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May 28, 2014

Scandal At Almack's by Gloria Gay


Scandal At Almack's (A Regency Romance Novella) by Gloria Gay
Boroughs Publishing Group, April 25, 2014
36,000 words ebk. 978-1-941260-15-9 
Regency/Historical Romance
Review copy provided by publisher in exchange for Library Journal Xpress review

Her uncle's timely offer of a London social season leads Jenny Longtree out of a forced marriage but into a scandalous dance--one that will not only save her family from destitution but deliver all of her heart's desires.THE WALTZGenevieve Longtree finally understood why, for years after it was introduced, this particular dance was considered immoral in England and forbidden in most ballrooms: It was dangerous. The moment Lord Corville placed his left hand on the small of her back she felt something ignite in her body. They two might just as well have been dancing naked, for that was how Jenny felt in his arms. What happened next was even more scandalous. It would call into question the wisdom of her mother for allowing her a London season despite her penurious circumstances, the last-minute choice of Almack’s Patronesses, the loyalty of her few friends, and the belief of Jenny herself that Lord Corville was the answer to all her dreams and prayers.- See more at: http://boroughspublishinggroup.com/books/scandal-almacks#sthash.W4pMJMsz.dpuf

Settle in for a charming rags to riches novella generously infused with true tones of the Regency era. Jenny Longtree travels to London for an unexpected treat to a season of balls sponsored by her uncle (in spite of the miserly aunt's misgivings). Upon meeting the dashing Lord Corville at the exclusive Almack's establishment, Jenny's otherwise dim future immediately brightens - if only she can wiggle her way out of another's grasp.

As a novella, the story is forced to cut corners such as possible romance scenes, but this helps the charm of the novella as well. The intriguing characters combined with a witty writing style make up for a somewhat predictable plot, while the historical setting portrayed itself very well. I would have enjoyed these characters in a full length novel with some added romantic nuances, but overall Scandal At Almack's is a novella that could easily be recommended to Regency lovers.