THE SCANDALOUS LIFE OF A TRUE LADY

Author: Barbara Metzger ISBN: 9780451224385 6/2008 HISTORICAL Publisher: SIGNET ECLIPSE
Time Period: Regency

True Deceit Harry Harmon has already written his own obituary—that is, the obituary for the old spymaster Major Harrison, one of his aliases. After his alter ego's staged death, Harry's next assignment is to spy on enemies at a country house party. To do that, he'll require a courtesan who is learned, truthful, and beautiful. With no guardian, dowry, or references, sensible, smart Simone Ryland has come to Mrs. Burton's bawdy house in search of work. But when the madam notices the virgin's regal, exotic beauty, she packs her off with Harry. Soon Simone, fearful of what she's heard only in whispers, is in for something truly thrilling—something that looks a lot like love.

RRAH's THOUGHTS AND PONDERINGS:

THE SCANDALOUS LIFE OF A TRUE LADY is an age-old story of intrigue. It could have the feel of something seen time and again, but it doesn't. The reason? Barbara Metzger's smooth writing style. She draws her reader right in and before long what's old feels new again. Also, there are slightly offbeat, unexpected comedic touches that set this apart from other Regencies. For example, comparing virginity to any other commodity, like coal or carrots, isn't something the reader often sees in romances from this era. These little splashes of humor brought a smile to my face and really made this even more enjoyable to read.

This is a tale of a woman to the rescue, Regency style. Harry's assignment leaves him searching for a woman to hide behind. He needs a cover for a house party, a lady who is skilled in the art of being beautiful. Simone just needs work. She's desperate—but is she desperate enough to accommodate the handsome spy? And really, is Simone all she seems or does she have a secret or two of her own to keep? We know she goes with Harry, and what happens between them is fairly predictable but, as I said, Ms. Metzger's talent pulls this one off. I especially liked the way Simone had a talent, subtle but evident, for "seeing" things most often overlooked by others. This one character trait really helps to bring her to life.

I enjoyed THE SCANDALOUS LIFE OF A TRUE LADY for many reasons, but mostly because it's pure escapist romance. Wonderfully written, with prose that swept me along, it is a perfectly satisfying read. I recommend reading THE SCANDALOUS LIFE OF A TRUE LADY on a long, rainy afternoon with a pot of tea beside you. That's what I did, and it was a truly delightful experience!

Kay James