The Reluctant Bride

The Reluctant Bride
Joan Smith
Robert Hale London, publisher
ISBN 978-7090-7294-8
£18.99

Miss Elizabeth Braden, known as Lizzie to her family and intimates, was very content to remain a spinster living with her Aunt Maisie at the family home of Westgate. She enjoyed running the estate and managing the house for her brother Jeremy, who was a scholar at Oxford. Unfortunately, the estate was not doing well and as Jeremy’s fees were due soon, as well as many household accounts outstanding, Lizzie decided she had no choice but to sell the diamond necklace she had inherited. The necklace had been much admired by her uncle Mr Weston Braden, who had at one time offered five thousand pounds for it. Reluctantly, she must now sell to him if he still wants it.

Lizzie keeps the diamonds close to her as she journeys to her uncle’s home. Unfortunately, circumstances overcame them and they had an accident with Sir Edmund blunt. When the loss of her necklace was discovered, Sir Edmund offers to help, because he is at fault; though he railed her for carrying such valuable items. She thinks he is the most objectionable man she has met but accepts his help.

With many scrapes and adventures yet to come, will Lizzie revise her opinion of sir Edmund and will the diamonds be recovered? Will Lizzie find romance and happiness? Read this Regency tale with a twist and find out. An interesting story with a difference. I award this Regency Romance 4.5. red roses. AS