"A fun Regency with clever plot and likable characters."

After a grueling trip across the Atlantic with her younger sister, Maggie arrives in London ready to take possession of her late husband's home. Maggie hopes that returning to her Royalist parents' homeland will improve her precarious situation. Her choice of Lord Warwick as a husband had proved disastrous. The scoundrel left her not only penniless, but humiliated her by dying in a brothel. Upon arriving at Warwick house, Maggie discovers he also lied about his identity.

Edward, Earl of Warwick, awakens to females invading his home. Edward recently inherited the earldom after his reclusive relative died. Calming the beautiful, but hysterical woman, Edward realizes the culprit's identity. Lawrence Henshaw, an Englishman spying for the French, impersonated the earl just before fleeing England. With some misgivings, Edward, who works for the Foreign Office, extends his home to Maggie.

As poverty looms over Maggie's head, she implores Edward to help her find a husband. Edward, drawn to the vexing creature, reluctantly agrees. When attempts are made on Maggie's life, it's apparent she unknowingly has information the French want. Working together to get the answers, Maggie and Edward try to ignore the sparks between them. Edward is betrothed to another, and honor will not allow him to break the engagement.

This is a fun read with likable characters and a clever plot. Readers enjoying a forthright, strong heroine will love Maggie. And Edward proves to be the perfect counterpoint. A pleasant read!

Reviewed by Suan Wilson
Posted December 20, 2004