Review: An utterly delightful and sweet story
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 11 3, 2013
An utterly delightful and sweet story that uses the Christmastide festivities, games and traditions as highlights for a celebration, expected to be the Earl’s last.  Lady Caroline Selwyn is the only child of the Earl, and he has been under a doctor’s care for the past while, with a poor prognosis.  Knowing that she will be left alone, and at the mercy of relations she doesn’t know, and that her father will not rest easily, she concocts a plan.Samuel Avery is the doctor caring for the Earl: progressive and utilizing traditional English-approved treatments mixed with his own knowledge of herbs, other approaches and sense, he feels the Earl is at his last days.  Always attracted to the stately figure and dedicated behavior of Caroline, his lowly beginnings do not allow him to consider more permanent connections to the woman after her father passes.Caroline imposes on the doctor’s gentle manner and concern, and suggests that they claim engagement, to give her father happiness in his last days.  The plan is launched, and the Earl, being of canny mind and determined nature notes the attraction between the two, and seeks to override his suspicions that the engagement is staged.  He posts banns, discusses special licenses, and even insists the Samuel’s family (the two sisters he cares for) are included in every festivity over the 12 day celebration.Delightful doesn’t quite do justice to this story: perfectly set with proper conventions of the time, the addition of Samuel’s baby sister to bring a child’s joy and exuberance of the time adds levity and moments of brightness to the story.  Quiet concern for both parties, and the Earl’s quiet watchfulness and pointed speech to Samuel when the two are alone show the character of the man, and his concern lying for his daughter and her happiness. You will find this novella a quick and enjoyable read, and perfect for a quick getaway to places long ago when escape is needed.I received an eBook copy from the publisher for purpose of honest review for the Jeep Diva. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.