Jane K. (janeellen) reviewed on 2/15/2007 + 38 more book reviews

Finally free of her nightmarish life under an abusive father, Helena Lambarth arrives in London a gawky, half-starved waif, but an amazingly wealthy one. With both parents dead, she is commended to the care of her mother's dear cousin Lillian and that lady's stepchildren, the handsome and enigmatic Adam, Lord Darnell; and his sister, Charis. They welcome the orphan to their home and hearts, but much as Helena tries to conform to society's dictates, she is unprepared for the malice and scheming she encounters during her season. Justiss rivals Georgette Heyer in the beloved The Grand Sophy (1972) by creating a riveting young woman of character and good humor. Helena's charm captures the hearts of several men-about-town, but she is reluctantly drawn to the honorable, if befuddled, Adam, who has recently tendered an offer of marriage to another. The horrific nature of Helena's childhood adds complexity and depth to this historical romance, and unexpected plot twists and layers also increase the reader's enjoyment. Lynne Welch
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