Woman's Estate

An interesting novel, deeper than the usual Regency courtship romance. The Heroine, American Bookseller, Abigail Lydden is the widow of the charming, reckless Englishman, Lord Francis Lydden. Abigail had followed her heart when she married profligate Francis. Fortunately, he died before running through all of their assets. Now her son, Victor, is the heir to Rutupiae Hall. They sail from New York to England to accept Victor's inheritance. Abigail discovers that Francis had a stepfamily and two cousins that he had never mentioned. The unhappy stepfamily is established at Rutupiae Hall. They are not pleased to meet the new Lord Lydden. One of the cousins, Whig politician Sir Arthur, is a co-executor of the Lydden Estate and must approve any estate expenditures. Abigail must navigate these new aristocratic waters and has decided not to mention her status or income as a Bookseller in New York. There are numerous plot threads. A mystery: murderous attempts on young Victor's life. A romance: appealing Sir Arthur and cautious, self-protective Abigail. An Intrigue: Sir Arthur's efforts on behalf of England in negotiating a Peace Treaty at Ghent. An Injustice: English Property and Marriage Laws and Abigail's insistance on her personal and financial independence. All of these threads are woven into a fast moving, informative and emotionally involving romance. Recommended.