I always enjoy a story from Cheryl Bolen’s. Her writing style exemplifies proper form of address among Polite Society druing the Regency era. Her descriptive scenes actually transport me back in time.

The sensibility of young women, their innocence and proper decorous upbringing is well-defined, making it quite believable when even with a construed slight indiscretion a woman or man can find themselves obliged to marry, even though the young woman is still an innocent. They may even find themselves 'caught' by society rules as this story illustrates.

Alexander Farrington, Lord Fane, finds himself in the precarious and uncomfortable position many titled nobilities did during those times. It is easy to gamble away what you have inherited. Lord Fane is honorable and tries to economize to pay debt left by his father. His dedication to family and home strongly suggests he should offer for the hand of Miss Darcy. She would bring a large dowry into the marriage.

But when Lord Fane meets Miss Darcy’s companion he is hesitant to pursue his plans with Miss Darcy. Lucy Wetherspoon is everything a gentleman of quality could want—more even, and he greatly admires her. She is a beauty with exquisite face and form, well-spoken, and delightfully intelligent having been education right along with her brothers. She is also very humble, shabbily dressed and realizes her position in society.

The pull between Lord Fane and Miss Wetherspoon leads to The Kiss, each realizing it was more than just a kiss.

Mr. Collins, the local clergyman, is a pompous ass, always talking, ad nauseam, about his societal connections. He has a rather dear, long-suffering wife. Frankly, I could not be so forgiving. If I were not only a bystander, I would have told him off! It all comes down to some misspoken words by Mr. Collins. How easily the rules of society could destroy one’s life.

Can all be put aright in any event?

This novella is the first of three in the Pride and Prejudice Sequels. It is most elegantly written with lovable characters you cheer to find their happily ever after.A pleasure to experience! ( )