Question M

[Jonetta]

Rhys intervenes in Helen’s attempt to run away and Vance’s attempt to kidnap them both. Learning of Helen’s paternity didn’t alter his desire to marry her. Were you prepared for this reaction or did it come as a surprise?

[Anita]

I was surprised. His hate for Vance was fierce and I just didn't see him setting that aside, even if he loved Helen.

[Phrynne]

I had to assume that when he told Helen of his hatred of Vance he exaggerated a little. He certainly gave up on it quickly when he wanted to keep her!

[Sharon]

I was surprised that he put it aside so quickly. I expected a heated debate even though I knew he loved Helen more than he hated Vance.

[Jonetta]

I’d come to expect better of Rhys and always thought he’d have an open heart to Helen, despite her paternity. This is a man who judges people by their character, not their heritage. No matter what he said about Vance’s child by Ioan, he’d never disabuse a little girl.

[Robin]

I think in most historical romances, Rhys would learn about Helen's paternity and break their engagement, only to realize weeks later that he really loved her. I'm so glad Lisa Kleypas didn't go down that path. Rhys didn't even blink when she told him the truth. He was in love with Helen and wouldn't turn her away. He also would never send a child back to the orphan's home where she was living.

[Jonetta]

You are so right, Robin! Kleypas didn’t waste our time and bore us to death with that kind of storyline. This was so much better.

[Sharon]

I agree Robin. I enjoyed this story more because we didn't have to go through another breakup.

[Karen ♐]

I agree too, Robin. I was really hoping we wouldn’t have to go through Rhys rejecting Helen and then working to win her back.