A True Gentleman: a clean Regency romance with banter, heart stopping moments and drama

True Gentleman is the first book in The Ashbrooks series by M.A. Nichols. Ten years ago, Tabby Russell married the man of her dreams, convinced he had left his wayward ways behind. Now he has returned to his old ways, leaving them penniless and desperate. Tabby is left with no other choice but to find employment. She finds a job as a housekeeper and nurse to an injured and overbearing sea captain. Captain Graham Ashbrook’s whole life has been the navy; but a French cannonball ends it all. Now he feels trapped in a body that is slowly healing and at the mercy of his new housekeeper. As Tabby and Graham interact, he starts to envision a life on land; however, what can he do when the lady keeps him at arm’s length?  As their lives change, can they have their hearts’ desires? Or will they be trapped by their circumstances? 

I usually do not read Regency romances; however, I was intrigued by A True Gentleman. As the story started off a bit slow; I wasn’t sure if it was the book I thought it was; however, once Captain Ashbrook and Tabby interacted, the story sped up and I couldn’t put it down!  I loved Tabby as a woman who recognizes the reality of her life and is determined to do what she can to survive. I loved the grumpy captain who is used to barking orders, instead of taking them. The two are like oil and water until that magic moment. The banter between Ashbrook and Tabby was entertaining and there were great heartfelt moments between them as well. Overall, I enjoyed A True Gentleman. It is a clean romance with plenty of drama and heart stopping moments. I will be continuing the series. If you enjoy clean Regency romances, I recommend A True Gentleman. 

A True Gentleman is available in paperback, eBook and audiobook