TEST
Most of us just get drenched from falling into a fountain. We don’t end up traveling to another time – and we definitely don’t do it twice.
Flynn Patrick is reluctantly returning to England to attend a wedding at Merestun. During the reception he stumbles headlong into a fountain and emerges from the very same fountain in 1815, just in time to meet Melisande St. Clair who is escaping from her own betrothal party. The couple decides to set out to London together, but, once there, Mel’s Aunt Felicity is quick to notice Flynn’s resemblance to the Duke of Merestun and to his son who mysteriously disappeared when 5 years old. So, is Flynn really the lost heir and did Mel’s change of husbands still make her a future duchess?
The Impostor is a nice read with a likable hero and heroine. Mel is more than a little snobbish and doesn’t always anticipate the consequence of her actions. At the same time she is able to adapt when faced with impossible odds. What some may see as stupidity could easily be interpreted as inexperience. Flynn, with his 20th Century experiences, is a more suitable partner than she could ever expect. He is making the best of a bizarre situation, while trying to remain his own affable self. Yet, Flynn has an advantage over many other time-travelers, and while his direct manners don’t suit the time, he has a talent for ad-libbing and for cutting to the core.
It is more than likely that the reader who possesses a firm historical knowledge of the period will react to a number of wobbly details. I caught a few – the most amusing one was that no one reacted to Flynn’s repeated statement that his mother has a university education. However, while these problems with the setting needed mentioning, they did not influence my over-all reaction to The Impostor.
A very nice touch was the proof of a long and happy life for Flynn and Mel. This twist was woven into the story and the significance of the information was revealed at the end. This spared the reader a blissfully sweet epilogue, while serving the same purpose.
I enjoyed The Impostor while it lasted. Above all I was charmed by Flynn’s interaction with the Duke of Merestun. If you are looking for a lighter historical touch and charming banter, you’re in for a few pleasant hours.
Grade: B-
Book Type: Time Travel Romance
Sensuality: Warm
Review Date: 10/08/99
Publication Date: 1999
Recent Comments …
Yep
This sounds delightful! I’m grabbing it, thanks
excellent book: interesting, funny dialogs, deep understanding of each character, interesting secondary characters, and also sexy.
I don’t think anyone expects you to post UK prices – it’s just a shame that such a great sale…
I’m sorry about that. We don’t have any way to post British prices as an American based site.
I have several of her books on my TBR and after reading this am moving them up the pile.