Bath, England, c.1813

It is widely understood that Miss Carolina Finmere is ordinary. Even Carolina herself believes everything about her is commonplace. At two and twenty and after three lackluster Seasons, Carolina chooses to visit Bath and her grandmother, the Dowager Viscountess Chersham, rather than go through another Season in London.

Carolina works off her frustrations in solitary walks...until one day she runs into Lord Quainton, who asks to accompany her. Alexander Quainton, a wounded veteran of the Peninsular war, had caught Carolina's eye more than once before they were introduced in the Pump Room. She's puzzled by his lighthearted charm in the face of his obvious injuries.

As the days go by and the two companions venture farther afield on their walks around Bath and its environs, Carolina dares to dream her future might hold more than being useful Aunt Caro to her nieces and nephews. Yet, as friendly and wide ranging as their conversations are, Quainton keeps a tight hold on any feelings he might have.

Short and sweet aptly describes CAROLINA'S WALKING TOUR. If ever a tale shows that out-of-the-ordinary qualities can lie beneath plain or damaged exteriors, it is this delightful little nugget of gold.

Jane Bowers