"fun Regency"

Everyone knows how dangerous Lady Clarissa Crambray can be as the clumsy beauty has a tendency to accidentally harm her suitors and herself; just ask Lord Prudhomme about his roasted wig. However, as she trips, falls, and bruises herself and others, Clarissa knows the problem can be simply fixed if her wicked stepmother would allow her to wear her spectacles in public. Apparently pratfalls and the nickname "Clumsy Clarissa" are more acceptable than glasses for lasses.

Earl Adrian Montfort has avoided the Ton since his war earned scars leave him imperfect. He figures that Clarissa is ideal for him as her vision is poor and thus she would not see his marks. As he falls in love with the intelligent, forthright and witty Clarissa, Adrian is shocked that she cannot only see deep into the disfigurements of his heart, she is the cure.

This is a fun Regency starring a delightful pairing of two matched individuals with both having physical "scars". Still together Clarissa and Adrian overcome their demons, the wicked stepmother, and a killer (unnecessary well written subplot that does add suspense) as he proves to her guys do makes passes at girls who wear glasses and she teaches him love can heal any wound. Sub-genre fans will enjoy this fine historical.

Harriet Klausner

Reviewed by Harriet Klausner
Posted August 8, 2006

Summary

He's been warned that Lady Clarissa Crambray is dangerous. Stomping on toes and burning piffles, the chestnut-haired beauty is clearly a force with which to be reckoned. But for Adrian Montfort, Earl of Mowbray, this is just the challenge he needs. He can handle one woman and her "unfortunate past." Can any woman handle him?

Lady Clarissa Crambray wants a husband, but maybe not as much as her stepmother wants one for her. Doffing her spectacles might make a girl prettier, but how will she see? Yet, as all other suitors seem to shy away in terror, there comes a man to lead her to the dance floor. A dark, handsome blur of a man.