Isadora Delafield, heiress to one of the greatest fortunes in America, finds herself the object of affection of a British duke. Given that he's an uncouth cad and suspected of murdering his three previous wives, Izzie decamps to safety in the country, where she becomes an unlikely candidate for housekeeping position. Ian McKenzie is knows hiring Izzie is a terrible decision, given her complete incompetence, but he can't help but be charmed by her unconventional manner. Granted, he's also desperate, and she makes him an offer he can't financially refuse. While Izzie is pretty sure she's dodged the trouble following her, the country turns out to have its own share of mysterious and dangerous doings . . .Jen Turano consistently lives up to my expectations. If ever I want a romantic comedy to brighten my day, her books are always at the top of my list.
Though it may seem far-fetched to have an heiress who's never done a day's work in her life manage a household, this is largely negated by the utter chaos--and unusualness--of the household she is theoretically running. Izzie might be incompetent at basic household tasks like washing clothes and boiling water, but they're desperate, she's there, and she's willing to learn, which is theoretically better than no help at all. Jen Turano is the master of quirky characters and quirkier pets (not one, but TWO this time!).
The setting was very different from Turano's other books, mainly due to taking place on a farm (not even an estate). I enjoyed the relaxed country atmosphere and all the ensuing hijinks one can expect for a city girl out of her natural environment. The labor disputes were a surprise, given how serious an issue they were historically versus how the humorous I expect Jen Turano's books to be. However, she manages the issue with sympathy and aplomb while never losing the sense of fun.
Delightful as always.
American Heiresses
1. Flights of Fancy
2. Diamond in the Rough
3. Trouble in Store
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