"Author's Regency romance debut provides mystery, adventure and witty repartee."

As a caricaturist who specializes in satirizing the nobility, Calliope Minton devises different roles that gain her entrance into society. Her usual disguises keep her in the background where she receives a wealth of material. However, Calliope needs a new role, since she lost her last post due to her tart tongue. Aided by her adopted sister and friends, Calliope masquerades as a courtesan. It promises to give her a new perspective on society and its shallowness. An added bonus is that Calliope's favorite subject, the arrogant James Trenton, who unfortunately causes her blood to race, will attend most of the functions.

James Trenton, Marquess of Angelford, spies Calliope at the opera as his good friend's mistress. Even without her dowdy clothes and demeanor, James would recognize those expressive eyes anywhere. It puzzles him why a former ladies' companion is now a gorgeous courtesan. Could she be involved with a spy ring that James and his friend, Stephen, are attempting to uncover? James engages Calliope in a battle of wits in which she challenges and fascinates him.

Calliope and James collaborate when Stephen disappears and death threats emerge. The absorbing plot races along with Calliope and James succumbing to their attraction to one another between adventures. But Calliope's secret life as the caricaturist who ridiculed James may end their fledging relationship.

Debut author Anne Mallory has an engaging voice that will appeal to fans of Amanda Quick and Elizabeth Thornton. Mystery, adventure and witty repartee will keep readers turning pages to the surprising final twist of the tale.

Reviewed by Suan Wilson
Posted September 20, 2004