Title:
The Pendragon
Legacy
Author:
Joanna Challis
Published By:
Wings ePress
ISBN:
1-59088-248-2
Release Date:
Available Now
Format:
Electronic
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A gothic romantic mystery and a cursed ring lead the granddaughter of a Cornish fisherman into the heart of the British upper classes.
Fiona Trevelick had always stood out in her small Cornish fishing village. Her mother Anna and Aunt Nan never quite fit in with the locals either. A good education and the strong desire not to end up as the wives of fishermen had given "them Trevelick girls" a somewhat notorious reputation to the local women. As a young girl, Fiona challenged the future Earl of Pendarron for the right to be looking for smugglers' treasure in a cave. When they grew to be adults, Lord Tyson never forgot the fiery redhead with the sharp tongue.
Fiona had suspicions that she was born a bastard. Her mother was living in a poorhouse when she died giving birth. Fi had overheard Aunt Nan talking about "a legacy" but had never understood what the legacy referred to. When her grandfather is killed in a fishing accident, they are forced to leave their home. Fiona then learns that her Aunt Nan is pregnant by a long-standing married friend. The man's wife dies under unnatural circumstances and Aunt Nan flees to protect the babe. Fiona is left to earn her own keep. She accepts a position as a governess and again meets the Earl of Pendarron. Despite her constant efforts to remain in her lowly station, Lord Tyson continues to show her more attention than is considered appropriate.
Lord Tyson has been raised to behave as an Earl. He is well educated and has travelled. He chooses to remain grounded and not flaunt his elevated upbringing. As a future Earl, Tyson has received several offers of marriage with large dowries attached. He remains a gentleman and is able to avoid any compromising situations. Lord Tyson has met the only girl he ever wanted and refuses to see that class boundaries exist between them. He is there for Fiona every time she suffers misfortune. Although she knows there is a growing attraction between them, Fiona refuses to be his mistress, believing that it will lead her down the same unfortunate path as her mother and aunt.
Joanna Challisdraws together two very determined characters from opposite sides of society. She examines their situations and explains their actions giving the reader a very clear perspective. At this point a mystery is hinted at and the suspense builds up. Be prepared for some evil family members to emerge and try to cover up their dark secrets. Fiona is unaware of her constant peril.
The romance and family secrets link to a black opal ring which is believed to be cursed. It was rumoured to have belonged to the ill-fated Marie Antoinette and smuggled out of France during the Revolution. Once owned by the Pendarrons, it has not been seen for many years. Joanna Challis had me on the edge of my chair as the pieces start to fall into place. This book is written in a classic style, which will appeal to historical fans and traditional regency readers who love a plot with many dark surprises. Joanna Challis is an author to keep a watch out for and for this reader The Pendragon Legacyis a definite keeper. Highly recommended reading!
Reviewed by: Naomi
