The Black Sheep (by Georgette Heyer)

(Amazon UK link)

I do like Georgette Heyer's books, particularly her historical romances. They're not just light fiction - the research is always excellent, the settings realistic, and the characters delightful. I re-read them all regularly. Although I've collected most of her books from charity shops, they remain in print almost constantly.

'Black Sheep' is about Abigail, who lives with her charming (though nearly brainless) wealthy sister, and her highly-strung romantic niece Fanny. Unfortunately, Fanny has fallen in love with an impoverished fortune-hunter.

Abigail tries to release Fanny from her infatuation, with little result. Then his uncle appears on the scene, the 'black sheep' of the family. He has no family feeling, so although Abigail hopes he too will see the improvidence of the match, he has no intention of doing anything about it.

However, rather to Abigail's surprise, she gets along extremely well with the uncle, as they share a sense of humour. Eventually he does take a hand to assist her, in an amusing and unexpected way.

Racy, fast-paced, with likeable characters and - as ever - a most satisfactory ending. Very enjoyable.

(I wrote a longer review of 'Black Sheep' on re-reading six years later in 2008)