This 1963 Regency novel deals with a delightful deception that is only possible because the Honourable Christopher or Kit Fancot is the identical twin of his slightly older brother Evelyn, the new Earl. Their mother is a widow, devoted to her sons but recklessly extravagant. The novel revolves around the situation in which Evelyn has disappeared, leaving little indication of where he may be for several days. Kit has travelled back from Vienna where he has been engaged in the diplomatic service. His actions stem from the need to rescue his impecunious mother and not to let down a young woman who it seems Evelyn has become engaged to, and whose family is gathered to meet him. As with many of Heyer’s romantic novels, there are some farcical events, some witty exchanges, and most of all some wonderful characters. Kit has to be resourceful and quick thinking to cope with the challenges of impersonating his brother, to deal with his mother, and to cope with his own feelings which soon emerge. A classic tale of humour and subterfuge, this is essentially a light hearted story of London life and a large country house, with a party of people among whom there is some confusion and personality clashes. A super read which as always reveals research into a period of history and a genre of which Heyer was the proponent. The novel begins with Kit arriving back at the family home unexpectedly late at night. He has had a feeling that Evelyn is in trouble, but the more troubled is their mother who has borrowed heavily to support her lifestyle of reckless purchases and some gambling debts. Evelyn cannot help her much as his father left an uncle as trustee of the estate until he can provide proof of responsibility or contract a suitable marriage, and he has become involved with a young woman, Cressida Stavely, who wishes to marry to escape her new step mother. In order that she may not be embarrassed, Kit agrees to meet her family, including her fearsome grandmother, the Dowager. After some close shaves, a party of Kit, his mother, one of her long term admirers and her brother and his family all turn up at the family country house, where it becomes vital that Kit maintains the pretence, in the face of all challenges. The humour and strength of this book lies not in the plot, but in the dialogue and characterisation of those who are confused by the deception at the heart of the novel. Lady Denville, the boys mother is a marvelous character, whose self deception works well with her affection for the young men. Her brother, a notable miser, contributes to the story, as well as her admirer whose devotion to her is only exceeded by his appetite for good food. The revelation of the novel is the true characters of Kit and Cressida, especially when dealing with some lively challenges. This is an extremely enjoyable book with some memorable characters and proceeds from a wonderful idea of identical twins and their devoted servants. I recommend it as a wonderful read of its type, a humorous look at a family crisis, and some memorable characters.

Georgette Heyer is a master at Regency romance. I am trying this author second time around and she does not disappoint. Her description of Regency England with her characters and sayings just spark off the page. It’s a very easy book to read and you will not be disappointed in getting to know these wonderful characters from the witty Lady Danville to her twin sons Kit and Evelyn (so not alike in character) include Cressy a very modern heroine and you have a very wonderful comedy of errors. I received a free copy of this book from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.