"Lively Regency Romp"

In THE GOLDEN FEATHER, Amanda McCabe has created two characters that are both intrepid and delightful. When Caroline Aldritch's wastrel husband dies and leaves her destitute she is driven to exploit the one asset he left her. Shortly before his untimely death Aldritch had won the deed to a gaming house, The Golden Feather. Caroline adopts the name Mrs. Archer, dons a mask and wig and for four years runs the gaming house very successfully.

Having secured a fortune for herself and her younger sister, Caroline decides to sell the gaming club. The night before she is due to sell and leave London, Lord Lyndon enters and she is immediately drawn to him.

Lyndon who was a wastrel as a youth and after a scandal causing a duel, was sent to India by his irate father. Lyndon has both suffered and prospered in India. He has returned to England to pick up the responsibilities of an Earl, due to the death of his father and older brother.

Lyndon is attracted to Mrs. Archer, but knows she is completely unsuitable for a responsible Earl. Reluctantly, he agrees to take his mother to the seaside for a vacation. The Lyndon entourage quickly becomes friendly with Mrs. Aldritch and her exuberant younger sister. Lyndon is attracted to Caroline even though at first she rebuffs his every overture. His younger brother Harry is drawn to Caroline's younger sister and the older pair has their hands full with their siblings.

At first, Caroline is terrified that Lyndon will recognize her, but she is drawn to him and takes a chance that he will not recognize her.

Watching this duo fall in love while at the same time managing impulsive younger siblings is just pure fun. Amanda McCabe puts some fun twists into the traditional Regency format and this is a quick and enjoyable read.

Reviewed by Linda Hurst
Posted January 29, 2003