An Unquestionable Lady

This book was a page turner. Very different from any other regency I have read. I rather like these novels of women contracting marriages via an advertisement. This book had the normal premise for it -- lady down on her luck, notorious rake needing an heir but that is where the "normal" regency storyline ends. Claudia Tallon is a strong and wonderful heroine. I did not find Giles Verylan (our rake) as likable as her. Even towards the end when he redeems himself, it is in a very bizarre way. Before that ending occurs there are secrets and scandalous behavior to wade through and this novel sweeps you from gossipy ballrooms to mundane country estates. There is Verlan's 18 year old daughter to present and an heir to be conceived and born - all of this happening within one year of surprising and tense moments. You will learn the reasons for Verylan's rather haughty and cold personality but you will worry and agonize with Claudia about this supposedly loveless marriage. It is a rather dark romance but worth reading.