The Perfect Rake by Anne Gracie 2005
"The Perfect Rake" is the first book in a series with the Merridew sisters. It is the story of Prudence Merridew, the oldest - and plainest - sister, and Gideon, Lord Carradice, a renowned rake. Fleeing from the country estate of their horribly abusive grandfather, Prudence convinces their great-Uncle to treat the girls to a Season, in the hope that one will marry and free them all forever from their grandfather's hands. However, seeing Prudence to be almost unmarriagably plain - at least in comparison to her lovely sisters - her great-uncle insists that Prudence be engaged before any of the others are allowed to come out. Unbeknownst to their uncle, however, Prudence has been involved in a secret betrothal for four and a half years, and is only waiting for him to return from India. She cannot disclose this, however, so she invents a betrothal with a hermit duke who usually spends his time in the wilds of Scotland - only to find that he has indeed come to town. Going to confront the duke before he is suprised by her great-uncle, Prudence mistakes his cousin, Gideon, for him...
This is a charming book! Witty and yet tender at the same time, plot devices that would usually bother me are made fresh and interesting. The characters are warm and alive, and the reader finds herself truly caring what happens to them. Prudence's honor and loyalty, set against Gideon's past of dishonor and licentiousness is a fascinating paradox. Despite the differences in their character, though, they are a wonderful pair - a real complement to each other. They fall in love with each other slowly enough that it is realistic, and the misunderstandings and conversations they have at the beginning were enough to make me laugh out loud. Truly charming!
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