Dearest Max

DEAREST MAX was a wonderfully refreshing read with a thoroughly delightful hero and heroine. Reunited after a 12 year separation, Max and Veronica were childhood friends who discover that each has become an adult the other can love. Barbara Miller successfully avoids romance novel cliches -- there are no Big Misunderstandings, Max is a loveable yet flawed hero, and Veronica is smart and gutsy. As they work together to solve some mysterious deaths and deal with a wildly dysfunctional family, Max and Vee never lose sight of their friendship even as they explore their newfound passion. Not even the pesky matter of Max's unfortunate betrothal can shake Vee's love for her "Dearest Max." The couple is well supported by an interesting cast of supporting characters. If you want to read a romance novel that is a complete surprise from beginning to end, you won't go wrong with this one.

In 1808 Byerly, England, Max Strake begins a twelve year "exile" after he is thrown out off the family estate for allegedly "raping" his cousin Mercia Comish. By 1820, he returns to Byerly after his uncle John Strake died. The will leaves almost everything to Max, who has had a successful career in international diplomacy and business.Max's three cousins (Mercia and her two brothers, Freddy and George) resent the fact that Max inherited most of the estate. John's daughter Veronica thinks otherwise as she always cherished Max. However, questions remain about John's death that lead to the conclusion he probably was poisoned. As first cousins Max and Veronica fall in love, they must contend with more than just breaking one of society's strictest taboos. They must uncover the identity of a killer who has murdered again and must be a member of the family.DEAREST MAX is an interesting Regency romance filled with intrigue during the period when the aristocracy is beginning to have to choose between change and foreclosure. The story line is entertaining as the era comes alive through the interrelationships between the Strakes, their extended family, and their servants. The mini who-done-it adds an intriguing subplot to the tale. The lead characters are an intriguing duo struggling with their forbidden love. Except for practical George, the Comish clan seems too extreme. Barbara Miller provides sub-genre fans with an enjoyable historical romance.Harriet Klausner