I'm prejudiced, I admit. I rarely read category romance, the most formulaic sub-genre of romance. This one I bought years ago, mainly because it was well reviewed at some romance blog (SBTB or DA, most likely) and I found Krahn's The Husband Test quite entertaining. It took me awhile to pick this book up, but I'm glad I finally did.

Mariah Eller, an inn owner and a widow, catches the eye of the heir apparent. The prince prefers his mistresses married, and Jack St. Lawrence is put in charge of finding a husband to the widow. Mariah is reluctant to marry. She lures Jack on a journey to find a suitable man - who turns out to be none other than himself, of course.

Yes, there's a formula. But within that formula Krahn manages to write fully fleshed characters and a story that keeps you both entertained and slightly worried over the outcome. The plot isn't the most believable one, but whatever flaws it has are fully made up with a lovely (and sexy) romance. ( )

I really love how Krahn stays true to the times she writes about. The storyline here was unique and though a bit uncomfortable at times, I was impressed overall. The heroine was refreshing. Though she was backed into a corner she really did her best to make the situation work for her.

The hero seemed like a stick in the mud, but watching his passion come unleashed was worth the wait. ( )

I got this as part of an e-book bundle and it is by far my favorite of the three. Mariah is one of my new fave heroines. Funny, witty, and sexy. ( )