LESSONS IN FRENCH -- Laura Kinsale
Sourcebooks Casablanca
ISBN: 978-1-4022-3701-0
February 2010
Historical Romance

Nineteenth Century England

Twenty-seven year-old Lady Callista Taillefaire has come to terms with her life. She will remain a spinster, live with her younger sister and her future husband, and pursue her interest in breeding award-winning cattle. Being jilted by three potential suitors has left Callie feeling plain and unwanted. The only person who could change her life left ten years ago after her father found them in a compromising position. And now that very man stands before her.

Trevelyan Davis d’Augustin, Duc de Monceaux, has returned to England after his escapades in the war with Napoleon. Trying to retain his family’s lands and titles, he joined the French Army, but then defected to the British side where he remained until war’s end. His family had been saved from disaster when they were smuggled out of France during the Revolution and he felt more affinity to the English than to his parents’ land. Having to leave England after the fiasco with Callie broke his heart, and the last person he expected to see in the ballroom is Lady Callista. What astounded him even more is that she is not married. What could the men who jilted her be thinking?

LESSONS IN FRENCH is a lovely tale of redemption, lost and found love, and honor. Upon her father’s death, Callie and her sister became guests in their own home when her male cousin inherited the earldom. Callie’s sister is sure to wed soon, and Callie reckons she can deal with her future when the time comes. But with Trev’s reappearance, she realizes that settling for being a spinster may not be enough for her. Trev has several secrets he needs to keep quiet, but his initial reason to be in England is to care for his ailing mother. Callie is definitely complicating the situation, especially when her prize bull is lost in a wager by Callie’s cousin, and then the bull breaks out of his pasture and disappears. That is when adventure prevails for both Callie and Trev.

Laura Kinsale writes a fantastic romance filled with well-rounded characters and a unique plot. There is plenty of light-hearted humor, and also some serious events, making this lovingly written story pure enjoyment.

Jani Brooks