The Rivenhall family is in disarray. The father, Lord Ombersley, is so saddled with gambling debts that his oldest son, Charles, has taken control of the family finances. The oldest daughter, Cecilia, has abandoned the marriage match her parents made for her to pine after a hapless and distracted poet. And Charles' own impending marriage has been placed on hold due to a death in his fiancee's family - to the short-term relief of the rest of the Rivenhall household, who can't stand his joyless bride-to-be. When cousin Sophy arrives to visit while her diplomat father is overseas, the family expects a meek and quiet girl who can provide some respite from all the drama. Sophie has been raised in much different circles, however, and she brings with her a taste for fast horses, a loaded pistol and ideas that will shake up the Rivenhalls in ways that they never could have predicted.
Starting in the 1930s, Georgette Heyer revived the style of Jane Austen and launched a trend of Regency romance that continues to this day. Several of her classic tales have been republished in print and ebook, including The Grand Sophy (1950) - a delightful story full of wit and driven by an energetic and deeply unconventional heroine who can steal the heart of the most cynical reader. Less of a "bodice-ripper" than some more recent Regencies, Heyer's work stays true to its Austenite origins, while still displaying a modern sensibility. - Michelle (Sunset)
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