"Second Duncan sister's tale is enjoyable."

Lady Prudence, of the enterprising Duncan sisters, manages the finances of the controversial broadsheet, Mayfair Lady. The publication deals with fashion, gossip, and more importantly, is a political forum on women's issues. A recent exposé on a peer has resulted in a libel suit against the anonymous owners. Prudence is chosen to hire a barrister.

Sir Gideon Malvern rarely loses his cases. But he has no interest in representing Prudence. Declining her suit with disdain, Gideon beholds her startling transformation from dowdy mouse to opinionated fireball. Amazed by this chameleon, Gideon surprises himself by accepting the case. He finds it astounding that an ill-tempered suffragette arouses him. And Prudence can't believe she's attracted to a man whose opinions and beliefs are so diametrically opposite of her own. However, love does appear where least expected.

This second book in a trilogy explores the changing role of men and women at the turn of the century. Prudence is not a reserved virginal miss, but a woman who questions every action, while Gideon represents a man who's a divorced single father. Readers won't have to wait long for the third sister's tale, which follows next month.

Reviewed by Suan Wilson
Courtesy Old Book Barn Gazette
Posted February 16, 2004

Summary

Hailed for her captivating blend of romance and sensuality, New York Times bestselling author Jane Feather has enchanted readers and critics alike. In this second book in her dazzling new trilogy, Constance, Prudence, and Chastity Duncan, London's most charming young matchmakers, are faced with a ruinous lawsuit—and it's up to the brainy, beautiful middle sister to extricate them.No sooner had the Duncan sisters' Personals service turned a profit than their controversial newspaper, The Mayfair Lady, offended a powerful earl—who is now determined to ruin them with a lawsuit. In dire need of counsel, the women turn to England's most-sought-after young barrister.Sir Gideon Malvern is notorious for his aggressive style—and his love of a challenge. Spirited Prudence, with her beauty unsuccessfully hidden behind spectacles and frumpy clothes, provides him with exactly that. But how in the world will the Duncan sisters be able to afford Gideon's fee? Prudence proposes a barter: Gideon defends their case; they find him a bride. It's an exchange of services even this most cynical, single barrister can't refuse.