"fine zany historical romance"

Meredith Merriwether asks the driver of the hot air balloon to get closer so she can research her treatise on rakes with a close up look at how Alexander Lamont behaves towards Giselle the courtesan she hired to accost him. However, the balloon gets too close to the trees and is punctured. Alexander catches Meredith when she falls, but before he could question her or her compatriots she fakes fainting. Alexander carries her home.

Her Aunts Leticia and Viola Featherton argue with Meredith that her rescuer is a reformed rake, but she insists that is impossible. Two years ago a rake left her at the altar and so now she writes the guide to warn other innocent girls to beware of rakes.

Alex's dad informs him though his motives were honorable he compromised Meredith and will have to marry her. Surprisingly the concept does not disturb Alex. He comes to see her, but she informs him that she is betrothed to Mr. Arthur Chillton. Alex does not plan to let that get in his way of marrying Meredith; however, she remains stubborn that a rake is a rake by any other name.

The Featherton sisters (see RULES OF ENGAGEMENT and LADY IN WAITING) are their usual outrageous selves and with their niece's antics make this somewhat typical Regency starring a reformed rake quite amusing and refreshing. The lead couple is a fine pairing as she loathes rakes and considers him the poster boy for rakes. Readers will enjoy this fine historical romance due to the zany cast.

Harriet Klausner

Reviewed by Harriet Klausner
Posted August 25, 2005