Something Dangerous (like No Angel) introduces a sharply observed element of social commentary into its epic-saga format, along with a vivid panoply of international history from the frantic 20s to the two World Wars. Adele and Venetia Lytton are twins enjoying all the social prestige and wealth that their position as daughters of the founder of a highly successful publishing empire can give them. At the age of 18, they make up for a lack of formal education with a confidence and cheek that isn't too far from arrogance. As the 30s begin, the twins put the horrors of the 1914 conflict behind them--but their adulthood coincides with the sinister rise of Nazi Germany. Soon, their privileged position comes to seem hollow indeed: Venetia finds that being trapped in a grim marriage is only the beginning of her misery, while Adele struggles to bring up two young children in a Paris that is being engulfed by the war. Then there is Bart Miller, taken from the slums by the twins' mother and more able to cope with life than Adele or Venetia. And crucial to the narrative is Laurence Elliott, scion of the family's New York members, single-mindedly pursuing an almost obsessive love. The interaction of Vincenzi's fascinatingly rendered cast is choreographed with her usual aplomb, and the epic backdrop never dwarfs the agonies and ecstasies of her characters.--Barry Forshaw

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Celia Lytton broke the rules when she demanded a job in her husband Oliver's young and eager publishing company. This was the belle epoque of Edwardian England, when women were expected to look lovely and bear children but nothing more. With the help of her stern sister-in-law LM, Celia proved she could do that and more, becoming invaluable in the success of Lyttons. Now the company is safe and flourishing, and a new generation of Lyttons is growing up to inherit it. But the future they are also going to inherit looks dark. As the delightful glamour of the twenties passes away, fearful shadows of war begin to gather and threaten the happiness and very lives of the family. Strong-willed and stubborn, Celia Lytton has survived much in her time - now she must guide her family through the brooding danger of the thirties and the terror and spirit of wartime until peace is finally declared.

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