Reading Mood: Classic Coze with Humor & a Dash of Gothic-ky Goodness
Synopsis: Claire de Lancie is in desperate need of a husband when she meets Edward Tremayne, the Earl of Ketrick. Their marriage of convenience is followed by a surprisingly idyllic few weeks at the Earl's country estate. But the Earl soon seems driven to push his young wife away. In London they go their separate ways, until Claire's carriage is waylaid.
First, the secondary characters for this novel are groovy! I have a thing about secondary characters, knowing that is what I would have been in life back in the day. Without apology, I confess I have a soft spot for the housekeeper, scullery maid, valet and poor relation that are treated with the characterization respect they deserve. In this book, it is the brother Jody, fifteen, and the mistress, Lady Pamela that *makes* this book for me. Well, yes, I enjoyed Claire and Edward too.
This is a Classic Regency; the marital intimacy is tastefully implied not described. There is a pleasant omniscient narrator in places that I enjoyed, points of view from many characters handled with a deft hand that never leaves you confused or flipping back and forth. The situations are plausible; the historical details accurate, reactions consistent with the era and the characters believable. You will not find a twentieth century woman or a new-age sensitive guy in costume in The Earl’s Wife. Huzzah!
Be advised Back in the Day Reviews may contain spoilers. Read at your own risk.
