This is the third novel in my read all Heyer’s romance novels in publication order. First was The Black Moth and second Powder and Patch.
This one is still set in the Georgian era – think powdered wigs, high heels, and lots of silk brocade. It has some characters from The Black Moth (the evil Duke of Andover is reformed – somewhat, and he is now the Duke of Avon, so maybe not the same character?).
Here’s the blurb …
The Duke is known for his coldness of manner, his remarkable omniscience, and his debauched lifestyle. Late one evening, he is accosted by a young person dressed in ragged boy’s clothing running away from a brutal rustic guardian. The Duke buys “Leon” and makes the child his page.
Reading the novels in order highlights Heyer’s growth as an author. In my opinion this ‘sequel’ is better than The Black Moth.
I think modern readers will struggle with the age difference (20 plus years) and the fact the heroine is the hero’s ward.
It’s witty, well-researched, and there is a bit of intrigue. A very entertaining read.
A review.