The Making of a Gentleman

July 14, 2008
Morren combines an unlikely pair of protagonists in this charming reversal of My Fair Lady
when a minister's spinster sister attempts to redeem a man condemned to die at the gallows. In Regency England, Florence Hathaway's mission is ministering to those at London's infamous Newgate Prison. As wrongfully convicted Jonah Quinn is about to be executed, a mob rushes the hangman and Florence becomes Jonah's hostage. Florence offers Jonah shelter and decides the only way to hide the fugitive is to transform him into a gentleman. Florence's devotion to her religious faith is carefully contrasted against Jonah's skepticism regarding the sincerity of her motives, and while the sparring between the two hints at sexual tension, their attraction remains mostly hidden. Florence's servants are fascinating secondary characters who gradually lose their commonality with Jonah as he makes his transition. Engaging characters and a smooth, fast-paced story line make this a historical to be savored.