The Art of Loving

Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

Source: Gift from Author

TYPE OF NOVEL: Pride and Prejudice Contemporary Romance, Mature Audiences

THE PREMISE: Still reeling from a broken heart, William Darcy swears off love and agrees to a future marriage of convenience with his best friend. Six years later, the loveless marriage is about to begin, and that is when the woman who wrecked havoc with William’s heart re-enters his life… Tested and tempted…can William’s marriage pact survive an irrevocable love? Or do the bonds of friendship and contractual obligations end up having a tighter pull…

MY THOUGHTS:

📖 I’m so happy to be back in the world of a Cat Gardiner novel! I am always craving some modern Pride and Prejudice, and I just adore Cat Gardiner’s brand. You just know there will be strong, well-drawn characters, abhorrent antagonist creating nefarious trials, and an intense and deeply passionate love.

💕 It was so interesting to explore this important friendship in William Darcy’s life. Mr. Darcy having a female best friend is a dynamic you don’t see very often. And there is something a little unexpected about this friendship…and how the marriage pact was formed.

🎨 I loved stepping into the art world! I loved seeing the characters have such creative talents, learning about Elizabeth’s career as a gallery owner, hearing paintings described, learning  about painting techniques, and witnessing an auction. I thought it was so wonderful that William Darcy’s mom was a renowned artist and Elizabeth’s mentor. It was really unique to see Elizabeth have such a special connection with Mr. Darcy’s mom.

🗽 🇫🇷  Manhattan and Paris – two fantastic places for a romance. Cat Gardiner takes her readers on mini-holidays to both places. I loved the walks and special memories in Central Park, the dive bar dancing, and Elizabeth’s “Paris Favorites” tour. The descriptions of all these places and sites made me feel like I was there experiencing it all for myself.

🤠 I loved Elizabeth’s character in this story – she is so admirable. Elizabeth has had to learn to protect her peace, cut the ties that don’t serve her, and seek her own goals independently. She is strong, considerate, fair, and resilient. It was inspiring to see her rise up from the abuse and serve some very just desserts.

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