"Exciting nineteenth century romantic intrigue"

Inventor Professor Michael Rowen breaks the heart of Helena Cabot because he believes she, as the daughter of the most powerful US Senator, would never marry him. Pregnant with Michael's child, Helena turns to New York's Junior Senator Troy Barnes. They forge a loveless marriage of convenience that has fooled the international upper crust into believing this couple shares the perfect matrimony.

Almost a decade later, two events destroy the Barnes couple alliance. First her father dies leaving Helena with no protector. Second Troy learns that William is not from his seed. Fearing retribution for herself and her son from her authoritative abusive husband, Helena tries to obtain a divorce, but no attorney will go up against Troy. Desperate she flees to Upstate New York and opens a woman's shelter, but also turns to Michael for help. Though neither trusts one another William is Michael's son and Helena, knowing Troy has a rep to maintain, is coming.

Names aside (Helena and Troy!), ENCHANTED AFTERNOON is an exciting nineteenth century romantic intrigue that provides readers with a vivid look at the plight of women in a society granting no rights. The story line is fast-paced once the key cast members are introduced so that the reader understands how they react to tribulations. Though how Troy hid his true colors from his spouse even if she lived in Sarasota Springs while he in Georgetown for much of that time seems a stretch, the audience will relish Susan Wiggs delightful historical tale.

Harriet Klausner

Reviewed by Harriet Klausner
Posted August 15, 2002

Summary

With a deft hand and a unique voice, acclaimed author Susan Wiggs creates an enchanting story that will take your breath away as it reaffirms the power of love and the magic of forgiveness.

Helena Cabot married for all the wrong reasons-and discovered that her husband is a dangerous man. Fearing for her safety, she ends her marriage and flees to legendary Moon Lake Lodge in Saratoga Springs. And there she finds the courage within to become the woman she was meant to be.

But Helena can't outrun her past. She turns to Michael Rowan, a man she once loved but lost. A brilliant inventor, Michael is still ruggedly handsome, still defiantly unconventional. And Michael has just discovered a shattering truth and a reason to stay and fight for the woman he once lost.