Stepson

A missing Will leads an unlikely pair to face their nemesis and find each other…

The new Earl of Tremont is determined to marry the wife of the old Earl as soon as she is out of mourning. She is dependant on his goodwill until the will is located, so it suits Jarrett, The new Lord Tremont not to discover the combination of his deceased Uncle’s safe too soon. Lady Tremont, Rose had escaped marriage to Jarrett nine years ago by marrying the Earl. Her parents were eager for her to marry a title and did not mind the age difference. Rose enjoyed her friendship with the older man so she was relieved to escape marriage the heir whom she strongly disliked.

Mackenzie Lancaster had never met his stepmother. He is a writer for a travel magazine and had just returned from Italy, when he learned of the passing of his stepfather, the old Earl of Tremont. When he turns up on her doorstep he cannot believe that such an elegant young woman is his stepmother. She seems troubled and goes out of her way not to antagonise Jarrett even though she clearly dislikes him. Mackenzie is eager to see the will; he is expecting to inherit a small estate that had belonged to his mother prior to her second marriage, to the Earl. Rose agrees that he may stay with her at the dower house because she is also expecting Jarrett’s sister, Faith for a short visit, therefore it will not stretch the boundaries of propriety too far.

Rose and Faith have been firm friends ever since they met in school. She had met the Earl through Faith. Faith has no illusions about her brother Jarrett; she also despises him.

Rose is only 33, she is very young to be in mourning and has never even been in love. She has always done what is expected of her and is determined not to break any of society’s rules governing behaviour. When Mackenzie kisses her, she is shocked. Most of all she is shocked that she enjoyed it. Of course, it can never happen again.

At 25, Mackenzie is worldlier than his stepmother. He realises that he has pushed Rose too far and must back off. Nevertheless, he is determined to stay and help her avoid confrontations with the manipulating Jarrett.

This is Regency at its best! Two people who should be together cannot because of social differences and the dictum of society. In the background, Jarrett is circling in the way of a shark sensing prey. He is clearly the most eligible and correct husband for Rose, she will be able to continue her present lifestyle in the properties that she adores, if she marries him. Mackenzie can only offer love and adventure, if the Will is not found he does not even have a home. Rose is growing to love Mackenzie but she believes that she is much too old for him and he is with her only out of pity.

The stories of the secondary characters are just as enjoyable as Rose’s own tale. They bring out a new dimension to Rose, as do the pets and servants of the many houses. As readers begin to learn more of why Jarrett is so disliked, the plot takes on a new slant, and it is clear that Rose must avoid marriage to this selfish man. Emma James adds an atmosphere of sexual tension throughout the book for both Rose and Mackenzie, but as a true Regency, it is the love of the couple that shines through, details of their lovemaking are not necessary. I have thoroughly enjoyed Stepson. This reader found it to be a completely different and very unpredictable Regency book. Highly Recommended!

Reviewed by: Naomi