Powder and Patch
Originally published as The Transformation of Philip Jettan, this early work by the admired Georgette Heyer contains the language and idiom of the Georgian era, and depicts Fielding-esque characters.
Philip Jettan, son of a Sussex squire, is indifferent to society and fashion. Other than farming, his ambition is to marry Cleone Charteris, his lovely neighbor, recently returned from London. She, however, finds her country beau lacking in refinement: an opinion shared by Philip’s own father. When a gentlemanly rival appears on the scene, Philip’s jealousy is roused. His defeat in a sword fight, and Cleone’s rejection of his marriage proposal, force a self-examination – and a self-imposed exile to France.
In Paris, Philip learns his lessons well, and becomes the rage. In London he repeats his social triumphs before Cleone’s astonished eyes. Her heart belongs to him, but his intentions have apparently altered as drastically as his appearance. As one expects from Heyer, the conclusion of this sprightly, amusing tale is highly satisfying and of course, romantic.
