Regina (by Clare Darcy)

(Amazon UK link)

Regina is a historical novel by Clare Darcy. This is one of the few authors of historical fiction whose writing even begins to compare with Georgette Heyer's. 

In this novel, a competent young lady called Regina agrees to chaperone her cousin's coming-out, and to look after her younger cousins. She is warned against the man who has charmed her cousin.

A series of events - including a lost necklace - make for an exciting plot. However although the style is somewhat Heyer-esque, and the detail and background realistic, the conversation is somewhat stilted and the characters rather flat.

The ending, while happy, seems to be contrived. Perhaps this is better not to read after several Georgette Heyer novels, but it's pleasant enough and worth reading. Unfortunately it's no longer in print and quite hard to find second-hand. Worth buying if you like this genre, and find it for a pound or two online or in a charity shop. But not worth the high prices of some online stores. 

Review copyright 1999 Sue's Book Reviews