I received this book for free from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

Persuasion by Brenda Joyce
Published by Harlequin on July 31, 2012
Genres: Fiction / Literary, Fiction / Romance / Historical / American, Fiction / Romance / Historical / Medieval, Fiction / Romance / Historical / Regency, Fiction / Romance / Historical / Victorian, Fiction / Romance / Historical / Viking, Fiction / Romance / Romantic Comedy, Fiction / Romance / Royalty, Fiction / Women
Pages: 400
Format: ARC, eBook
Source: Netgalley
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Amelia Greystone was deeply in love when the Earl of St. Just abruptly ended his courtship and left Cornwall ten years earlier. So she is stunned when Simon returns, recently widowed. Now she must forget the past they shared and his betrayal and console him as any neighbor would. Simon has changed—he is dark and haunted now—but he can still make her reel with a single look. When he offers her the position of housekeeper, Amelia knows she must refuse. But for the sake of his children, she throws all caution to the wind….

A British spy, Simon Grenville is now playing both sides in a time of war, his goal to keep his sons safe. Yet when he is brought face-to-face with the woman he once loved, he realizes nothing about his feelings for Amelia has changed—if anything, they are even stronger. Still, Simon knows he must stay away from Amelia; his life is too dangerous now. But sometimes passion is too strong to be denied….

⭐ Persuasion by Brenda Joyce (4★)

Persuasion offers the kind of emotional tension and deep character work that makes historical romance so satisfying. Amelia’s quiet strength and Simon’s wounded soul create a dynamic that’s equal parts tender and explosive. I appreciated how the story didn’t shy away from moral gray areas or complicated decisions. Joyce pulls you into their world with intrigue, forgiveness, and a second-chance romance that never feels easy—but feels earned.