Double Deception (Signet Regency Romance) [Paperback]

Usually a hero who deliberately sets out to destroy the heroine's happiness is an arrogant, conceited jerk. Oliver's hero isn't the typical Regency rake concerned only with his egocentric indulgences but is a thoughtful-- if misguided -- man who also wants only what's best for everyone involved in a messy situation.

I found that despite a set-up that would have had me suspecting a silly heroine and an obnoxious hero, Oliver exceeded expectations and created two likable, caring people who deserve happiness... if only they can figure out a way to grab it. The author did an excellent job fleshing out characters with strengths and weaknesses that compliment each other so well that when the couple finally achieves the happiness they deserve you can only finish reading the book with a smile.

This book is not part of her 'Seven Corinthians' series, which was initally disappointing since I like those characters, but as a stand-alone book it is immensely readable. Oliver introduces another determined, strong and intelligent woman as a heroine, and a hero who has to be tough but underneath is a caring, shy and ethical man. St Aubyn's son is also painted very sympathetically as the young man who initally falls in love with Serena; even when his feelings are revealed as infatuation, he remains a likeable character who still has time and patience for Serena's young daughter.

Two minor characters are also interesting: the Earl and Countess of Ridgeway, friends of St Aubyn's who appear near the end of the book. Enough is said about their romance to suggest that Oliver might have already written, or be intending to write, their story, and I shall look out for that book eagerly.

Oliver uses one of the classic plot-lines in this book, that of indigent widow latching onto a young and naive man, who persuades himself that he's in love and wants to marry her. The twist, however, is that in this version of the plot the lady is no villain or harpy, as would usually be the case. Athena knows that she's not being entirely fair by Peregrine and feels guilty, but Peregine insists that he does love her, and he's very kind indeed to her daughter.

Peregrine's father, the Earl of St Aubyn, is (not surprisingly) none too happy about the engagement, and sets himself the task of separating the couple. However, he finds himself attracted to Athena, much against his will.

Again, Oliver doesn't resort to stereotypes: St Aubyn is by no means the heartless father. In fact, he is a sincere, caring and very moral man who hates what he has to do to detach Athena from his son, but does it because he loves his son. He does actually recognise Athena's merits, and the portrayal of his own dilemma makes this story all the more interesting.

In addition, Peregrine is also drawn very sympathetically. Even when - as could be expected - he falls in love with someone else, he doesn't forget his obligations, and he still keeps undertakings he's made to Athena's daughter.

All in all, a very enjoyable book, with a great cast of characters, including some minor ones who sound as if they deserve their own story!