This is the first book in the Lady Emily Capers, and as I find Regina Scott’s writing very enjoyable, I am thrilled to begin what is a new series to me.
Hannah is an art teacher acting as a chaperone to several students as they visit one of their aunts, the widowed Lady Brentfield. One of the best parts about her character is the selfless attitude she expresses throughout, but I really enjoyed her growth through the novel, from quiet, insecure spinster, to confident woman who finally knows her own mind, abilities, and value.
David is an unusual Regency hero—his American heritage and upbringing give him a humorous bent at times and call attention to some of the ridiculous rules of the period at others. The reader gets the opportunity to learn some of the conventions along with him, giving us more historical grounding and understanding of some of the customs to which ladies and gentlemen adhered. And when it seems like nonsense to him, he is willing to throw all accepted practice to the wind, giving him a rakish quality without making him into a caricature of either an English gentleman or a bumbling American.
Too often within historical fiction, it feels as if a plot could take place in any time period. But in this novel the words, phrasing, mannerisms and situations locate us firmly in the Regency era. Discussions about entails, proper bowing based on social station, being “bored to flinders,” and “desultory” conversations are only a few examples of how she skillfully immerses us in the setting without resorting to lecturing the reader.
With wonderful characters and humor, this delightful Regency romantic mystery is sure to please fans of the genre. I would highly recommend it to those who are looking for a fun read with a sweet romance and a few luscious kisses.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author in exchange for this honest review. All of the opinions expressed are my own.
(reviewed 52 days after purchase)