The Last Surprise — Blair Bancroft

Not all surprises are good ones. In the midst of a glorious second season, Lady Christine Ashford's life is wholly disrupted by tragedy. The death of her father, the Earl of Bainbridge, leaves herself and her younger sisters summarily exiled from the family estate, sent to distant relatives in Yorkshire to await the return of the elusive heir to her father's title. There, life quickly becomes untenable.

The new earl's return from the colonies gives Christine and her sisters a chance to escape their scheming Yorkshire relatives -- but only through unexpected marriage to this unknown man who's taken her father's title and lands. As the year turns to Christmas, the season of new life and joy, Christine must decide if she can embrace the spirit of the season…and her new husband.

Blush sensuality level: This is a sweet romance (kisses only, no sexual content).