PERFECT IN EVERY WAY - Kristen Ashley

4.5 stars

Y'all sometimes the only happy you need is a new Kristen Ashley release. This latest installment in the Manors and Mysteries series—yes, you heard me, English manors and a compelling mystery!—was no exception.

Vivienne Dupree is an author on a mission: she's come to England to write her next novel. It's based loosely on the enduring mystery of her WWII veteran great-grandfather and his doomed love affair with a British member of the upper class, and Vivi's received exclusive access to the manor house where it all happened.

One of the manor's current residents is Vivi's pen-pal, Prudence (Prue) Talyn, who struck up a friendship with Vivi as they collaborated on the material and research for Vivi's writing project. Vivi's excited to spend time with her friend, meet Prue's family, and get to the bottom of her mystery.

But something stands in the way of her success: Battle Talyn, the Duke of Burleigh.

Battle doesn't want his family's secrets dragged through the public eye in the form of a lurid romance novel.

But he hasn't encountered Vivi's American stubborn will.

As the two "battle" their moral lines, they discover a dangerous chemistry that compels them both.

Add in some classic KA shenanigans such as some family antics, some dramatic friends, and a love story that spans every page (and decade).... Yeah. This was a good time.

Perfect in Every Way was just like its title. It hit the spot, and it was that—near-perfect in every way. (I say "near" perfect because... I must admit... I love a drama. I love a romantic angst. And Battle and Vivi?? They were a little too wholesome and emotionally stable for me. Yes, I know that reflects poorly on me. Oops.)

Battle and Vivi's love affair was the core of this story. Their heart, sense of family, and immediate chemistry worked for me on many levels. I enjoyed seeing them dance together and find their happily ever after.

Ugh, nobody writes an HEA like Kristen Ashley. Don't miss this one! It's a great entry point into the KA universe and a great standalone story.

Thank you to the author for my copy in exchange for an honest review.