England - 1882 and 1893

Gigi Rowland fell in love with Camden Saybrook, Lord Tremaine, the first time she saw him. Outgoing, bold, and used to getting her own way, Gigi will do anything to snare the handsome young man. And does. She pays the price the day after their wedding when Camden leaves her. Her heart broken, with painful regrets about what happened, Gigi proceeds to live her own life, growing rich, but remaining lonely, taking lovers who mean nothing to her, until she meets the younger Lord Frederick. Will he help her forget her past?

Camden, who has spent the past eleven years building his business in New York City, is back in England after receiving a legal request to grant Gigi a divorce. Is this what she really wants? Camden wants to know for sure, hoping against hope that she doesn't. But his reception at her house is chilly, until he makes her a deal. Will she accept? And how will her intended feel about the agreement?

For eleven years, London society was under the impression that the Tremaines had a perfect marriage. After all, despite their separation, there had been not a whiff of discord whispered about the two. Society knows nothing of their marriage, though, and Gigi prefers to keep it that way, despite causing ripples of talk with her wish for a divorce. Her painful memories come flying back with Camden's presence, and his ridiculous bargain. Can she control her heart? She has no idea how difficult this "reunion" is for her husband either.

PRIVATE ARRANGEMENTS is a lovely, poignant story about a couple who, with just a little honesty, could have prevented the rift that kept them apart for eleven years. Could it be too late after so many hurtful things are said and done? Gigi is outspoken, but inside has many doubts about her decisions, while Camden's lashing out may hide his true feelings for his wife. Gigi's mother's antics make for a delightful background story, tempering some of the sadness.

Realistic, well-rounded characters, and a unique premise make for a terrific read. PRIVATE ARRANGEMENTS is well-written and nicely researched. Once readers meet Gigi and Camden, they won't want to put this book down.

Jani Brooks