The Courtesan's Wager

Starred Review In her younger days, Lady Sophia Dalby was London’s foremost courtesan. Now a countess, and still one of the most beautiful women in England, Sophia has become a successful matchmaker due to her brilliant maneuvering. But this particular attempt at playing Cupid sets tongues wagging throughout the ton. Sophia is finding a husband for Lady Amelia Caversham, and only dukes will be considered. Furthermore, Sophia is setting up interviews for the prospective spouses, and as soon as the first candidates are rejected, others line up to take their places. Everyone who’s anyone is interested. Everyone, that is, except the Earl of Cranleigh. This proud nobleman not only spurns Sophia and Amelia’s interviews but he is also determined to keep his brother from applying. Dain concocts another wonderfully witty story, complete with unforgettable characters, sparkling dialogue, a clever plot, and amusing situations. Libraries will want to have this entire delightful Regency series (The Courtesan’s Daughter, 2007; The Courtesan’s Secret, 2008. --Shelley Mosley

Claudia Dain is a two-time RITA Award finalist.