"intriguing Regency romance"

In 1816 Amyas St. Ives tells his best friend Daffyd that he is going home to Cornwell to find out who were his biological parents. Because of the uniqueness of his Christian name and that he comes from the area, he has hopes in succeeding. He also plans to find a wife higher in station than him, which Daffyd reminds him is not saying much. Daffyd also states that they are brothers and have been since they were sent overseas as preteen convicts and says he will be there for him when he returns to London.

At the Jolly Eel in Cornwell Amyas meets Hugo Tremellyn who invites him to lunch and a chat about his similar sounding first name. At lunch the next day Amyas meets Hugo's daughters, his biological child Grace and the orphaned Amber who came from the sea. Amyas is attracted to Amber, but she is his equal and that is not good enough for him although she cherishes how he treats her like a person even if she wants more from him like his heart.

As with its predecessor The RETURN OF THE EARL, ALAS MY LOVE is an intriguing Regency romance starring a wonderful protagonist and his perfect counterpoint though he prefers it was not so. The story line in some ways is more like an amateur sleuth as Amyas follows red herrings and false leads to learn the truth about his heritage. A final twist adds a fabulous climax to a wonderful historical.

Harriet Klausner

Reviewed by Harriet Klausner
Posted March 14, 2005

Summary

Passion rarely plays by society's rules ...

He was a penniless street urchin who, through sheer will and courage, became a man of means. Yet wealth, charm and good looks will not gain Amyas St. Ives entry into the ton's inner circle. For that he needs a proper wellborn bride -- not the enchanting miss who has lately stolen his heart.

Amber also knows little of her past before she was taken in as ward of a respectable family. Though the gentleman is courting her adoptive sister, Amber can feel his eyes constantly on her. And when his lips meet hers, she is nearly overcome with a desire to melt into his embrace. But the secrets that shadow their histories make a union between them impossible -- unless they dare seek a truth that could either destroy their dreams or finally sweep away the barriers to their passion.