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Just One Kiss

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One small favor. One impossible mistake. One kiss that changes everything.

Lady Georgianna Packham has spent her life caring for others—first surviving a brutal boarding school, then shouldering the needs of an endless family. Helping a former classmate end an unwanted engagement should be simple. It’s just another favor. Another wish granted.

Until Georgie finds herself married instead.

Grey, Marquess of Coleford, is a battle-hardened soldier, newly titled, and guardian to two young girls who need stability more than scandal. A wife was meant to solve his financial troubles—not complicate his life. Yet Georgie’s quiet strength and unexpected courage unsettle him in ways no battlefield ever has.

Thrown together by accident and duty, Grey and Georgie begin to build something neither expected—a partnership shaped by kindness, laughter, and a growing, dangerous tenderness. But when Grey is called back to war, Georgie is left to face his responsibilities… and her own uncertain heart.

When love arrives by mistake, can two weary souls trust it enough to claim a future neither dared hope for?

Eileen Dreyer crafts a tender, emotionally resonant Regency romance filled with warmth, wit, and heartfelt connection. Just One Kiss explores how love can arise from the most unexpected circumstances, offering readers a deeply satisfying story of duty, devotion, and the courage to embrace happiness when it arrives unannounced.

297 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 24, 2026

3 people are currently reading
8 people want to read

About the author

Eileen Dreyer

76 books770 followers
New York Times bestselling, award-winning author Eileen Dreyer, known as Kathleen Korbel to her Silhouette readers, has published 28 romance novels, 8 medico-forensic suspenses, and 7 short stories.

2012 sees Eileen enjoying critical acclaim for her first foray into historical romance, the Drake's Rakes series, which follow the lives of a group of British aristocrats who are willing to sacrifice everything to keep their country safe. After publication of the first trilogy in the series, she has just signed for the next trilogy, following the graduates of the aptly named Last Chance Academy, who each finds herself crossing swords with Drake's Rakes. Eileen spent time not only in England and Italy, but India to research the series (it's a filthy job, but somebody has to do it).

A retired trauma nurse, Eileen lives in her native St. Louis with her husband, children, and large and noisy Irish family, of which she is the reluctant matriarch. She has animals but refuses to subject them to the limelight.

Dreyer won her first publishing award in 1987, being named the best new Contemporary Romance Author by RT Bookclub. Since that time she has also garnered not only five other writing awards from RT, but five RITA Awards from Romance Writers of America, which secures her only the fourth place in the Romance Writers of America prestigious Hall of Fame. Since extending her reach to suspense, she has also garnered a coveted Anthony Award nomination.

A frequent speaker at conferences, she maintains membership in Romance Writers of America, Sisters in Crime, Mystery Writers of America, and, just in case things go wrong, Emergency Nurses Association and International Association of Forensic Nurses.

Eileen is an addicted traveler, having sung in some of the best Irish pubs in the world, and admits she sees research as a handy way to salve her insatiable curiosity. She counts film producers, police detectives and Olympic athletes as some of her sources and friends. She's also trained in forensic nursing and death investigation, although she doesn't see herself actively working in the field, unless this writing thing doesn't pan out.

Get in touch: eileendreyer@eileendreyer.com

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5 stars
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
Profile Image for Lyn D Rose .
1,289 reviews19 followers
February 25, 2026
This first book in the Last Chance Academy series was an engaging and heartfelt Regency historical marriage of convenience romance. A favor and a kiss change everything for many lives that led to a heartwarming journey to a forever love. I enjoyed the strong-willed and interesting characters and the darling little girls. I highly recommend reading!
Profile Image for Bonnie.
1,175 reviews21 followers
March 1, 2026
Thanks to Booksprout for a copy of this ebook and this is my freely given opinion.

This is book 1 of the Last Chance Academy, a new series, but as I read, I realized that it is within the Drake's Rakes world. This one appears to focus on a trio of female characters who are cousins, and have taken on the role of fairy godmothers/fixers for other girls of their acquaintance, starting from when they were ringleaders at their girl's school, to now in their adulthood. When, as girls, it was perhaps sneaking into the kitchen to feed the hungry girls, now it is more things like seeking out lost jewels, or love letters.

