"Another classic in this latest foray into the lives of the Effingtons."

Lady Elizabeth Effington has spent years hiding her true independent, intelligent nature. Even so, Sir Nicholas Collingsworth sees through her act and loves the woman he knows her to be. Even so, everyone, including Nicholas, believes Elizabeth in love with Nicholas' best friend, Charles. Unwilling to come between the two, Nicholas drives Elizabeth away and goes off to America to make his fortune.

Ten years later, Elizabeth is a widow with two young sons and Nicholas has returned to London a success. In the years since her husband's death, Elizabeth has assumed control of the estate finances, managing to make a modest profit in the process. It comes as a shock to discover that Charles has left Nicholas in charge of his finances. Finding herself under the control of another man, especially one who rejected her so cruelly years earlier, is intolerable. Elizabeth is more than ready to match wits with Nicholas in order to regain control of her life.

Ms. Alexander has another hit in this latest foray into the lives of the Effingtons! While paying homage to the wonderful Dickens' novel, A Christmas Carol, she weaves a delightful tale of love rediscovered for a couple of strong, determined and witty people. Nicholas and Elizabeth are my favorite characters to date, and I chuckled aloud at the creative and humorous exchanges in their encounters.

Reviewed by Paula Myers
Posted November 17, 2004

Summary

Everyone knows that an Effington always gets her way...but this time it's not going to be easy! Lady Elizabeth Effington simply could not suitably feel the joy of the Christmas season. Ten years had passed since she had boldly declared her love for Sir Nicholas Collingsworth. He rebuffed her and set out to seek his fortunes, while Elizabeth was left a woman scorned. Now, she discovers in horror that the inheritance she's managed beautifully was never hers to control. No, power over her finances lay in the hands of the last man she ever wants to see again: Nicholas! But running Elizabeth's life isn't part of Nick's plans. He's intrigued when he discovers that the frivolous and flighty girl he once knew has turned into a beautiful and capable woman. Nick vows to woo - and win - her, and while she seems unmoved by his fervent seduction, he swears he will not rest until she accepts that most precious gift of all - the gift of love.