The Marquess Who Kissed Me (Valiant Love #14) by Deborah Wilson

The conversations between these two characters are delightful and hurtful. Both are trying to protect their hearts, without giving of themselves. When Oliver and Belle try to make a concerted effort to truly know one another. Oliver finds himself withdrawing away from Belle. Belle knew at one time, but that was before her mother died and her father sold her into slavery. Belle finally understands as they attempt to know each other that Oliver doesn't know what love is. What Oliver doesn't understand and Belle realizes that Oliver needs to be unconditionally loved. Love always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails. 1 Corinthians 13:7-8.