Wow. I was not prepared for this book. Ms. Balogh did an excellent job of creating three dimensional characters that you invest yourself in. Miss Charity Duncan applies as a governess, carefully hiding the fact that she is an impoverished gentlewoman in an effort to secure the position and help in the support of her younger siblings. Anthony Earhart is a jaded, frustrated man who wants to one-up his father and show up with a bride far beneath his station, thus advertising for a governess to children he does not have, and instead "hiring" a wife. But Charity is much more than she appears, and her affect on his estranged family is nothing short of miraculous. This story touched me deeply and I am anxiously looking forward to reading my next Mary Balogh book!