Suzanne Enoch

The books of Suzanne Enoch, who is an otherwise only slightly above-average historical romance novelist, have been elevated to Wordcandy status for two reasons. First, she can write a non-annoying child character. This is very, very rare. Second, she appears to understand that, in the words of Jane Austen, "handsome young men must have something to live on, as well as the plain". It's refreshing to encounter a romance novel hero who is neither fabulously wealthy nor likely to become so by the tenth chapter. ("Thank God! I've found pirates' treasure in the hidden staircase of my half-ruined castle! Now I can marry for love! Hey, where's that hot governess that has been looking after my orphaned nephew??") Ms. Enoch's characters acknowledge that Regency period marriages were frequently seen as a business transaction on both sides, and her heroes are just as likely (if not more so) to be desperate for the financial relief that a wealthy spouse would bring as her heroines.

Aftertaste:
None.

Availability:
Look in used bookstores first, major chains second.

Other Recommendations:
Anything by Karen Hawkins

Anything by Julia Quinn

Anything by Lisa Kleypas

Anything by Patricia (Meg) Cabot

Anything by Georgette Heyer


Website:
http://www.suzanneenoch.com/ -