AN UNWILLING BRIDE

If you can accept the bizarre premise of this romance--that two illegitimate offspring should marry to continue a blue-blooded line--you'll enjoy this charming novel. Yes, indeed, the Duke of Belcraven has decided that his illegitimate daughter--who has no idea who her father is--should marry his wife's son--who has no idea that he is not legitimate. It just so happens that Beth Armitage is a blue-stocking schoolmistress who finds her intended, Lucien, a troublingly handsome rake, so sparks do fly. Nicely read by Simon Prebble, this romance comes alive through his aplomb and sublime skill. One does wonder how he can read without chuckling through some of the more lusty scenes. B.H.B. (c) AudioFile 2003, Portland, Maine [Published: DEC 03/JAN 04]