Lady Georgie Packham, one of the three, has been the Packham who has been charged with caring for others pretty much most of her life - whether it is her massive blended family, including caring for and teaching the little ones, or running the household for her diplomat parents, or caring for the girls and their problems from boarding school. She was never asked what she wanted or given space and time for herself. She had one dream, and that was to have her independence one day so she can breathe, have quiet, and privacy and do for herself without the concern, care, or responsibility of others - something she has never had before.

But in the mean time, she has been tasked by an old schoolmate for aid in getting her out of an arranged betrothal with the new Marquess of Coleford. Grey has spent most of his adult life in the the service of the King, outside of Britain. He was far from inheriting the title... unfortunately because of deaths of cousins, he ended up inheriting the Marquessette, and problems that he was never prepared for, including two very young orphaned girls, and estates that were left impoverished through the mismanagement of his cousins. He thought he found a solution when a marriage with an heiress was made with her title-hungry parents.

This all comes apart when he meets Georgianna Packham who is determined to take away the arrangement that seemed to be such a neat solution to her problems, but when he suggests that she take the position herself, she turns him down flat, as marriage is not in her plans for herself.

I really enjoyed this story, because of the very likeable characters who were warm and charming, and their relationships with thier rather eccentric, quirky, and fun (mostly) friends and family. The children were sweet, and tugged at the heart with the signs of fear and distrust that Georgie and Grey worked to overcome. Grey appeared to fall first for Georgie and worked hard to earn her trust when they ended up in a forced marriage, and to respect her space and wishes. Georgie fell too, but she fought against it, being resentful of her loss of choice and autonomy. But the story of their relationship unfolding and the two of them coming together in their marriage was a lovely read.

4.25 stars out of 5
Profile Image for Fanosse23.
710 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
February 24, 2026
Just One Kiss is the first book in the Last Chance Academy series by Eileen Dreyer, and if this debut is any indication of what lies ahead, I am eagerly anticipating the rest of the series. This is my first time reading Eileen Dreyer, and I am delighted to have discovered her—her storytelling is engaging, heartfelt, and full of charm. I experienced a myriad of emotions while reading and loved every one of them.

Lady Georgianna Packham, or Georgie, has spent her life caring for others—her lively, boisterous family and those in need of the Fairy Godmothers’ discreet assistance. When a former classmate begs Georgie to help her escape an unwanted engagement, Georgie steps in without hesitation.

Grey, Marquess of Coleford, is a newly titled, battle-hardened soldier and guardian to two young nieces who have endured great upheaval. Seeking stability for them and a solution to his financial troubles, he enters into a betrothal of convenience. Georgie and her cousins devise a clever plan to release him from the engagement and rescue her classmate from a doomed match. But when a single, passionate kiss between Georgie and Grey is witnessed—and loudly proclaimed by her formidable aunt—a wedding becomes the only option.

What begins as a marriage of duty slowly evolves into something far deeper. Grey and Georgie find themselves building a partnership shaped by stolen laughter, unexpected tenderness, and a quiet courage neither expected. Yet when Grey is suddenly called back to military duty, Georgie must navigate the responsibilities of his household, care for his nieces, and confront the truth about her own heart. When tragedy strikes everything changes.

Eileen Dreyer weaves a story full of choices, devotion, and the curveballs life throws when least expected. Georgie’s journey—balancing her lifelong sense of duty with her desire for something all her own—is both tender and empowering. Grey’s understanding and support was heartfelt and true. Adding warmth and humor is the unforgettable grandmother, with her forthright wisdom and her bees, as well as the entire vibrant family that surrounds Georgie. Their presence makes the story feel alive and refreshingly real.

