Engrossing from the very beginning, THE MARRIAGE BARGAIN tells the story of Emma Chambers who marries the Earl of Kellworth, Spencer Keenan, in order to escape the dreadful marriage her status hungry mother seeks.  However, Spencer wants to keep it in name only.  He has no desire to run the estate and be a gentleman farmer after his brother's death, which he feels responsible for.  So, he marries her, then leaves for three years, completely unaware of what is taking place at home. 

Emma has endured slowly deteriorating times over the past three years while trying to find ways to keep the servants fed, losing those she could afford to let go and trying her best to keep up with the repairs.  Letters asking Spencer for help go unanswered and the money never arrives.  Only when a life-altering duel sends Spencer home in a coffin do matters turn in a different course. 

Believed dead, Spence's friends bring him home in a coffin for burial at Kellworth.  Only Emma has the fortitude to look inside to make sure that is actually her husband inside.  She discovers that he is alive, much to the shock and horror of his friends.  After a somewhat lengthy recovery, Spencer slowly realizes what has happened over the past few years.  How can he make it up to his wife, who is filled with bitterness and anger over his neglect?  Once he begins on a path of discovery as to the estate fortune, he realizes that someone is willing to go to great lengths to make sure he gets buried at Kellworth after all. 

A thoroughly enjoyable romance, THE MARRIAGE BARGAIN is filled with intrigue and suspense as to who wants Spence dead, as well as Spence's inward discovery as to why he doesn't want to be at Kellworth.  His love for Emma starts to slowly evolve and Ms. Perkins does an excellent job of making his transformation believable.  The sexual tension between Emma and Spence is rewarding as well as the love scenes between them.  Even the "who dunnit" is gripping without overtaking the romance.  I found this a wonderful read and will be seeking out future books by Diane Perkins - hopefully about the other two friends who seem to be great candidates for their own stories.