The Sum of all Kisses is a 2013 historical romance, published by Avon. I received a copy of this book from the publisher and Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review.
Hugh Prentice is the only son his father can count on to produce an heir. So when Hugh, a math whiz, gets a little drunk and starts playing cards with a group of men who have also had too much to drink, the night ends in a ridiculous duel. Hugh takes a bullet in the leg. His father is so angry he vows to kill the man who shot his son, and most likely ruined his chances for a grandchild.
It took a few years, but Hugh finally convinced his father to back off.
Now three years later, the man that crippled Hugh, Daniel Smythe-Smith, is getting married. Hugh and Daniel had long ago put the past behind them and are now friends again. Hugh must make an appearance to all the pre-wedding celebrations and dinners as well as the wedding.
Unfortunately, this puts him in direct contact with Sarah Pleinsworth, Daniel's cousin. Sarah blames Hugh for the scandal that caused Daniel to flee and Sarah to miss her fist season. Now she must be polite and social with Hugh for the sake of her family.
The first encounters between Hugh and Sarah were hilarious. They traded stinging barbs and bickered incessantly. Both of them strongly disliking the other. However, once they were forced to spend a little time together they each realized what the other has suffered as a result of the duel. Hugh considered himself damaged goods, and Sarah was convinced she could have been married by now if she hadn't been forced to miss her debut season. But, Sarah soon learns that her miseries are nothing in comparison to what Hugh lives with everyday. Soon, the two are seeing the other one in a different light and both of them like what they see.
Naturally, there are complications. Hugh has a few secrets that could prevent the two from having their unlikely happy ever after.
Julia Quinn has been at this for awhile. Some books are better than others, that's to be expected. However, I've yet to be disappointed with one of her books. This one was no exception. I loved Hugh! What a great guy. He was smart, funny, and honorable. He had a difficult childhood, a monster for a father, and now must live in pain for the remainder of his life because of stupid mistake.
Sarah's anger evaporated quickly once she got to know Hugh. Any immature grudges she may have harbored disappeared as she took it upon herself to right the wrongs of the past once and for all.
A very funny, romantic, sweet Regency period romance. I must also mention the cover art on this one. The dress was beautiful and I loved the color contrast.
Overall this is an A+ for me. I loved it!
