Charles Draysmith, the new Marquis of Knightsdale, had finally come home to Knightsbridge to take over the title for his late brother. Although this is a job he would rather do without, he knows it’s now his responsibility to marry and produce an heir. Upon arrival he sees the woman he wants to take as a wife, Emma Peterson the acting governess of his two nieces Claire and Isabelle. Emma, however, doesn’t take well to his proposal of marriage especially since he mucks it up by telling her he would be in London most of the time and only come home to produce an heir. Her disapproval of his suggestion is evident in the small china dog shattering on the study door.

Emma can’t believe the man she has dreamed about since she was six would actually ask to marry her in name only and not love. Knowing she could never marry him without any type of reciprocal feelings, she decides it’s better to just give up the notion. While she loves his nieces and sees the tenderness he has with them, she can’t help but hope for their sake Charles stays around Knightsbridge. However, Emma can’t stop Charles’ behavior and her attraction for him. Can he convince her that he loves her and that she is the only woman he wants?

The Naked Marquis is a delightful read. It is full of fun and laughter and even has some mystery thrown in. The match making nieces and Society ladies only add to this hilarious tale. Sally MacKenzie has created a true Regency Romance that readers will find enjoyable and leaves us wanting more. Emma is a heroine to admire as she doesn’t give in to Charles’ many proposals and attempts at seduction but stands her ground for herself and the girls. For those of you who love some comedy in your historicals, you will love Sally MacKenzie’s writing style. The story flows nicely and each of the characters adds a bit of spice to this tale. Regency Romance lovers will not want to miss The Naked Marquis.


Reviewed by: JoAnn