Just One Kiss is a captivating, emotional, and thoroughly enjoyable read. It’s a story of love, family, and resilience that left me smiling—and eager to return to the world of the Last Chance Academy.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Bridget Love to read Lewis.
2,530 reviews30 followers
Review of advance copy
February 22, 2026
Lady Georgianna Packham has spent her life caring for others—first surviving a brutal boarding school, then shouldering the needs of an endless family. Helping a former classmate end an unwanted engagement should be simple. It’s just another favor. Another wish granted.
It was chemistry, humor and attraction all in one breath. For someone that has taken care of everyone since she was 14 to have a war veteran and hero who also has been her crush as she has followed his military exploits for years.
Lord Peter Philpot Marsden Greyville, Marquess of Coleford aka Grey has met his match. She fearless, beautiful and one of the Kings sisters in the form of Georgianna aka Georgie aka Fairy Godmother her academy moniker has been tasked to end an engagement of one of her former school mates who is younger and far more immature than Georgie.
Grey and Georgie meet at a ball and exchange along with her cousins loud lamentations about his estates in Wales and the stage was set! You also throw in a very steamy kiss in the gardens and Georgie’s loud auntie reveal to half of London and you have a wedding!
It has to be said her full name was said in the compromise/scandal.
After being threatened by almost every single member of Georgie’s family young and old Grey had two and half days with his new wife before being sent to Paris on a mission for the crown!
When tragedy strikes Georgie was carry on now its two nieces in her care!
This story has laugh out loud moments and is very steamy and emotional in the end!
Can a 1week wonder with a 2.5 days of marriage survive such a tragedy? Definitely read this page turner nonstop! Excellent
I received an ARC copy from my Booksprout for my unbiased opinion.
4,277 reviews24 followers
March 5, 2026
This was a sweet and emotional Regency romance about two people who never expected to fall in love. Georgie has spent her whole life taking care of others, so when she tries to help a friend out of a bad engagement, she never imagines it will lead to her accidentally getting married herself.
Grey, the Marquess of Coleford, only wanted a practical marriage to solve his problems and help him care for the two young girls in his charge. Instead, he finds himself with Georgie, whose quiet strength and kindness slowly change his life.
I really enjoyed watching their relationship grow from obligation into something warm and genuine. Their partnership felt gentle and supportive, and the moments with the children added heart to the story. When Grey is called back to war, it brings emotional depth and makes Georgie’s growth even more meaningful.
Overall, this is a tender and comforting romance about duty, healing, and love appearing when you least expect it. A lovely read!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Stephanie Herron.
770 reviews11 followers
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
February 21, 2026
This is a book to read when you need a story that has witty dialogue, quirky and fun characters, and end with happily ever after. This is not to say it doesn't have depth as it deals with heavy subjects but with a very deft touch. Georgie is the lodestone that holds her family together which is both a gift and a burden. Grey is mostly out of the military due to circumstances making him an unexpected Marquess and in charge of two little girls who have lost everything and need love. Georgie attempts to break Grey's engagement to her fellow student from the Last Chance Academy only to find the plan gone awry. Now they must marry but first have to deal with her quirky but loving family. The story is charming, full of witty and fun characters, and found family and love.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
109 reviews3 followers
Review of advance copy
February 24, 2026
I "hate" books that deeply capture my heart. It's not fair. All that emotion and stuff is just so distracting from the real world (of other emotions and stuff). What is one to do?

Why read more, of course!

And so, that is what I did when I picked up "Just One Kiss." I absolutely loved Georgie and Grey's story. It swept me off my feet and into my comfy chair with my favorite coffee. It kept me up past my bedtime. It had me laughing and even got me a little teary-eyed.

I'd like to think I'm made of sterner stuff, but this one almost got me.

I can always count on Eileen Dreyer's talent for crafting a story that can sneak into my heart.

And I am so glad it did.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Nicole.
954 reviews17 followers
March 3, 2026
I really really struggled with this book.. it started out with a great storyline but at the end I was completely confused.. I still don't understand it.. but I did enjoy the banter with the siblings and cousins and how they were there for each other.. and the two little girls in this story tho they won my heart and then some with everything they went through but they stayed strong and stood by each other..

I plan on reading the next book.. and seeing if the next book is a bit better..

Please don't take my review and assume it's how you will feel.. everyone finds a book different than the next..

