Her father was a tyrant and her mother was totally controlled by the man. Isabelle knew she had to stand up to him when her father determined she would marry an insipid curator they met on a train. He absolutely disgusted Isabelle and he continued to rebuff him and refuse to “walk out with” him.

The only consolation Isabelle had was her weekly walks along the lands around their town. It was while on one of these walks that she met Sir Harry Manderlin. I found it barely believable that anyone could be as naive as she was. The timeframe and her parental restraints helped me see that it could be possible for a woman to be so immature. How she became pregnant and the secretive way that she insisted they await his return from a trip overseas caused a myriad of trouble for the couple.

Ms. Anita Birt has written a beautiful book about true love and how circumstances can change even the best intentions. She delivered some beautiful scenery while telling this story. It made me wish to visit the area of Wales in 1900. Her characters, from the domineering father to the subservient mother, were compelling studies in personalities. She wrote the two potential love interests with an objective of showing their vast differences. She has woven together several lesser cast members who also brought excellence to her writing.

I recommend this book for anyone who enjoys a book with ups and downs and even a very surprise ending. You will be glad to have read it.

Overall rating:
Sensuality rating: Very sensual

Reviewer: Brenda Talley
January 29, 2008