The Secret Nabob

If I had to custom order a Regency novel, "The Secret Nabob" is exactly what I'd order. Beautifully written, this book has a sweet, gentle rythm that envelopes you in the world Ms. Kirkland has created - the beautiful, peaceful Regency countryside. While there is a plot, its a fairly straightforward one, and quite standard; but the almost musical writing style and the sweet, but not too sweet, romance, more than makes up for any lack of originality or complexity in plot. When the wealthy nabob has come back from India to live in the neighboring Balenger estate, Mrs. Wycliff sits up and takes notice. Wouldn't it be just a perfect match for her daughter Priscilla - although only seventeen, if she were to marry a rich man wouldn't all their problems be over. . . Meanwhile, Madeline, the older daughter, meets a man in the meadow whom she only knows as Philip. He seems so very nice - but she is a lady, how can she stoop so low as to marry a laborer? The Wycliffs are everything a dysfunctional Regency family should be, Madeline is everything the brave older sister always is, and her romance is just perfect for Regencyland, where everything always works out the way it really should. . . I have read a lot of books, Regency and otherwise, and although I must have seen this plot done before, nobody has done it better than Martha Kirkland. If you are looking for a *real* Regency book, that is beautifully written, this is the book to get.

This was the first regency romance I've ever read and it was delightful. It was beautifully written and left me with a really good feeling. I now know why these books are so popular, and I'm going to have to read more by Ms. Kirkland.

I have enjoyed many of this writer's works, but this one remains my favourite. When the shy heroine learns that she is in love with a man she should not love, I felt her heart-wrenching pain. Ms. Kirkland creates believable characters that will stay with you long after you have put the book down. Don't miss this one.

The Secret Nabob was one of my favorites of Martha Kirkland's works. A fun and energetic read and a delightful escape.