Lady Polly (Harlequin Historical) [ペーパーバック]

The book is set in 1812 in London Society. Young Polly Seagrave, age 18, has just refused the proposal of dashing Lord Henry Marchnight, the one man she truly loves. Instead of eloping with him, she turns him away. For the next five years Polly and Henry are apart, with only a few brief encounters in between. Polly, during these five years has turned away almost 20 suitors. But now Lord Henry has returned to London and his sights are set on Polly. Her mother, having recently married off Polly's oldest brother Nicholas, wants to sees to it that Polly will be married to a fine suitor, not the rogue Lord Henry. Henry, who's reputation for gambling and women, would surely cause scandal to her family. Her opinion though is swayed after Lord Henry rescues Polly and herself from a riot mob in London. This is not the first time Lord Henry has been to the aid of Polly though, he seems to pop up in the most interesting times and in the most interesting places. There are rumors that he is the wealthy socialite aiding a wanted felon. Could this man be the same one that Polly turned away so many years ago? And if so, is there any hope that they could be together?

I found myself completely entertained with this novel. It was interesting to see Polly see-saw her feelings towards Henry. And at times, you found yourself doubting Henry and his proclaimed love to Polly. If you're a fan of historical novels, particularly the Regency era as I am, you'll be delighted with "Lady Polly". It captures all the charms of London Society with it's Seasons and regal manners and homes. I look forward to reading more from Nicloa Cornick. One bit of warning to those readers looking for a good tumble in the sheets book, this isn't one of them. Like most Harlequin Historical Regency books, the love scenes are very discreet and not what most romance readers are used to. For me though that adds to it's charm. It shows that you don't have to use passionate sex to lure readers in.

This book is the sequel to "The Virtuous Cyprian" which was certainly in print in July 2000 as a Mills & Boon Large Print. If you get the chance read the other first as Nicola Cornick develops some of the characters over the two books and I personally find her characters to be one of her strong points. I think Lady Polly does stand up by itself if you can't get hold of the first book.

Set in London, and Suffolk, the book touches on some of the social unrest that is normally omitted from many regencies. There is however much mention of balls and other social occasions. Also smugglers, at least one elopement, secret staircases, gossip about whom is being pursued by a most unsuitable man, blackmail, and a heroine's mother who is determined that her daughter should be married at St. George's Hanover Square.

From the back cover of the Mills & Boon large print hardback edition....

Lady PolIy had rejected Henry five years ago, obeying her father's wishes. Meeting him now, on a deserted terrace, he stole a kiss, and as unexpected passion flared between them, Polly knew this time she'd follow her heart...

Sequel to The Virtuous Cyprian