Booklog 3/2021:

[jacey]

Not much happens in this book but it happens (or not) in an interesting way. Venetia Lanyon has been stuck on the Yorkshire estate she was born on for all of her twenty-five years – firstly because her father was a grim recluse, secondly, her older brother who joined the army and after their father died, left Venetia in charge, and thirdly because her younger brother, Aubrey, is a brilliant scholar but crippled by a diseased hip and Venetia has, up to now, been standing in as a parent. When Aubrey has a riding accident he's rescued by their recently returned neighbour, Jasper Demerel, whose reputation as an out-and-out rake is well known. Against all odds Venetia and Demerel become good friends. He courts her and there is undeniable attraction even though all Venetia's friends warn her against him. An unexpected turn of events precipitated by her older brother sends Venetia on a trip to London where she learns a family secret that changes everything. Heyer is always interesting to read, but this is not one of my favourites, I spent a great deal of the early part of the book waiting for something to happen.

Comments

[watervole]

I read it and liked it, but not to the extent of another friend who says it's her favourite Heyer.

[jacey]

It's not my favourite Heyer by a long shot. I think I prefer The Toll Gate, or maybe The Corinthian, and in particular, The Unknown Ajax. They've all got a bit more going for them than Venetia.

[watervole]

I remember liking the Corinthian. I haven't read the other two yet. I shall move them up my list.