Book Review: "A Foreign Affair" by...

   This April, look for a new Avon A+ book from HarperCollins Publishers. Caro Peacock delivers a time-authentic tale of a young English woman who discovers her beloved father lies dead, somewhere across the Channel in Calais, France. Liberty Lane, or Libby, leaves her spiteful aunt's home with her last few pounds in hand, to put her father to rest and to discover what brought about his tragic death.

   The mysterious letter that brought her the news states he died in a duel, but she knows this can't be true -- her father believed dueling to be a foolish way to solve differences. She arrives in Calais, not knowing who to trust. Who sent her this note? If not in a duel, then how did her father come by the bullet wound in his chest, which she saw before his burial? Who are the strangers that are following her around the city? She narrowly escapes being kidnapped!

   Through the chain of events that ensue, Libby finds herself engaged as a nanny to a wealthy family back home. She believes the head of the household, Sir Herbert, has something to do with the death of her father. She must keep alert as an important ball is coming up, where Sir Herbert has a big announcement planned. What he has in mind could not only reveal a murderer, but could change the course of history forever.

   While crafting a suspenseful and page-turning story, the author also wittily weaves in the historically-based subplot of Princess Charlotte, a royal who died shortly after she bore the stillborn heir to the British throne. And there is the background of Little Vicky coming to the throne at 18, to usher in a new age.

   With Avon A+ books, the "plus" means a special addendum that gives readers a deeper glimpse into the background of the book. The author shares how she came up with some of her ideas, and delves into the historical references she included to bring her tale to life. I found this added bonus material rounded out a book that left me yearning to read more of Liberty's adventures in the future!

Comments: 12

Linda G. Mar 20, 2008, 8:14pm EDT

Thanks for the A plus review

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j - Frugal Mom - r. Mar 20, 2008, 8:58pm EDT

Mary, I am leaving you a 10, but I cannot comment on your review, as I did not read it. I am in the midst of reading the book myself.

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Mary M. Mar 20, 2008, 9:11pm EDT

J, I understand -- I hate spoilers! :)

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Shannon W Mar 21, 2008, 1:44am EDT

Sounds interesting. I may have to add this to my list.

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Anne B. Grote Mar 21, 2008, 9:57am EDT

Thanks, I will.

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Rachel D. Mar 21, 2008, 3:17pm EDT

thanks for the review!

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Jan S. Mar 21, 2008, 4:53pm EDT

I've also read and reviewed this book and found it to be delightful. It is suspenseful and entertaining from beginning to end. I am eager to read more of the series featuring Liberty Lane.

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Caro Peacock Mar 22, 2008, 3:08pm EDT

Thanks a lot, everybody. I've now finished writing the second Liberty Lane adventure, and am starting to follow her on number three.

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Mary M. Mar 22, 2008, 5:47pm EDT

Caro, can't wait to read more about her! She is a fascinating, well developed character. Hope to see more of Amos Legge as well. He was a great addition to this first book.

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