Lady of Independence

Helen Argers takes the old theme of "vengeful lover" and spins it on its head. The Viscount Weston, determined to marry the woman his father randomly picked, is surprised to find the lady in question is not interested in marriage, but rather a career. His machinations, and the lady's ability to be un-wooed by them, play out against the late Regency and War of Greek Independence. Despite her "unfashionable manner", Astera, the love interest, disconcerts the high ton, her guardians, the viscount, and her would-be greek lover alike. The witty rows between Astera and Weston are worth the price of admission alone. A perfect book for anyone tired of heroines unwilling and unable to take care of themselves in the drawing room or the high seas. The writing is excellent, and the plot works nicely. Despite the "PG" rating, the tone is adult, as are the characters.