The Reluctant Baronet
1811, England. Russell Parkinson, chemist and newly created baronet, despises London, although both he and his good friend hope he can use his knowledge and increased influence to help improve everyday lives. Selina Clifton, scarred by smallpox, lives by the motto, “Play the hand you’ve been dealt.” She must marry to save her family’s run-down estate, and the foppish Mr. Hallett seems her only option. Things change when Selina and Russell meet. They quickly develop an attraction, and Selina hopes he will declare himself. But Hallett’s uncle unexpectedly announces his nephew’s engagement to Selina, dashing not only her hopes, but also those of her two best friends. The romantic tangle appears unresolvable.
This proved a very pleasant Regency romance. Russell and Selina are well-drawn characters, as are all the players in the several romantic entanglements making up the sub-plots of the novel. Russell’s interest in mercury poisoning and the use of mercury in hat-making proved intriguing, and I felt it added more depth and interest to the story. A very lovely read, recommended for lovers of sweet romances.
