Aunt Pennyfeather was an acquaintance of Miranda Armitage’s Aunt Joan. Miranda was an orphan who was broke, and her Aunt Joan had taken her in and paid for everything. She was frugal; Aunt Joan was cheap! Miranda had no idea she was the one whose fortune was providing their livelihood throughout the years!

The two aunts set up an arranged marriage; Miranda thought it was love at first sight, but Thane was marrying for money. Circumstances got interesting when Miranda arrived at Earlsthorpe and then Thane’s cousin and a group of acquaintances (led by a former lover of Thane’s) arrived. Claire intended to stop the wedding and marry Thane herself; she had no idea he was without funds!

This story is detailed with many characters. These people are solid, even if not all upstanding citizens. The plot is believable and very interesting. Ms. Harrison has an interesting way of telling a story which makes it hard to stop reading. There is drama and intrigue; there is murder and liaison. The confusion over exactly why Thane is marrying Miranda has a big impact on the overall story.

Exciting action comes to life as the guards are called in to investigate the various happenings. No matter how many times they are interrogated, it seems there will never be an ending to the mystery of who and why. This book is one which will definitely keep the attention of the readers and the outcome is surprising!

I recommend this book as one which will be a good choice if you like historical with a little suspense and mystery thrown in.

Overall rating:
Sensuality rating: Mildly sensual

Reviewer: Brenda Talley
May 16, 2007