An irony of hilarious misdirection and misconception all designed to reveal the truth.
When they first meet, Miss Tavistock is nine years old and newly orphaned, and her cousin, Gabriel Rempeare is of age to enter the navy. According to their parents’ wishes, they are betrothed. Ten years later, in 1811, they meet again, but mistaken identities and false assumptions interfere with the original plan.
What follows is a continuing series of misunderstandings on the part of Miss Tavistock. She is determined to see Gabriel for who she thinks he is, from what she’s heard, even though she knows that “the papers often get things wrong.” loc 2023
Like a runaway horse, the plot picks up speed, hurtling along a road potholed with deception. Author Linore Rose Burkard only just keeps the wheels on the carriage until the very end of the ride, even though Miss Tavistock’s subterfuge causes them to loosen dangerously.
As the characters continue to work at cross-purposes, everything finally breaks loose. I did not expect what happened at the end. Masterfully done!
The Jane-esque language in this novel is exquisite:
“Roderick was low in the pocket, and everyone knew the duke was swimming in lard.” loc 382
“…bursting with fripperies and falderols, laces, parasols, perfumes, stockings, china, books, fabrics, furniture, and jewellery…” loc 1109
“Stafford was in dun territory himself and hadn’t a feather to fly with.” loc 1979
“The captain was a last resort, being too high in the instep for Roderick’s liking.” loc 1980
Miss Tavistock’s Mistake is a delightful read, a light treatment of the theme that truth will out in the end, if only we give it a chance. Highly recommended for Jane fans and those who love light historical romance.
For more on author Linore Rose Burkard check out her new website.