Dominic was quickly running out of funds; for once his lucky gaming streak was failing. After a night out on the town he stumbled into a lad at his doorstep. The lad looked lost and beaten so Dominic brought him inside despite his protests. However, it soon became apparent that the lad was a young woman. She was quite badly bruised; she said that she had run away from her brother who had been abusing his power as her guardian. Dominic insisted that the young woman, who called herself “Jack”, stay the night. When he awoke, the girl was gone. He never even learnt her real name.

In an attempt to regain his finances in a foolhardy cross-country horse race, Dominic was almost killed. His father, the Duke of Lear, was irate at such reckless behaviour and sent Dominic to Stovely Hall, in the country, to recuperate and reconsider his rash behaviour. Whilst attending a social gathering, Dominic quickly realises how dull he finds the pace out of London. Just as he is leaving the Ball, he is introduced to Miss Sophie Thornton. Dominic cannot understand why she seems so familiar…

Sophie Thornton is far from a typical regency inspired heroine. She prefers to wear her younger brother’s clothing for comfort and freedom. In her guise as a boy she is able to slip past Dominic’s guard and find her own path to his heart. Of course, Dominic realises that his “pupil” is a female, but together, they are able to enjoy one another’s company without observing the strict protocols of the era. Back in society, the tender friendship will be seen in a different light. This sweet romance is quite addictive. Hazel Statham uses language which is appropriate to the period. As a reader, I initially found it difficult to breeze through, but the tone of the book is quickly established by the use of these old-fashioned terms. The characters are pleasing and unique. Naïve Sophie is the perfect partner for an arrogant young man who seems to have everything. She brings forward his very human, vulnerable aspects. Through misunderstandings the romance becomes complex, leading into a dramatic conclusion. If you have been searching for a warm-hearted regency romance with an authentic accent, you should read Hazel Statham’s Dominic.

Reviewed by: Naomi