The Wicked Wyckerly: The Rebellious Sons
*Starred Review* John Fitzhugh Wyckerly, a “Wicked Wyckerly,” never wanted to be an earl. As the second son, he’s free to spend his time gambling and womanizing. Then the unthinkable happens. Fitz’s father and brother die in rapid succession, making Fitz the seventh Earl of Danecroft, and leaving him an estate in ruins and a mountain of debts. To make matters worse, he has to assume care of his illegitimate daughter, Penelope, a cute little hellion who gets them thrown off the mail coach. They’re left on the farm owned by Abigail Merriweather, who can only regain custody of her beloved younger half-siblings by marrying. Rice (Mystic Warrior, 2009) is a master storyteller as she takes her endearing if roguish hero and spunky, stubborn heroine through all the trials evildoers and Regency society can concoct. A wonderful blend of humor, pathos, adventure, and charm, this page-turner is book one in Rice’s promising Rebellious Sons series. --Shelley Mosley