This was just a quick pick languishing on my bookshelf. I thought it was about a "betrothal for convenience" but tried to figure what could be "vengeful" about that. I was totally wrong! The story begins with a funeral, then a highway robbery. A year between each and seemingly disconnected. Those are just the events. The people, drawn wonderfully with words, are unique. Our heroine, Felicity Bellwood, in the beginning, is described in the usual Regency way. She is pretty, yet tomboyish. She is curious and yearns for what she cannot have - but that is only scratching the surface. You find out how intelligent she is, even as she faces the world with a quiet front. She is seething inside with emotions. Being forced towards marriage and becoming a dutiful wife (child breeder and housekeeper!) seems to be her only alternative in life. Our hero, Justin Havilland also is hiding his emotions. We are not sure why. He is a war hero, friend to Felicity's brother but something is not quite right. As you get to know him, you are kept in the dark until the bitter end. We first meet him at the aforementioned funeral. Does he have anything to do with the highwayman? What does Felicity's brother who appears to have a drinking and gambling problem have to do with this? The other characters, Aunt Harriet and her daughter Georgina, Felicity's father and the associated servants are all well fleshed and very believable. The conversations are flowing and present the story with emotion. And we are taunted with intrigue and upheaval and romance. Don't read ahead! Can this tangled tale ever work out? The depiction of the moments Felicity and Justin realize they are in love is wonderful. Great afternoon read.
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