An Unsuitable Heiress by Jane Dunn

 

Synopsis:

Following the death of her mother, Corinna Ormesby has lived a quiet life in the countryside with her cantankerous Cousin Agnes. Her father's identity has been a tantalising mystery, but now at nineteen Corinna knows that finding him may be her only way to avoid marriage to the odious Mr Beech.

Deciding to head to London, Corinna dons a male disguise. Travelling alone as a young woman risks scandal and danger, but when, masquerading as a youth, she is befriended by three dashing blades, handsome and capable Alick Wolfe, dandy Ferdinand Shilton and the incorrigible Lord Purfoy, Corinna now has access to the male-only world of Regency England. And when she meets Alick's turbulent brother Darius, a betrayal of trust leads to deadly combat which only one of the brothers may survive.

From gambling in gentleman’s clubs to meeting the courtesans of Covent Garden, Corinna’s country naivety soon falls away. But when she finds her father at last, learns the truth about her parentage and discovers her fortunes transformed, she must quickly decide how to reveal her true identity, while hoping that one young man in particular can see her for the beauty and Lady she really is.

Review:

An Unsuitable Heiress follows the journey of Corinna Ormesby from the countryside to the town looking for her only living parent.

Cory is a strong, clever, and capable woman. She did everything to find her father, also putting herself in danger, fortunately she met Al, Rav and Ferdy at the right time who helped her without many questions.

The main characters are very likeable, I've really enjoyed the friendship among the heroine and her three "protectors". Their bond is almost that of a family, Cory feels so close to them and I've appreciated how they accept her since the beginning without any drama.

This was the first time I've read Jane Dunn's work, her storytelling was a pleasant surprise. The pace is good, even if the end felt a little abrupt, the descriptions are vivid and catching.

I love Regency stories and this novel with all the exact historical details brought me back to my favourite era.

Release Date: 05.22.2023