"A story to be enjoyed by historical fans and mystery fans alike"

Charles and Mélanie Fraser have a life many of their friends envy -- a close, loving relationship, two beautiful children, and a large home in London's Berkeley Square full of devoted servants. Charles, a member of Parliament, the grandson of a duke and a former intelligence officer adores his wife Mélanie who he met while in France during the Napoleonic Wars eight years earlier.

Sadly their idyllic life is about to take a tumble when their six year old son Colin is kidnapped and held for ransom. The man behind the kidnapping seems to believe Charles has the legendary Carevalo Ring in his possession. He wishes it returned to him before he will release young Colin. Charles and Mélanie waste no time in trying to find the ring so that their son will be returned. Thus starts an exciting search through the streets of London -- including the most elaborate estates, a debtors prison, and the seediest taverns, brothels, and gaming halls as well as a trip to Brighton. As Charles and Mélanie continue their search shocking secrets are revealed which leads one to wonder if any of their lives can ever be the same.

Rich and multi-layered, this story is full of startling revelations that will have the reader gasping out loud. The twists and turns nearly give the reader whiplash!! Liberally spiced with bits of history, DAUGHTER OF THE GAME is one of the best books I've read all year. The author is a graduate of Stanford where she studied British history and her knowledge of the history of early 19th Century Britain adds depth and texture to a fabulous read that I dare anyone to put down once they've started. This book is one to cherish and successfully cross genres so appealing to historical readers, historical romance readers, and mystery readers as well. DAUGHTER OF THE GAME is a keeper in every sense of the word.

Reviewed by Maudeen Wachsmith
Posted May 19, 2002