Thank you to both the author and the publisher for letting me read and review this story.
3,706 reviews18 followers
Review of advance copy
February 22, 2026
Georgie is determined to help a previous classmate who is betrothed to a military man who inherited a bankrupt Marquis estate and two little girls. Georgie is already used to taking charge and she has a large dowry but despite her attraction to Grey she doesn’t want to offer herself instead. But a scandalous kiss may take her choice out of her hands. I loved Grey’s precocious nieces and their protective dog who wanted someone to love them. I can understand why Georgie doesn’t want to run another household but she’s so good at and she seems like the type to be bored with not much to do. Her grandmother is a riot. This was a steamy historical romance.
Profile Image for Lesley.
2,515 reviews19 followers
February 24, 2026
4.5*
A managing young lady, tired of her family responsibilities, is not amused when a kiss finds her compromised. Just when she was hopeful that she could find a different way of life she finds herself tied to a newly minted marquess who comes with a host of responsibilities, including two little girls. A delightful story with a strong heroine and a charming hero. My only bugbear was why three soldiers were dispatched to London to tell a lady that she was a widow when in fact her husband, whilst seriously ill, was still alive. This was not adequately explained.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from Booksprout. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Michelle.
1,624 reviews17 followers
February 26, 2026
There was a point I was gonna be so upset at how I thought this story was going to end and then surprise. Read and you’ll understand. I absolutely love both Georgie and Grey. They are so perfectly suited to each other even with the unusual courtship. Those two sweet little Greyville girls aww they break your heart and fix it right up with their sweetness and shyness. The Archangels and the Kings of the Packams absolutely wonderful but Georgie she makes this story fabulous. A woman way ahead of her time and really quite brilliant. This hea was most assuredly deserved and earned!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Monica.
409 reviews8 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
February 21, 2026
I loved this book!

Georgie and her cousins are the Fairy Godmothers among the ton. They do what they can to help others locate missing items or fix minor issues.

However, a former classmate asks them to do the impossible - make sure she doesn’t have to marry a certain gentleman.

Georgie and her cousins agree to help. But none of them can predict how that will turn out!

I loved the strong characters and the humor. I can’t wait for the rest of the series!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Barbara.
19.3k reviews8 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
February 22, 2026
"Just One Kiss," the first book in the Last Chance Academy Regency romance series, follows the accidental marriage of Lady Georgianna Packham and Grey, the Marquess of Coleford. While Grey, a soldier and new guardian, seeks stability, the two develop a partnership rooted in tenderness. Their bond is tested when Grey returns to war, leaving Georgie to manage his responsibilities and confront her feelings. This story explores duty, devotion, and the courage to find love in unexpected circumstances. I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
98 reviews
February 28, 2026
This is a 2.5 for me

This book had such potential. I enjoy this author. I loved the Drake's Rakes series. There was was too much time spent on George's "humming" feelings. We should have had more about the little girls' past. The villains are not even 1dimensional (the grandmother, the steward), and were dealt with so easily that you wonder - why bother even including them? This is more a first draft, waiting for a good editor to help flesh out the characters (instead of the intimate scenes). Not sure if I will bother for the next books in the series.
Profile Image for NelleRenn.
1,040 reviews
February 28, 2026
The FMC comes from. Loud and quirky family. As she tries to help a friend get out of an engagement, she ends up getting married. Then the MMC gets called back to war and she is left with the estate and two orphaned nieces to look after. I enjoyed the story and especially liked the grandmother and the girls.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Jessica.
989 reviews11 followers
Review of advance copy
February 22, 2026
She wants her independence to make her own choice. He needs more than financial assistance with his unexpected inheritance. Who knew one kiss could upend their lives and achieve their HEA and everyone around them. Wonderful, entertaining read.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Aj.
2,514 reviews
Review of advance copy
February 19, 2026
A favor and one kiss that changes everything and leads to a forever love. An engaging and heart warming story with characters that shine. Georgianna and Grey are wonderful and deserving of happiness and love.
1,123 reviews12 followers
February 26, 2026
Married by accident bound by duty, two strangers find themselves married and navigating their new norm as they adjust to thrir new dynamic as a family of four, until war cells him back. Can Grey and Georgie survive the trials and tribulations ahead of them.
459 reviews3 followers
February 28, 2026
This is my first read by this author. Her work is fun, quirky and wholly entertaining. Good characters with average plot. What makes it is the humor and witty comments.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
6,192 reviews30 followers
March 3, 2026
Carriage of convenience…

Grey, newly titled and now a parent, seeks a marriage of convenience with Georgie. Neither one has expectations beyond duty. But these two dig each other.
Recommend.
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews

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