Guarding A Notorious Lady by Olivia Parker

Title/Author: Guarding A Notorious Lady by Olivia Parker
Publisher/Date published: May 31st 2011, HarperCollins
How I got this book: received it from the publisher through NetGalley

Goodreads summary: "A woman of pristine breeding, Lady Rosalind Devine is also an unrepentant meddler and snoop — which is why her brother refuses to leave her to her own devices while on his wedding trip. But Rosalind will not make things easy for any unseen, unwanted “nursemaid” — and vows to use her considerable wiles to expose her mystery guardian.
Nicholas Kincaid, the Marquess of Winterbourne, agreed to secretly guard his friend’s spoiled, stubborn sister, though her infuriating penchant for mischief is causing him to question his decision. Though bound by the rules of society — and friendship — Rosalind’s spirit and sensuality have sparked a fierce desire in Nicholas to play a very different role in her life, one that entails passion, ecstasy... and unavoidable scandal."

So, it's been a long time (well, okay, about a month), since I've read a historical romance novel and about two months since I read one I loved. And then this book came along on my reading schedule (I seriously have a schedule these days, it's crazy) and I really, really enjoyed it.

I had almost forgotten how much fun these books can be! I've been having a bit of a reading slump lately, and read some amazing books, but none of them as relaxing as the historical romance novels that are my guilty pleasure.

Rosalind is a wonderful heroine, she's a good friend and sister and knows exactly what she wants. I loved that she's known the hero (who is delightfully handsome) for a couple of years, it gives the relationship some depth. She and Nicholas have wonderful chemistry and I really enjoyed reading about them.
Nicholas sounds absolutely dreamy and he's got a huge sense of loyalty to his friend: Rosalind's older brother.

I did think it was a bit odd that nobody would tell Rosalind who her guardian was to be, since they all thought she'd figure it out anyway. But that didn't detract from the storyline in general. Extra brownie points for Nicholas' ubercute nieces! I loved those two little girls, though they have a small role in all of this.

This was a nice, relaxing, but a bit short read and if you enjoy romance novels like me, this could be right up your alley!
My rating: 4 stars