A review by user613
A Proper Scandal by Esther Hatch

3.0

This book is, indeed, full of scandals, proper or not, and one orphaned girl, with a huge dowry, who is beautiful enough to be a temptation to men no matter where she goes.
SpoilerAnd who isn't even safe in her own aunt's house.
It only makes sense that she's deperate to get married to free herself of her step-uncle. Nate seems to be the solution to her problems. A trustworthy man. Who she likes. That even her step-uncle approves of.
However, Grace knows nothing about flirting. She needs to get married in a matter of weeks. And, Nate isn't interested in marriage.
Grace's cousin tries to coach her in attracting men but both know that Grace doesn't have the luxury of waiting. So, if Nate doesn't fall for her, they agree that Grace will have to force him into a compromising situation. As in, force him to marry her, knowing that he's not interested.
And then, just as everything seems to be working out, things take a turn for the worse.

She realizes he's not the man her uncle agreed that she marry. He doesn't know if he can trust her.

And, Grace realizes she doesn't only want to get married. She wants to be loved. And trusted. By Nate. Which seems near impossible considering the lies and deception between them.
Still, she sets out to fix it all and earn back Nate's love. She's just not sure if it's too late.


If you're looking for a clean romance that still manages to feel mature, this is the book for you.

Content Warnings
There are many, many suggestive comments, compromising situations and lustful men, throughout the book.
SpoilerThere's also Grace's step uncle who's described as a gambler with hungry look in his eyes and who wants Grace for himself.


Romance
Spoiler
There is much discussion of men's desires.
Grace, we are told time and again, is beautiful. And, a temptation to men. There are many scenes with men looking at her with a hungry look in their eyes, admiring her figure, and even making unwanted advances. Her uncle, too, is guilty of all this. Though only once does he try to do more than touch her face, hair or arms. And, Grace's husband stops him after he manages to push Grace up against him the wall. There are also many suggestive comments, and talk of women being compromised.
Grace and Nate share passionate kisses.


Violence
SpoilerIn two scenes Grace is shown defending herself with a knife against men.
We see horrible working conditions (which we also see Nate doesn't approve of). Nate is in an explosion where people die and are wounded because of these conditions.


Religion
Grace stayed in Vicar's house after her parents' death and sung in church choir. Her wedding is in a church.
Spoiler