Secrets of a Proper Lady

August 27, 2007
Lady Cordelia Bannister, Lord Marsham's youngest daughter, is a self-assured Victorian woman who writes articles about her extensive travels for ladies' magazines. Still single at 25, even Cordelia admits that too much independence isn't a good thing, but when her father engages Cordelia to a wealthy American, Daniel Sinclair, a man she's never met, Cordelia is furious. Determined to do what is best for her family, Cordelia sets out with her cousin to learn more about Daniel. When she comes upon a man in the park claiming to be Daniel's secretary, she assumes a false name to gather information, not realizing he's actually Daniel. Cordelia quickly finds herself falling for the handsome American, and he with her. Mistaken identities securely in place, Alexander has a fine time orchestrating the sparkling battle of wits between them. The leads make a superb match, bringing to mind classic sparring partners like Katharina and Petruchio or Bogie and Bacall; readers will be too amused by them to care that the supporting characters are a bit stunted. While there is no serious tension, Alexander knows what her romance readers want—charming characters, sharp banter, missed connections and a happy ending—and delivers with gusto.

January 15, 2008
Lady Cordelia Bannister, still single at 25, must deal with the engagement her father has arranged between her and Daniel Sinclair, a wealthy American. Independent Cordelia is furious and plans to learn more about her unknown husband-to-be. She ends up passing herself off as her own companion, Sarah, to a man she believes is Daniel's secretary but who is in fact Daniel himself. Unfortunately, many listeners will find that the confusion of identities and misunderstandings turns a promising story into a disappointing one. The characters are less entertaining than annoying as the tale progresses, with the story line seeming to go in circles. The humor in the dialog is forced, and the (happy) ending seems rushed, even for a Victorian romance. Charlotte Parry's reading is clear and helps establish the atmosphere. This is the third in Alexander's "Last Man Standing" series. Recommended for larger collections only. ["LJ" encourages a diversity of opinion. This was an "LJ" Best Romance of 2007. Maybe it just doesn't work in audio.Ed.]Denise A. Garofalo, Astor Home for Children, Rhinebeck, NY

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