The Scoundrel and the Debutante

Bestseller London (The Devil Takes a Bride) returns with a lively and unusual romp in her series about sisters whose methods of choosing spouses have shocked Regency society. Middle sister Prudence Cabot envies her happily married sisters and blames their notorious courtships for her single status. Longing for adventure, the misnamed Prudence abandons an approved trip with her chaperone, instead choosing to assist a handsome fellow who’s trying to locate his missing sister. Roan Matheson, despite being American, “in trade,” and nearly engaged to another woman, is an appealing hero who knows how to treat an English miss. Once Roan and Prudence abandon their stagecoach for seduction, they’re on the road to a happy conclusion, despite setbacks caused by their families and a blackmailer. Prudence’s personality sparkles, and while her antics are illogical, London’s well-honed storytelling skills carry the day. Agent: Jenny Bent, Bent Agency. (Apr.)