MISS TAVISTOCK'S MISTAKE

Burkard, the author of Forever, Lately (2019), offers a humorous romp about misunderstanding and forgiveness amid the blindness of love.

As the story opens, Feodora Margaret Tavistock is a 9-year-old orphan and the newly adopted ward of her kindly but isolated uncle, the Duke of Trent. She’s rescued from a switch-clutching housekeeper by Gabriel Rempeare, a teenage cousin to whom she’s already betrothed, and she treasures this dashing memory throughout her adolescence. At 19, she’s a beautiful, spirited woman, and she awaits Gabriel’s return from a stint in the navy. However, a series of misunderstandings lead her to believe that he’s dissolute and unfaithful. A combative exchange culminates in her assumption of another identity, “Lady X,” a gossip columnist’s moniker for Margaret Chrissendon, her uncle’s alleged mistress. Feodora finds herself thrust into a web of obfuscation, reluctantly supported by her chaperon, Mrs. Filbert. She’s still determined to pursue a social season in London, and she attempts to convince Gabriel that she truly is “Lady X”—and she also gives Margaret permission to assume her identity. It’s a tenuous arrangement, and as Feodora and Gabriel fall in love, she fears that the truth will end her chance to be his bride. Over the course of this lighthearted, romantic series starter, Burkard combines elements of Sense and Sensibility and The Importance of Being Earnest to craft a delightful and comedic story that will certainly please historical fiction aficionados and those who enjoy wholesome, romantic stories. Burkard has also clearly done her research to immerse the reader in real-life historical context, including true events in the background to her light narrative. The book’s romantic tension, lush environments, and light comedy combine to provide readers with a sweet, heartwarming reading experience.

A clever tale that’s sure to delight fans of historical romance.