Once Upon a Sofa

I've read many regency novels and can recognize formulaic writing a mile off, as most frequent readers of any genre can. Once Upon a Sofa is in a class by itself! Read this novel and see what first-class writing is all about! I can't wait to read the next one.

Major Sidney Chamberlayne is at loose ends now that the war is over, unsure what to do with his life. But he has no problem knowing what to do when a voluptuous woman kisses him in a darkened library. When they are discovered, they are thoroughly compromised and quickly married, though they remain strangers. The widowed Isabel Ashby thought she was kissing (and purposely compromising) an earl she had picked out as her next husband, but instead finds herself wed to a half-pay soldier with no fortune and no prospects - not at all what she had in mind and not likely to give her the sense of security she desperately craves. So Sidney and Isabel are forced together and find love where neither expected - or wanted - to find it. Isabel has the greatest growth arc in this Regency Romance. She begins the novel a selfish and spoiled woman, but one who is insecure and vulnerable beneath her bluster. We watch her fall in love and discover that it changes all her priorities. If you're tired of perfect, virginal heroines, Isabel is right up your alley. Sidney is a delight - about as Beta as a soldier can get - and as honorable as they come. As Sidney struggles with what to do with his life - and his wife - you can't help but fall for him. At least I did!

When I read a romance, I look for good characters first and foremost. Next I look for a good plot. This book had both. Both Sidney and Isabel make the best of the situation in which they find themselves, and they grow as a result of their experiences. The major plot developments were not obvious, which is a blessing in a period romance, and it all came together in a satisfying way. What more could you want? By the way, don't believe everything you read in a back cover blurb. This one gets it all wrong.