And Only to Deceive

August 8, 2005
In this charming late Victorian romantic suspense novel, Emily, a young and beautiful widow, regrets her husband's African hunting expedition death less than is proper. The late Philip, Viscount Ashton, had a passion for classical antiquity, and Emily, in an attempt to get to know her husband postmortem, uses her newfound independence in London to study it. In the process, she forms a friendship with Cecile du Lac, a Parisian of a certain age, and realizes that there was more to Philip than she realized—including his genuine passion and love for her. The charming Colin Hargreaves may have been involved with Philip in art forgeries, and Andrew Palmer proposes to Emily and then offers evidence that Philip is still alive. By this time, Emily and Cecile are a well-practiced team of amateur sleuths: Phillip's secrets begin to emerge, and travel to Greece provides the possibilities of a new life. Alexander makes Emily light but sympathetic, and conveys period flavor without being ponderous. Her knowledge of the ethical dilemmas posed by Victorian etiquette is considerable; sexual chemistry in particular is handled with exquisite delicacy. The archeological background will lure readers who like to dig for their clues.

Kate Reading uses her highbrow English tones to excellent effect in this romantic-suspense frolic, set in Victorian London. When Lady Emily Ashton is widowed within a year of her marriage, she inherits the fortune of a man she hardly knew and does not mourn. Yet the more she learns of her husband from his diary and friends, the more she grows to love him. Then comes word that he may not have died on safari after all. The host of characters, including forthright Emily, a spirited American friend, and several suitors, offers Reading ample room to display her gift for characterization. Her graceful pace also feels just right for this first in a justifiably popular series. A.C.S. © AudioFile 2015, Portland, Maine