The Nonesuch by Georgette Heyer (2000, Paperback, Reprint)

To start out, I must disclose that my all-time favorite book is Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austin. This may partially explain why I have found Georgette Heyer's romantic novels to be so enjoyable. While "The Nonesuch" is no match for P&P, I find Heyer's writing reminiscent of Austin's. The characters are interesting and diverse, the plot is entertaining and satisfying, and it makes for a perfect light read. This is a story about an lovely, but older(20s), governess conquering the heart of a handsome and rich bachelor. Like in P&P, descriptions of sex have no place in the novel. I predict that the thrill of resisted attraction between two people, the quirky characters, and entertaining plot will keep the fans of Regency-period romance novels coming back for more.

To be more specific: Sir Waldo inherits an estate from a miserly relative he barely knew. Waldo is very socially-progressive and uses his already immense wealth to support his favorite cause - homes for orphaned children. He goes to the newly-inherited estate for the purpose of turning it into such a home, although he doesn't disclose this to any of the neighbors, who are thrown into a fervor because such a famous and wealthy man has come into the area. As he makes the acquaintance of the neighbors, he meets a very beautiful but spoiled young miss (Tiffany) who has not yet "come out" and her governess, a poised and intelligent woman. As Tiffany's behavior causes several complicated and entertaining problems for her governess, and Waldo's relatives/charges fall in and out of love, the governess (Miss Trent) and Waldo are frequently thrown together to cleanup the mayhem. Waldo quickly discovers his lasting attraction to Miss Trent, but Miss Trent resists all attempts to pull her from "her sphere" into what she thinks is Waldo's world of fashion and riches. An entertaining story with heart, brains, and humorous adventures - a perfect light romantic read.

I would recommend this book, as well as Heyer's novel "Frederica" and "Arabella".

I recived a book in better condition than I was lead to believe! It was in such good shape! It looked as if it had been read but once or twice before.
I'm so happy with it!