Escapade

Previous two reviewers have done a good job on describing the book so I will not repeat it here. But I do also like to add that Ms. Smith has done it again--The book was intelligent, the bantering was lively, witty and humorous; it also gave an insightful analysis of human behavior. I really credit this to the writer. Well done, Ms. Smith. I also enjoyed the book cover, eventhough it was not quite in the book.

The heroine Ella Fairmont is a bookworm and has a super secret identity as Miss Prattle, the gossip columnist for the Morning Observor. She is not high in the aristocracy, nor is she wildly beautiful, or considered terribly outgoing with broad interests. However, a lovingly scheming aunt gets them invited to a week long houseparty at The Duke of Clare's country estate. This event is widely considered to be the time that he, the most eligible bachelor in England, will make his decision of marriage partner. Three of the young ladies who have been invited are believed to be the ones whom he favors. Miss Fairmont is not on the shortlist. The Duke of Clare is and has been the main target of the witty but sharp pen of Miss Prattle from early on in her career. Now the fun really begins. The humor and quirky characterizations has drawn me to revisit this story time and again. Jewels, beautiful gowns, candlelit ballrooms, a palace...oh and the quiet, but fun bookworm gets the guy.

: No one knew young Ella Fairmont was miss Prattle-the notorious London gossip columnist. The main object of Miss Prattle's attention was Patrick Beresford, Duke of Clare-the most sought-after and talked-about bachelor town. She quoted every indiscreet thing he said. Now a weeklong houseparty at Clare's country estate would yield a lot of spicy talk to write about the arrogant nobleman. Ella never suspected there was another side to Patrick. Quite unexpectedly she found herself falling in love with him. Now no one must ever find out that Ella wrote those horrid things. Though it was getting harder and harder to keep the secret... The book captures your attention from the first page and doesn't let go until the last. The characters are strong and likeable. I really enjoyed this book and have read it many, many times. If you can get a copy of it, it would be well worth the effort.