Review: Song for Sophia (Rougemont #1) by Moriah Densely

Print Length: 300 pages

Publisher: EsKape Press (September 23, 2013)

From Goodreads.com: To win a man’s heart, a woman must have the mind of a diplomat, a general, and Cleopatra, all in one.

Desperation has led Anne-Sophia Duncombe to a life of exile. Still, she is always just one mistake away from capture and a marriage she would rather die than endure. As a last resort to remain hidden from her former life, Sophia attempts a radical scheme; a life of humility and disguise.

Rumor has it Wilhelm Montegue, the Earl of Devon, is insane. A tormented war hero haunted by scandal, he is only tolerated because of his brilliant mind and swarthy good looks. His unmentionable “condition” which keeps him confined to his country home is also the source of his talent for composing music.

When a new housemaid is hired at Rougemont, Lord Devon is perplexed to find himself fascinated by her. He knows the exquisite beauty is keeping secrets but her siren’s voice draws him ever closer, and he can’t resist the intoxicating scent of danger surrounding her.

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 My Rating: 5 stars out of 5

There was so much about this novel that made me fall in love with it! To start, the main character Wilhelm Montegue has a form of autism. This is the first time that I've ever read a novel where the hero was plagued by a disability of this type, and I found that Ms. Densely captured it perfectly. The main heroine had also been subject to abuse of her own, such that would have made a weaker woman cower, and yet she found the determination to keep going. 

Throughout this novel, you suffered with him and Anne-Sophia as they not only found their way together, but found a way to make their relationship work. I was not only completely won over by the two leads and their "ghosts", but I was also completely enamored with their companions AKA the dogs Wilhelm kept on his property. More than once, I saw something of my own loyal dogs in them, and they just kept clawing their way into my heart until they earned a mention in my review as well. The way that they defended Sophia was nothing short of heroic. 

There was romance to this novel, but it wasn't "just another romance" in my eyes as it also contained drama, angst, and a whole lot of page turning suspense. Would their love be enough or would the circumstances seemingly piled against them be enough to triumph? 

Filled with witty dialog, characters you can't help but love, and unexpected events at every turn, Song for Sophia is a novel that is sure to please! Ms. Densely has definitely earned a new fan in me and I can't wait to read more from her! 

NOTE: I received a complimentary copy of this novel in return for my honest review. This does not in any way reflect upon my review. All thoughts/opinions of this novel are 100% my own.

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Song for Sophia (Rougemont #1) is available from Amazon.com