This first novel in Jeffries's (Married to the Viscount
) new Royal Brotherhood series demonstrates that there's still room in the flooded romance market for a traditional Regency told with sparkle and energy. At heart, this is simply a good girl-tames-rake romance, but the chemistry among all the characters—not just the hero and heroine—ensures that there's never a dull moment in this merry romp. Determined to make something more of themselves, three of Prince Regent's illegitimate sons come together to pool their resources: Lord Draker's money, Gavin Byrne's connections and Alec, Lord Iversley's, new title. Alec needs a wealthy bride so that he can restore his estate, and beautiful Katherine Merivale may just fit the bill. Katherine has an unspoken "understanding" with her childhood friend Sydney, but she's grown impatient waiting for him to ask for her hand. Seizing the opportunity to get close to Katherine, Alec proposes a plan to make Sydney jealous. Naturally, the two find that they're well-suited, but can Alec hide his scheme from Katherine until they're wed? The attraction between the protagonists is electric, and it's consistently entertaining to watch them juggle their various secrets. Fans of historical romances will find the simple pleasures of this novel irresistible. Agent, Pamela Ahearn. (Aug.)
