"Winning the Gentleman" by Kristi Ann Hunter - Hearts on the Heath, book 2

Aaron Whitworth hasn't had control over most aspects of his life, but he's always taken pride in being an honorable businessman and better-than-average horseman. When both of those claims are threatened, he makes the desperate decision to hire the horse trainer of a traveling circus as a temporary jockey for his racehorses. Sophia Fitzroy knows that most horsemen don't take her seriously because she's a woman, but she can't pass up the opportunity to get away from the tumultuous world of travel and performing. As she fights for the right to do the work she was hired for, she learns the fight for Aaron's guarded heart might be an even more worthwhile challenge. Will Aaron and Sophia sacrifice their former dreams and forge a new one together--against all odds?

I am so glad to finally have Aaron's story, after meeting him four books ago and getting to know him better in the previous book! Since he is the illegitimate yet acknowledged son of an aristocrat, he doesn't quite fit in anywhere; he's always on the fringes, a position that I think a lot of people can relate to. But he is a great guy. Definitely has some hang-ups and issues to work through, but I thoroughly enjoyed his story. 

I got quite a kick out of Sophia's inability to stop talking, but she has much more to recommend her as well: she's brave, fun, and not afraid to acknowledge when she needs help. The supporting cast was wonderful as well, with lots of old friends from previous books. Makes me want to start rereading Hunter's books from the beginning!

As usual, I loved the humor of Hunter's novel, balanced beautifully with an engaging story full of heart.  I can't wait for her next book! I'm hoping it will be about the eccentric Harriet and/or good-hearted Lord Rigsby . . .

Thank you Bethany House and NetGalley for the complimentary e-book. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions are my own.

Hearts on the Heath
1. Vying for the Viscount
2. Winning the Gentleman

Related series: (Chronologically Hawthorne House comes first, Haven Manor second, and then Hearts on the Heath)

Hawthorne House
0.5 "A Lady of Esteem" - a free novella introduction to the Hawthornes and friends!
1. A Noble Masquerade
2. An Elegant Facade
3. An Uncommon Courtship
4. An Inconvenient Beauty

Haven Manor
0.5: "A Search for Refuge" (free prequel e-novella)
1. A Defense of Honor
2. A Return of Devotion

3. A Pursuit of Home 

3.5: "Legacy of Love" (published in The Christmas Heirloom novella collection)