Two oddly similar books set in different time periods and with entirely different subplots. Also, I did some more choosing books by covers here and intentionally NOT reading the description.
6) Wager for a Wife by Karen Tuft Regency era, maybe late regency. Turns out Louisa's grandfather lost her in a wager long before she was even born and William, who just inherited a failing estate - and Louisa, comes to claim his prize. Louisa agrees out of duty. This was very ... predictable? No, that's not it. I have no idea how to describe this book without giving too much away.
7) Eleanor and the Iron King by Julie Daines Medieval era, based on descriptions of clothing. Eleanor's dad has just bartered her as part of a peace treaty to a Welsh guy whose name - and just about everything related to him - is difficult to pronounce. She agrees out of duty (and also because she has no choice in the matter). This was very ... unpredictable! And in an awesomely good way. Just when I think I had things figured out, I didn't. It was also very gothic feeling, which I love.
"Oh my gosh! Authors really do use particular words on purpose!" ~Me, when I started writing a book.
