"Entreating early twentieth century romance"

President Teddy Roosevelt worries about a Russian plot against the United States so he sends self made Texas millionaire Josh Cantrell, heir to an English Earldom, to England to learn what he can amidst the aristocracy. Josh meets Lady Sabrina Edgewater, who needs money to go to school. They cut a deal. He will pay her to teach him to behave like a gentleman so he can gain entry anywhere amongst the upper crust.

Though on a mission that he has not lost sight of, Josh enjoys shamming Sabrina into believing he is a red neck cowboy. In fact, he knows how to behave in any circle, but is having so much fun with Sabrina he cannot resist tricking her. However, as they fall in love and his presidential assignment places her in danger, Josh knows he is not fooling around when it comes to Sabrina's safety.

This entreating early twentieth century romance brings to life the beginning of the end of the aristocratic rule of England though the antics of the lead couple. He is a brash American while she is a Lady in need of money to attend school as a means of bettering herself. The story line is at its best when Josh pretends to be a bonehead because he enjoys teasing his beloved after meeting her during a dock side brawl. The late intrigue adds tension, but seems unnecessary as the cast makes this a wonderful historical tale of manners.

Harriet Klausner

Reviewed by Harriet Klausner
Posted September 30, 2004