Review: A Breach of Promise by Victoria Vane
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 03 20, 2014
A naughty novella by Victoria Vane, an under-recognized and under appreciated historical romance author whose writing I find completely entertaining. Her stories are usually set in Georgian England, a time period close to my historical Regency heart. One of the best reasons to read Vane, however, in addition to the engaging stories and delicious writing, is the history. She uses actual historic events that make her stories even more fascinating and intriguing to read.Lydia is a young bride-to-be, making her come out, and only seventeen, when her engagement to Marcus is celebrated at a betrothal dinner. The match is the work of both of their families, the young couple not having much choice in the matter. Lydia is hopeful but is quickly disillusioned when Marcus shows up late and intoxicated. Later, in the garden, he initiates her briefly, and tantalizingly, in the benefits of matrimony. Then he promptly disappears for a government post...for six years.During this time, Lydia has educated herself on being the wife of a diplomat but, as time goes on, she finds herself angry at Marcus’ abandonment and determines to break off the engagement. All this time, Marcus has been living the bachelor life while traveling for his government work and, when he returns to London, he’s upset and in disbelief that meek and mild Lydia would end their betrothal. So he determines to win her back.I like how Lydia spurns Marcus after he abandons her for so long and I would have preferred she made him grovel much longer but, as is this is a novella, there isn’t a lot of time.Marcus’ mother plays matchmaker here when she invites (and schemes) Lydia into journeying with Marcus to the family’s country estate so as to give him time to woo her properly. And he really tries. During the journey, they are forced to communicate more than they ever have, thus giving them some opportunity to get to know one another. I really like how Lydia displays to Marcus her knowledge of foreign languages and organizing skills when he seems to need some assistance with his work. He in turn is impressed with the vivacious and intelligent woman she has become.I adore the little historical details Vane includes, such as descriptions of clothing, landscape, and tea rituals. "...pouring steaming hyson into three delicate cups of the finest Chelsea porcelain." (p50)And, speaking of more historical influences, Vane discusses her inspiration behind her novella, The Belle's Stratagem, a Georgian-era play by Hannah Cowley.Marcus and Lydia's close friends, Nick and Mariah respectively, are engaging characters who seem to share a mutual attraction. Perhaps there's a future story here?The love scenes are, as always in a Victoria Vane story, sexy, sensual, and always beautifully written.Memorable moments:"'Though I dreamed of a love match, I only now hope for a man who treats me with kindness, courtesy, and a modicum of respect--none of which have I ever seen from Lord Russell.'" (p25)"'But my dear, you do not know men,' Lady Russell consoled. 'They are undeniably obtuse. The daft creatures never know what they want until it's placed under their noses.'" (p29)"'Character?' Marcus winced. 'Is it as bad as all that? Why is it all girls with no claim to pulchitrude positively brim with character?'" (p31)"'To my understanding a man can perform the animal act of coition in virtually any circumstance without emotional engagement of any kind.'" (p68)A delightfully bawdy novella by a writer to watch.