Reviewed by Francine
Aside from French spies and highwaymen, when a novel touches
on one’s home town it is only natural for element of familiarity to cloak about
one, and Erica Taylor’s novel does precisely that when the hero and heroine venture
to Wells Cathedral. Not only is the heroine’s penchant for Gothic architecture
apparent, other cathedrals are soon destined to play a role in highlighting the
craft of code breaking scripted ciphers. The very fact Luke, nor Vivian, had
foreseen a chance encounter would lead to a marriage of convenience, they nonetheless
adapt to the agreed bargain and become intrigued by each other almost as much
as the mystery she finds herself dragged into.
Subsequently, as perilous danger surrounds them within England
of 1816, Vivian unravels elements from her past that had meant little to her
until events unfold. Thus with a timely spy plot, Luke’s past haunts him and
fate determines a second encounter with his past is not only a major threat to
the Prince Regent and his beloved daughter Charlotte, can his marriage of
convenience with Vivian hold them together or is a parting of the ways inevitable?
Therein lies the essence of marry in haste on impulse for personal gain, and
suffer the consequences of uncertainties at a later date in how to resolve
issues that that were never supposed to arise. A thoroughly enjoyable read as
two people find the past can determine the future as they know it. Enjoy!
