Macnamara, Ashlyn

Henrietta and Alexander's story is a lukewarm introduction to the "Eton Boys Trilogy," with only the merest thread hinting at a connection to future installments. Some readers may be interested to discover how the childhood friendships grew to be so tense, but this reviewer hopes that Macnamara (A Most Scandalous Proposal) is able to carve out a bit more excitement in the process.

Gossip, scandal, and breezy banter enliven this unusual dual love story that features some beautifully rendered secondary characters, illuminates realistic dilemmas, and highlights the overwhelming importance of one's social standing (a classic theme in traditional Regency romances). Macnamara's debut novel was a finalist for a Romance Writers of America Golden Heart Award for unpublished manuscript. Macnamara lives near Montreal.