regency-era, serendipity and happenstance in the Victorian era, or historical romantic suspense complete with mystery and intrigue. Reading is a lot like eating chocolates—you can’t just have one book. Good thing they don’t have calories! When she’s not wearing out computer keyboards, Sandra spends time with her real-life Prince Charming in Central Indiana where she’s been known to bake cookies and make moments count because the key to life is laughter. A Disney fan since the age of ten, when her soul gets bogged down and her imagination flags, a trip to Walt Disney World is in order. Nothing fuels her dreams more than the land of eternal happy endings, hope and love stories.

My Thoughts

Sandara was a new author to me. I was intrigued when I came across her book the first in a series. I love finding a new writer to enjoy.

Though this story was short, it was a lovely read. It gave me Sherlock Holmes vibes.

Theodosia is a widow raising her son alone. She is intelligent and beautiful. She also prefers to avoid conforming to what society believes she should be and do. She also holds a secret that could cost her not only her son but his life.

Mt. Ridley, Hudson is a disgraced Bow Street Runner or so he feels. In truth, Hudson is a man that can't seem to see past a mistake made. One that any human could have. When Theodosia comes seeking his help, he isn't sure he can give it. As Hudson uncovers the truth about Theodosia's son he begins to see there is more to this woman than just a mother fearing for her child.

I enjoyed seeing the chemistry between Theodosia or Dia as Hudson affectionately calls her. The sparks are immediate. Though this story is short, it has a lot of depth. I really got to know the characters and begin to cheer them on. The writing was wonderful and there is a to of heat to the story.

The description of Rome, the food, and the surroundings all had me feeling like I was there. I could tell the author herself loved this city. The fun part is I could actually see this book as the beginning of a great mini-series on TV with say, Henry Cravell as Hudson. Just my thoughts.

Overall, I truly enjoyed this story and look forward to reading more by Sandra.