I was reading through NPR's Happy Ever After: 100 Swoon-Worthy Romances, and for the most part, I agree with the list and am happy to find some of my favorites: Julie James, Nora Roberts, Joanna Bourne, and Jennifer Ashley.
I really enjoy Grace Burrowes' Windham series, but none of her subsequent series have tempted me enough to start reading. So, when I saw The Captive on the list, I decided it was time to give it a try. It also fits nicely with this other NPR article, Don't Know Much About History? Read A Romance.
Christian Severn, Duke of Mercia, has returned to England after months of torture and suffering at the hands of the French during the Napoleonic Wars. While in captivity, his wife and heir both passed away. As he tries to acclimate to the day-to-day duties of a duke while also regaining his health, he is faced with the will of Gillian, Countess of Greendale. Gilly is a cousin to the duke's late wife and she wants to ensure he does not forget about his surviving daughter. The countess is not without her own torments. She is finding her way after the loss of her much older and controlling husband.
What I enjoyed most about the book, and possibly what placed it on the 100 list, is the relationship between Gilly and Christian. There are moments of humor and sadness, but it is entertaining to watch the growth and healing of both characters.
To read the other books in the series, pick up The Traitor and The Laird. For other Regency romances, try Romancing the Duke, Nine Rules to Break When Romancing A Rake, or Secrets for Seducing A Royal Bodyguard.