When I received a request to review an ARC for an honest opinion, I conducted a bit of research about Jolie Vines, as she was a new author to me. I found out quickly that she is a new author to everyone. Love Most, Say Least is Vines's second book. If it's any indication of her forthcoming books, she will quickly become a beloved author.
Love Most, Say Least (one of the best titles as it comes from a Tennyson poem) follows James and Beth, two people from different worlds. James has been groomed to inherit an earldom, while Beth was raised in a foster family. Both of them have been hurt by their life circumstances, and they carry so much "baggage" between the two of them. James has been shut down emotionally by his family's tragic circumstances and his uncle's neglect. Beth has grown to both fear and distrust attachments because everyone in her life leaves or dies. When they find each other, it fills a hole in each of them, causing some internal struggles but providing an eventual HEA, only after some drama.
From the start, Beth exhibits the model traits of a strong woman who has endured the difficulties of life. She worries about her friend and her former foster mother, making various sacrifices to ensure they are cared for. She is an h to admire, even though her internal dialogue frustrates the reader. She is also responsible for bringing life into James's life.
I loved James. He carries so many wounds that he's awkward. It makes the reader uncomfortable for him because he is so emotionally stunted. However, Beth breathes life into him, and he quickly becomes endearing as he shows his care for her. He willing makes distinct changes in his life, so it can accommodate Beth, readily healing her.
The McRaes lend guidance and humor, also softening James's demeanor. I haven't read the first book in this series (I plan to read it soon), and I am looking forward to future books with this clan because these guys are sexy and fierce.
There is much to love about the story. My favorite romances are ones where both the H and h undergo significant changes to honor their love. While there is a bit of angst in this story, it isn't more than the reader can handle, and the ending is satisfying.
Overall, Jolie Vines is starting strong with her latest book. It has a swoon-worthy hero in James, a strong loving heroine in Beth, a cadre of interesting ancillary characters, and a story that reminds the reader that love can overcome any past.