A Change of Fortune

Starred review from October 15, 2012
Lady Eliza Sumner has more than her share of problems. Not only has her father died, but his trusted servant and Eliza's governess have stolen the Sumner fortune and fled together to America, where they've assumed the identities of British royalty. Eliza, having more courage than either money or good sense, poses as a governess and follows the nefarious couple across the Atlantic, planning to confront them and reclaim her wealth. Hamilton Beckett erroneously blames himself for his wife's death and hasn't remarried for fear of putting another woman in harm's way. His two young children, who have scared off many a nanny, need a mother, but even this hasn't sent him courting. He's sworn off women, and then he meets Eliza. Set in New York City circa 1880, Turano's historical romance has witty dialogue, a spunky heroine, a bounty of humor, and a fast-paced plot. There are wonderful secondary characters, too, including an ankle-biting boy, a relentlessly matchmaking mother, and a full cast of despicable villains. A Change of Fortune will make a delightful addition to any library.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2012, American Library Association.)