Search - Cousin Kate

I've only read 3 other Heyer books, so I can't speak with any authority on how different this offering is compared to her numerous other books, but I will note that I heard about Cousin Kate because it stirs up alot of mixed feelings (and ratings) with Heyer fans.


So of course I had to read it...


Cousin Kate starts off lighthearted, but but within 50 pages the plot takes on a darker, more gothic feel. There is a romance involved, but it's actually not the central theme of the book - mental illness is.

I can see where many readers might have issues with Cousin Kate. It's certainly not a fluffy and sparkling romantic comedy. It's also not full-on gothic horror. It's a sad book in many respects, as it deals with mental illness as well as how some of the characters deal with that mental illness.

In the end, I liked it. Didn't love it - didn't detest it. I'm certainly glad I read it, but wouldn't recommend it for a first time Heyer reader, as it doesn't really seem to fit her standard plotline formula.