It was quite good for historical romance. Reminded of Nancy Drew. Good clean fun reading. ( )

Let me admit to something straight off the bat--if your character’s name is Alexandra Elizabeth and she’s a brunette, you’ve already got yourself an interested reader in me. If your book is also set in Regency England, you’ve just made a sale. No questions asked. If you then make the book so interesting and captivating, with lively characters, attention to detail and gorgeous gowns described--well you just earned yourself a dedicated reader until you stop writing.

The book begins with the start of the Season--the height of the ton’s social gatherings for four months of glittering balls, strolls through the park and social call after social call (not to mention dinner parties, al frescos, lunch get togethers, rides in carriages…) and Lady Alexandra’s debut into the society. She doesn’t hold much hope for excitement for the Season--she much prefers books and spending time with her two closest friends Ella and Vivi. Both of whom share her passion for the intellectual pursuits and wariness of formal gatherings.

The strength of the book relies on those three and their interactions with each other and the world at large. They each view the world differently, but look to each other for support and guidance. Just how many crazy schemes those three got into as children isn’t said, but from the plans they make in this book one can only imagine (with horror and humor equally)!

Our romantic leads--Alex and Blackmoor (Gavin)--follow a typical romance storyline, that of old friends who see each other differently as adults, but thankfully neither of them is blind. Alex doesn’t suddenly become a simpering miss, determined to behave differently in order to win him and Gavin doesn’t suddenly start treating her like a delicate flower. Neither do they admit to harboring feelings for years, they both recognize that it wasn't until recently they began to see each other in a romantic light.

The mystery, that of Blackmoor Senior’s death, is fairly easy to guess at, but its not a primary focus of the story. Not till closer to the end when things begin to heat up. Many chapters begin with a person’s thoughts--sinister thoughts that serve to advance the mystery plot without needlessly having the characters run around.

A highly recommended read for young adults who enjoy romance, fashion and a little bit of intrigue and for adult fans of the regency genre!
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A young adult take on the classic Regency romance, with fewer less passionate romantic interludes, more plot, and a real mystery.

The set-up is three friends, all eligible, titled young misses, embark on their first London season. Instead of the love-at-first-sight romance, the author presents a friend-turns-into-lover plot.

Female lead: The eminently suitable dowered well-connected daughter of a duke, Lady Alexandra Stafford.

Male lead: Gavin Sewell, Earl of Blackmoor, who inherited his title from his recently deceased father, long-time family friend of the Staffords

Reminiscent of the Georgette Heyer Regencies, with more sweetness and charm than most recent historical romances. ( )

I went into this with low expectations and therefore didn't mind it.

It's very lightweight; the characters are anachronistic; the mystery (aided by melodramatic interludes from an unknown narrator) is obvious; the romance even more so. And yet I found it a pleasant way to pass the time while doing chores.

I'm ashamed of myself! ( )

Cute story. 3.5/5 ( )