Review: Jane Austen has good company.
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 03 25, 2012
This enchanting historical romance reminded me of Jane Austen's "Emma" and Oscar Wilde's "An Ideal Husband."  It's obvious that the author studied books of this era, recreating dialog and attitudes with the expertise of a seasoned writer.  Vicky and Richard play a tricky game of forbidden flirtation when he mistakes her for the "actress" mistress of his friend.  Vicky met the real woman on her journey to visit her new step mother and decides to assume the false identity on a lark.  One lie generates a complex impersonation that she's forced to maintain while Richard becomes smitten with her "unsuitable" persona.The complicated plot involves several sets of lovers who can't seem to match up with the right people.  Their crazy schemes to correct the situation involve an elopement and wild chase through a thunderstorm.  It's funny and sad.  Loveless marriages, arranged to secure wealth or a title, permeated the upper classes of that time period.  The reader might envy the lavish lifestyles of the aristocracy but feels relieved that the class system has disbanded.  Even a royal prince can marry a commoner today.If you enjoy Jane Austen, you'll love this book.  The skill of the author will keep you entranced from the first page to the last.