An Unacceptable Demise

Life can change in a heartbeat How did the robust Viscount Dunley succumb to illness so quickly? …and what of the new Viscountess…why do men fall under her spell so easily…? Priscilla Coulter senses that things are not as they seem, but she is so distracted by her patient, the arrogant Captain Daragh Blackstone, that she has already missed some vital pieces of the puzzle…

It was almost inevitable that Captain Daragh Blackstone’s headstrong ways would lead to his downfall. While impulsively disobeying a direct order, Blackstone had single-handedly saved the lives of many of Wellington’s men, but was left seriously wounded. His arm is useless; his army days are over. Trooper Jeremy Hoskin chooses to help Daragh travel home, and stay on as valet. “Buck Blackstone” was once known to be a rogue and a rake. His dark Irish good looks had drawn the ladies easily. Daragh’s temper and rashness also came from his mother’s Irish side. He returned to England a beaten man, emancipated and exhausted. Fortunately he is secretly engaged to the lovely Helen Jamieson, so his future may not all be bleak.

A dramatic change has taken place during his service in Spain. His hale and hardy father has passed away quite suddenly. Daragh’s detested older brother, Robert, is the new Viscount Dunley. Lady Dunley, his mother, is residing in her London townhouse, the shock of her dear Henry’s death and years of excess have left her breathless and bedridden. The long journey has taken a toll on Daragh; he is swooning as he finally climbs the stairs to see his mother. A harpy, Daragh presumes to be his mother’s nurse, refuses to let him pass and has taken over his room. Then she notices his bandaging and attempts to order Daragh about. As Hoskin steers him to a bed, Daragh passes out on the floor.

Priscilla Coulter, Cilla, has worked patiently for weeks to return Lady Dunley to health. Cilla is the daughter of a physician and is a lady. She nurses because it is a passion and has been capably assisting her father for some time. Her patient, Lady Dunley is prone to sulking and tantrums, which leave her breathless. When Daragh arrives it is obvious to Cilla that he is very like his mother. He stubbornly refuses her treatment and arrogantly tries to put her in her place. Cilla is well aware of Daragh’s wild reputation but she can see past his charms. The man is devastatingly handsome, also ill mannered, unpleasant and overbearing.

The Dunleys arrange for Cilla to stay on as nurse for Daragh when they depart to their country estate. She intends to help the stubborn man regain the use of his arm with her treatments. Daragh plans to use Cilla to help manage his mother. Daragh is not prepared for the shock that greets him at Shawnton Abbey, or for the letter that his father had penned just days before meeting his untimely end.

Patricia Harrison’s latest Regency era book has many dark twists. She very capably draws her readers into a past age, a time when servants knew their place and the rules of society were strictly followed. Her life-like characters, very apt dialogue and dramatic situations will keep her readers coming back for more. Captain Daragh Blackstone is a man of honour; he believes that he must stay true to his word even though it may adversely affect the rest of his life. He likes to hide behind his past reputation; at heart he is fair and generous of spirit. His arrogantly cheeky comments are only are small part of his charm. Daragh is a man who deserves to be loved for who he is, and could be a perfect match for Cilla. Cilla is not looking for love at Shawnton Abbey. She intends leaving behind her obstinate patient and the wars of the Blackstones as soon as she is able. Circumstances may not be what they seem to be. Daragh causes Cilla to feel hot and flustered. She admires his strong broad chest; even his manner is beginning to grow on her. Cilla believes that he needs her assistance to discover the reason for his father’s death. Her maid and Daragh’s valet are becoming close and, provide yet another reason for Cilla to extend her visit.

An unsolved mystery and clandestine characters will keep readers turning the pages. The long-awaited tender love scene is not out of place and endears the characters further; it is an enchanting pause before the fast paced chain of events that follow. Patricia Harrison is a fairly new Historical author with some refreshing ideas. Her two earlier books are firm keepers for this reader and An Unacceptable Demise has also earned a position on my favourites shelf.

Reviewed by: Naomi