I Thee Wed

March 29, 1999
Strong-willed, and with a redhead's combustible temper, paid companion Emma Greyson finds herself embroiled in a dangerous adventure with the dashing Edison Stokes. A wealthy member of Regency England's "Polite World," Stokes follows the clue in a dying man's last words to arrive at Ware Castle, where he suspects a dark plot is underway. At the castle he encounters Emma, who stands out among the era's decadent and depraved society as a woman of sharp intelligence. From their awkward introduction--in a wardrobe where Emma has gone to seek refuge from the unwelcome attentions of a lecher and Edison is searching for clues--the two develop an alliance often made precarious by their smoldering attraction. When Emma's life is threatened by a thief at large among Ware Castle's guests, Edison's courage and his loyalty to Emma are put to the test. A veteran in the army of steamy historical amour, Quick (With This Ring; other novels as Jayne Ann Krentz) tosses off her 15th such romance with ease. Attractive protagonists, loose bodices, thwarted love and odds overcome prove themselves once again the ingredients for success in this genre.

Barbara Rosenblat's stellar performance turns this inconsequential literary fluff into a delightful piece. Emma Greyson, lady's companion and woman of intuition, is unwillingly drawn into a conspiracy of intrigue surrounding a lost book of mystical secrets, including a recipe for "telepathic tea." Edison Stokes, hot on the trail of the same items, enlists Emma's help, and the two (predictably) fall in love amidst the multiple murders and peccadilloes of early England. Rosenblat's character portrayals, down to the least important footman, are impeccable. Her dialects are perfect. Best of all, she brings a delicious sense of fun to the story. R.P.L. (c) AudioFile 2001, Portland, Maine