Escapade [Mass Market Paperback]

Like all her other books, Micheals gave "Escapade" a strong, diverse, cutesy cast. There was the main protagonists, "Miss C." and Simon Rocksbury, Viscount Brockton. Sidekicks come in the package of Lester Plum, an overweight, peaches and cream to-die-for adorable bestfriend who shares a penchant with Imogene for chocolate tarts, and is always caught in scrapes not of his making. One scheme had poor Lester dressed up in a pink frock (not his best color, were told), masquerading as C's aunt Leslie! Theres also the Simon's mother Imogene, the outrageously tall, bulky Viscountess, and don't you dare add "dowager" to her title thank you very much mama! She is forever starving herself and laced up in corsets for the sole reason of finding a husband beofre Simon marries as to not be delegated to the dower house. Her real reason is so far from that! Of course Simon has to have his friends, in this case they are Bartholomew Boothe aka "Bones" an all together too thin, short, nervous man who hobbies includes expounding on the virtues of eating, last there is Armand Gaultier an American breed "ex-privateer" who is too handsome and smooth by half, with a nice fabricated history to share, and the fathers, brother, and the nasty villain.

This is a laguh a mile, revenge gone wrong story with both the hero and heroine out for revenge for 2 distinct reason, Callie's is revealed and you'll have to read to know Simon's. Definitley pick it up if you are looking for laughs, this book will keep you guessing in all the wrong directions.

I thought the main characters were likable and entertaining. First, the book could actually be edited down 50 pages. There was too much inane dialogue (which I think was put there) to illustrate the wit or teasing banter of their conversations. Secondly, the heroine Callie was a trifle annoying with her stubborness and foolish antics. I could not relate to her, she was too young and immature. Finally, I can't help but feel that there could have been more.... description of the feelings they were experiencing, or twists to the plot. The plot was your typical formula, but all in all it worked for me. Overall a good book.

There are strong supporting characters. They offer us comic relief and add to the story. I thought the hero Simon, Viscount Roxbury was wonderful as the hero. But I hope that Ms. Michaels will not ignore Armand Gauthier (Simon's close friend). Armand would make a fantastic hero for an upcoming novel. I could have read more about him! He has sex appeal, character, charm and intelligence--all wonderful traits for an upcoming lead character.

I gave it 4 stars, because of those minor complaints. Good book.

Warner Books - July 1999

How Sweet is revenge? Ms Caldonia Johnson, Simon Roxbury; Viscount Brocton and at least a half dozen other zany, inept, bumbling, funny funny characters are sure to find out. Ms Johnson wants to shoot the bad man in the knee so he will be sure and suffer whenever the weather is damp. Her first attempt goes astray when she mistakes the Viscount for her prey. From that moment on this hilarious book just gets better and funnier.

The Viscount's Mamma is a story on her own. She wants her son to marry, but not before she can find a strong virile, (with emphasis on the virile), man for her bed. Nobody is going to call her dowager.

Anyway Ms Michaels as per usual puts it all together in her wonderful style that will have you rolling on the floor with laughter, and unable to put the book down because you can't wait to see what kind of mischief come next.

Definitely a five star keeper.

Ron Hosmer

Dre@lewiston.com