Leigh Michaels has efficiently written nearly 100 books spread out in contemporary novels, historical romance and non-fiction books. Recently she has written regency romance novels that take readers on an exciting ride back in time, including her July release of Just One Season in London. This highly anticipated novel follows on the heels of The Mistress' House and like its predecessor follows three love tales wrapped into one neatly bound package.
One Family's Season in London
Romance fiction set in England is a favorite setting for authors, thanks to its remarkable history, lively tales and naturally romantic ambiance. Just One Season in London takes the specific setting of London seasons, a time when full skirted women and dashing men courted in the midst of the regency ton. Following the societal rules of the ton, men and women had guidelines for etiquette and station and were ostracized if they strayed in any way. Naturally this put pressure on the higher-up families of society, including that of Ryecroft Manor.
Ryecroft Manor houses the widowed Lady Miranda, her son Viscount Ryecroft and her daughter Sophie. The family is struggling through financial debt left behind by the husband/father and realizes that they can not skip over the upcoming season in London, but must use it to bring themselves the riches they need. Each family member in turn, knows that to save their home they must marry a wealthy match, only they each seek to do it secretly, even if it sacrifices their happiness.
Naturally, a hilarity of unsuspecting characters become entangled in this web born through the roots of good intentions. Besides the very lively Ryecroft family, readers will be introduced to many possible significant others, and one older matron who wants to save the day and enjoy herself while doing it. It is the loyalty and love of the Ryecroft family, however, that will captivate readers and draw them into the story, allowing them to emotionally invest in the characters.
Regency Romance Fiction at its Best
Leigh Michaels has a knack for bringing characters to life in a thoroughly entertaining way. Highly talented at telling stories, the author introduces you to people, rather than characters, in a setting that will seem all too real and believable. The plot itself was wonderfully exacted amidst the pages of the novel, complete with adequate suspense to keep readers guessing. Until the very end I was unsure of the outcome for the characters I had come to love.
With such a unique story line, and the author's familiar prose, Just One Season in London is a success as far as regency romance novels are concerned. Readers will adequately grasp the importance of the -dire situation the Ryecroft family find themselves in, and feel familiar with the goings-on of the ton- and how tough this season will be for the family. Not a mistake can be made if the Ryecroft's plans are to succeed, and as all good novels go, problems naturally arise to get in their way.
I recommend this story to anyone who likes fun novels to distract them from life and keep them entertained until the last page is turned, especially people who like regency romances reminiscent of Jane Austen.
About the Author
If the astounding amount of her publications was not enough to impress, Leigh Michaels has been the recipient of numerous Reviewers Choice Awards from Romantic Times, the 2003 Johnson Brigham Award, and been a finalist six times for the prestigious RITA award for Best Traditional Romance. Leigh Michaels is the author of On Writing Romance, published by The Writer's Digest, and teaches online romance writing courses at the Gotham Writers Workshop. Currently, the author is living in Iowa and adding final touches to her September 2011 release, The Wedding Affair.
Source
- Michaels, Leigh, Just One Season in London, Sourcebooks Inc., July 2011, ISBN 978-1-4022-4420-9
Jessica Hastings - Jessica Hastings is a published author/poet, professional reviewer, and avid reader. Schooled in journalism and creative writing, she ...
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