Kathleen

As I began this book, I thought I had already read it. It was just a similar plot used in other Regency novels. But this one has some interesting twists which makes it different. Kathleen, our young gauche country woman (but very comfortable in her own skin) overhears some London dandies talking about her as she works in her father's stable in Ireland. One of them (Giles, the Duke of Havenhall) is not complementary at all. Although he admits she is beautiful, he does not think she could hold her own in a London drawing room. Kathleen, seeking (mild) revenge against the Giles, travels to her grandmother's house hoping to have a season in London, but wanting to gain some polish. Her very proper (English) grandmother has never acknowledged her grandchildren and in fact cut all contact when her daughter married an Irish Earl (Kathleen's father). Kathleen looks so much like her daughter, dead for many years now, that she does take her in. Kathleen works hard to learn the ways of the ton and once taken to London, she is a success. Kathleen catches the eyes of Giles ... but also of other more dubious suitors such as Lord Ramsdale. Even though Ramsdale is accepted in the best of houses, there have been rumors surrounding him. (The reader is privy to his debaucheries.) Giles cannot understand some of the coldness Kathleen presents him with as she remembers his rude remarks. But he is entranced by her! His rather abrupt marriage proposal is rebuffed. His more formal proposal is rebuffed also! What's a man in love to do! (We realize that Kathleen has fallen in love with him also but not sure she is ready to forgive him.) There is a kidnapping to endure but I loved how Barbara Hazard lets the heroine save herself! Kathleen is no shrinking violet! It does take a little help from Giles to get out of the unsavory predicament. Kathleen also embarrasses herself in other ways - realistic since I don't think a person can change overnight. Secondary characters such as Kathleen's five brothers, father, assorted friends and even servants are well fleshed out and have interesting minor parts to play. The horse theme was appealing too! I enjoyed the chapter titles - they were witty and were a sneak peek at what was to come. It concludes with a satisfactory romantic ending. Worth obtaining!