The Last Rogue

Deborah Simmons

This is the one to get, particularly if you're a fan of Georgette Heyer or Amanda Quick. The opening scenes in which which Handsome Town Tulip is pitched in marriage with Country Plain Jane maybe aren't the most original, but they're funny; and the whole book has the same sprightly, good-humoured air that its male protagonist does.

Saddled with a wife and a falling down mansion which he doesn't want, Raleigh decides to make the best of it; but his new wife is curiously drawn to the shabby mansion chock full its late owners' extensive collections. Despite her prim exterior, she's not afraid of hard work; and if she isn't so starchy as to be unwilling to read the thrillers of the day (``horrid novels'' as they were called) neither is he so undeniably attached to town life and exquisite clothes that he cannot begin to perceive the attractions his new life---and wife---have to offer.

If the gothic subplot borders on silly at times, their increasing affection is delightful. There's even a slight twist on the role of the housekeeper. Three stars.