Rapture Becomes Her
Born and bred on a Virginia plantation, Barnaby Joslyn migrates to England and is installed as the new viscount on his family’s Sussex estate, where he is opposed by his envious cousin, Matthew. One night Barnaby finds himself washed ashore after a yacht voyage, suffering from a head wound. Suspecting foul play but unable to remember recent events, Barnaby is housed at a nearby inn, where Emily Townsend ministers to his injuries. Emily, a headstrong young woman, is embroiled in a secret ring of smugglers at odds with another ring, the Nolles Gang. As she and Barnaby fall in love, and Barnaby is attacked again, they suspect his cousin wishes him dead. Barnaby and Emily are drawn closer together through a series of dangerous exploits involving underground passages and mistaken identities.
Shirley Busbee captivates the reader with the historical detail of the Regency period while providing sensual passion and heat between Barnaby and Emily. Although at times the dialogue seems a bit too current, that flaw is balanced by the strong and consistent characterization throughout the novel. The characters convey humor, passion, and zest as they continue solving the mystery of Barnaby’s assailant. This novel is a fast and fun summer read.
