"Another quick-paced, witty and humorous tale from this talented author!"

Gwendolyn Townsend's life was turned upside down after the death of her father, when she learned his estate was to go to a distant cousin and she was, essentially, penniless. Not one to dither about indecisively, Gwen gathered her few belongings and set out to make her way in the world. However, her chosen profession of governess was less than suitable for the determined 16-year-old.

For five years, she's traveled from family to family, until a summons from her father's solicitor brings her back to London. A mistake was made. While she did not inherit her father's estate, she was left a small home in the country and a small income, enough to meet the needs of a single woman. However, if she marries the man her father picked for her before his death, she'll receive a dowry and substantial settlement. Having seen less than stellar examples of married life in the many families she worked for, Gwen is content to take the home and small income and forgo marriage and fortune, thank you very much!

Marcus Holcroft, the eighth Earl of Pennington, has enjoyed his life to date. It comes as a shock to learn that prior to his father's death, the previous earl changed his will. If Marcus doesn't marry by his 30th birthday, he'll lose his entire fortune. Not only that, his mother will also lose everything. While not thrilled at the prospect of marriage to the woman his father has picked out, Marcus admires the man's ingenuity. He will at least meet the woman before making any plans about his future.

Gwen and Marcus do meet, and while Marcus is pleased with his father's choice, Gwen is not and refuses his offer of marriage. Marcus is not one to give up easily, however, and is determined to win the hand of the lovely, independent Gwen. It's only when Gwen discovers she has three orphaned nieces that she reluctantly agrees to marry Marcus.

Ms. Alexander has a gift for humor that's evident throughout this book. Her characters are likable, and their growth during the story is believable. The dialog between the characters moves the story along at a quick and witty pace. I was unable to put this book down and look forward to reading other books by this author!

Reviewed by Paula Myers
Courtesy Old Book Barn Gazette
Posted March 15, 2003