When a stray pistol ball from the battlefield took Nash’s sight, it also took his entire identity. He’s retreated to his father’s county home to lick his wounds, but his drinking and isolation have only made things worse. When Nash’s father, a powerful earl, threatens to send Nash to an asylum, his former brothers-in-arms call in one of their own to set Nash back on the right course. Nash fears he’s fallen too far and perhaps ending it all is the best solution. Until he encounters a woman in the garden signing a bawdy tune at the top of her lungs.
Prudence Howard has traveled the world with her missionary parents. But after the scandal she caused in Cairo, they’ve foisted her on a vicar in the small town of Milcroft and sailed to the Far East to evangelize without her. Pru doesn’t mean to cause trouble; it’s just that being good is so very hard. When she meets Nash Pope, she’s instantly intrigued. He might be hot-tempered, but he’s handsome and unusual and arouses her interest and passion like no one she’s ever met. He might not know he needs or even wants her help, but Pru has a plan to save him.
Together they glimpse a brighter future.
Nash is bewildered by the unconventional woman who keeps turning up on his doorstep. She tries to teach him night writing, claims a feral peacock is a momentous sign, and makes his toes curl when she kisses him. She refuses to give up on him. But though Nash finds it easy to believe in Pru, can he ever trust himself again?
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Shana Galen is one of my favorite authors. Her novels are filled with captivating characters, intriguing conflict and sizzling romance. She pairs an unlikely couple – a blind soldier and a missionaries daughter-in Sweet Rogue of Mine resulting in an excellent read!
Nash Pope was a member of the Draven’s Dozen; a group of elite soldiers. As a sharpshooter, he played an important role in covert operations against Napoleon’s army. A piece of shrapnel leaves Nash blind but, more importantly, robs him of his identity and self-worth. Shana Galen writes Nash’s story with honestly and emotion. Nash’s struggle drew me into the story immediately.
Prudence Howard is Fabulous! She’s a free spirit, an intelligent and kind person. Although she’s travelled the world with her missionary parents, her manners, clothing and behavior aren’t accepted by most of residents in the village.
I loved this fast paced novel as it had several supporting sub plots. Rowden travels to Nash’s estate to help him get back on his feet and get the estate and its grounds in shape. As one of the survivors, Rowden understands what Nash experienced during the war. The pieces of Nash’s story unfold during the conversations between the two ex-soldiers and this information is significant to the story. Prudence experiences are important to the story as well. She wants to help Nash by teaching him night writing—a form of Braille. Both Nash and Prudence have scars. Nash’s are visible while Pru’s are emotional—these wounds bond the two characters. I was invested in their friendship, loved how they only believed the best in each other and enjoyed watching their friendship deepen into a romance.
If you are looking for a fast paced novel filled with fabulous characters and a fantastic story-pick up a copy of Sweet Rogue of Mine!
Reviewed by Susan Gorman
Kindle copy purchased through Amazon
