The Soldier

Starred review from April 11, 2011
Burrowes follows 2010's The Heir with the captivating, sweetly domestic Regency-era tale of a duke's illegitimate son and a countryside baker. Rewarded for his military service with a title and a long-neglected estate, Devlin St. Just's attempt to find peace is disrupted by the young bastard daughter of the estate's previous owner. Feeling responsible for her, Devlin invites little Winnie and her aunt, Emmaline Farnum, into his home. Emmie feels swept along but can't resist the opportunity to stay close to her niece. As Emmie and Devlin become confidantes, her friendship, insight, and ample charms help him heal from his emotional war wounds, but Emmie's precarious position in the community and shattering secrets drive her to flee even if it means leaving Winnieâand her heartâbehind. Burrowes's straightforward, sensual love story is intelligent and tender, rising above the crowd with deft dialogue and delightful characters.

April 15, 2011
Devlin St. Just, the first-born, illegitimate son of a very powerful duke, fought against Napol'on and received the title Earl of Rosecraft. He has now taken charge of the estate and a young ragamuffin named Winnie. As the illegitimate offspring of the former earl, Winnie has had free reign of the estate, with only her cousin, Emmie Farnum, to watch her. Devlin sees Winnie much as he would one of the young soldiers under his command. Emmie sees Devlin as an invader, come to upset her simple life. She is an outcast who bakes delicious treats to make a living. Through their connection with Winnie, Devlin and Emmie form a bond that allows them to see beyond social divisions as they face personal demons. As she helps him overcome wartime trauma, Devlin hopes to persuade her to become a permanent part of his life. In this follow-up to The Heir (2010), Burrowes continues her winning streak with a delicious, sensual historical romance capturing the spirit of the time.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2011, American Library Association.)