While on a stop at a small inn, the Rutherfords rescue Lady Audrina Bradleigh who had been kidnapped by a former lover. In spite of having been taken against her will, Audrina's father says she is not to go back to London unless she is betrothed, thus condemned to miss her sister Charissa's wedding on the first day of the new year, in less than a month. Audrina, being already ruined, sees no chance of that happening. Her father chooses to go back to London with her abductor, while she will travel to York with the Rutherfords, and their friend Lady Estella Irving to the estate of acquaintances.

SEASON FOR DESIRE starts off as a beautifully written cosy Regency mystery featuring an extraordinary cast of eccentric and endearing characters, save for Giles; as he is the stoic, dependable and serious one. Ms. Romain's an extensive understanding and knowledge of the era shines in many ways: how well she knows the English character; the cultured manners and speech, the biting sarcasm, the proprieties of the various classes. The author shines in her lush descriptions of the surroundings, as well as sparkling dialogue, and the delightful banter between the characters had me chuckling quite a few times.

SEASON FOR DESIRE is also one of the best books I have ever read, bar none; I was reminded of Dostoyevsky's Crime and Punishment as regards the author's profound insight on society and keeping up appearances. The romantic element is unquestionably present: the story of one couple had me weeping, while another's made me smile -- yes, there are two love stories, as equally touching as they are different. There are plot twists I never saw coming because they are most unusual in Regency romance novels. At the heart of SEASON FOR DESIRE lay the profound questions of what defines one's worth; is being different good or bad; should one live one's life according to others' expectations or should one dare go on an adventure, such as Richard's.

SEASON FOR DESIRE is like a huge, beautiful box that, after unwrapping layer after layer, you find exactly the present you've always dreamed of. Ms. Romain's exquisite prose and extraordinary storytelling skills take us on a splendid and unforgettable journey.

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