Jo Beverley is one author who can create a mood deeply rooted with historical value. In Hazard, Beverley stuck with tradition but decided the rhythm of speech would be the noble approach, the results: They talk too much. Finally, Lady Anne Peckworth has her story. Sequel readers know Anne is the jilted candidate from Beverley’s Forbidden and The Dragon's Bride. Although jilted twice, surprisingly Lady Anne is hardly heartbroken, for marriage was never her life’s goal. Born with a twisted foot, Anne has spent most of her existence being pitied. Nevertheless, Anne is content with her life. She enjoys blissful hours researching her familial ancestry.
Race de Vere is a polished nobody, a commoner, a tradesman’s son. Still, Race de Vere is concerned. As friend and secretary to the Earl of Wyvern, he has taken it upon himself to make certain that Anne Peckworth is all right after Wyvern discarded her. Mischievously, he becomes a fast friend to Anne's younger brother to gain Anne’s acquaintance.
Sparks of attraction fly between Race and Anne. Race awakens in Anne the pleasures of lust. It is with this realization that Anne discovers a need to find a husband – a man worthy of a duke’s daughter. Of course, Racecombe de Vere isn't in the running. His social position is far below Anne’s. Both realize he is not worthy. Regrettably, Anne sets off for London to shop in the season’s marriage mart, repeatedly dreaming of Racecombe and his wicked advances.
As a writer, Jo Beverley always remains firmly rooted in the traditional Regency form. Jo Beverley is one author who does not rely on fashionable trends to write her historical novels. However, in Hazard Beverley decided endless rounds of conversation would carry the story. After finishing Hazard, the phrase “Too much of a good thing” comes to mind. Woefully, Hazard is talkatively boring something similar to a long-winded person.
- Rating: C minus
- Sensuality: Warm
