Gr 8 Up- great introduction to historical romance novels for younger YA readers. Lydia Whitfield knows what she wants: to run the family estate until she marries the man chosen by her father and becomes a devoted wife. And she needs Robert Newton's help with the legal documents to get things rolling. Robert, a new legal apprentice, is amused by the Whitfield family but intrigued by Lydia. A young woman running a family estate, not trying to hide her intelligence, is not very common. But Robert must remember that he is there to help her marry her intended, not flirt. However, when Robert and Lydia are kidnapped, all of Lydia's plans are derailed. With a reputation on the line, lies building to cover what has happened, and affections starting to grow, Lydia must decide what she really wants in life. Will she stay on her set path or veer off into another direction? Anstey's novel is a wonderful coming-of-age journey filled with entertaining characters and wild adventures. Give to teens who enjoy light and readable historical romance. VERDICT This fun love story with a twist of mystery will be a great addition to any YA library.Jessica Strefling, U.S. Court of Appeals, Federal Circuit Library, Washington, DC

In this delightful historical mystery/adventure/romance, wealthy, strong-minded Lydia Whitfield of Roseberry Hall finds her carefully thought-out plans for her future challenged by true love. Lydia and her mother prepare a ball for Lydia’s eighteenth birthday, at which they will officially announce her family-arranged engagement to her high-living, debt-ridden neighbor, Lord Aldershot. Lydia dictates the terms of the engagement to Aldershot and plans to bind him in a written contract. To finalize her plans, she travels to Bath to meet with her young solicitor, Robert Newton. They are kidnapped but escape their confinement. The kidnappers’ purpose is unclear until rumors about their unchaperoned adventure begin to circulate. Together, Lydia and Robert must find their accusers, clear their names, and open their hearts to love, rather than bow to social dictates.