A TALENT FOR TROUBLE

Author: Anne Barbour ISBN: 9780709082843 6/2007 HISTORICAL Publisher: ROBERT HALE LTD.
Time Period: Regency

"Never mind, my dearest, you are beautiful inside." Lady Talitha Burnside had always taken comfort in her father's well-meant words. She assured herself that the blazing talent in her fingers overcame the plainness in her features. Now, the Viscount Chelmsford had need of her skill as a caricaturist in a novel that would set London on its ear. Tally told herself firmly that she did not care that Chelmsford would scarcely look beyond his collaborator's talent, for she wished only to provide herself with the means of financial independence from her family. Unfortunately, with the best intentions in the world, Tally did not find herself immune to Chelmsford's charm. And to the Viscount's surprise, he found himself oddly attracted to the artists's huge brown eyes, her coltish grace and her elfin charm. How long would it take for the two artists to discover that the passion sparking between them sprang from more than a literary interest?

RRAH's THOUGHTS AND PONDERINGS:

A TALENT FOR TROUBLE by Ann Barbour is a fascinating journey back in time to the glamorous world of Regency England. I found myself drawn into the life of two wonderful characters, as they interact with the world around them. Jealousy and intrigue bring excitement to a colorful romance. In this story, no one can imagine quiet and plain looking, little Lady Talitha Burnside could ever catch the attention of the handsome Viscount Chelmsford, but circumstances bring them together and what happens from there just appears as a matter of fate.

Lady Talitha has been brain washed all her life to accept the fact that she is pain looking. What I liked about this character is the fact that although she considers herself plain, she does not let it limit her opportunities. Instead, it sets her on a course to discover her skill as an artist. I found the way Talitha blossoms in this story amazing. Talitha's inner beauty shines from the beginning, but with a little help she transforms from the ugly ducking into a graceful swan.

Viscount Chelmsford is a very strong and likeable character. He is a man that knows how others see him. A handsome and wealthy man of title, he is sought after by every female of the ton. In this story, Chelmsford learns that true beauty goes beyond the outside appearance of a person. I loved the fact that Chelmsford finds himself drawn to the inner beauty of Talitha without really understanding why she affects him so. As he watches Talitha transform into a true beauty, Chelmsford finds himself fighting his ever growing desire. I enjoyed watching as he struggles to understand his feelings, and found myself wanting Chelmsford to admit how he felt about Talitha. Their personalities seem to bring out the best in each other. To me, they would be the perfect couple if they can just get passed a few obstacles that stand in their way.

The action and excitement of the story seems spurred by the fact that Chelmsford is the author of a controversial book that has the ton all astir. That, along with Talitha's illustrations of various prominent members of society, places them in a very dangerous position. Some people going so far, in fact, to want to kill them for what they have revealed. Dangerous intrigue builds, leading to a thrilling action sequence in which there is an exciting race against time at night upon horseback with pistols primed and ready. I was totally caught up in the action and could not wait see what would happen next.

A TALENT FOR TROUBLE by Ann Barbour is sure to become a favorite among readers of Regency romance. Wonderful characters bring their world to life through their believable interactions. Danger and intrigue are played out wonderfully in thrilling breathtaking action. I found it a stirring romance filled with strong emotions and plenty of underlying passion. Readers are sure to enjoy watching these two compelling characters as much as I did, as they come to learn the truth about beauty and love. A TALENT FOR TROUBLE is a true keeper.

Anita Hartsell