A gentle and enjoyable story set in Regency England
This book takes place briefly in Lochaber, Scotland, May 1819 and for the majority in London 1819. UNDRESSED is the third book in the Ashton/Rosemore series.
Brenna Maclachlan of Castle Glenbroch is visited by some mysterious strangers who inform her that she is actually their long lost child, one of a set of twins who was stolen from her parents as a baby. Stunned by this news, Brenna is persuaded to go to England to meet her brother, her twin, and to stay with the parents she never knew she had. Not well received due to being Scottish and very strong willed with interest such as astronomy which are considered inappropriate, she finds herself drawn to another outcast in society, Colin Rosemoor. Colin Rosemoor’s reputation has been ruined and his place in society destroyed when he is accused cheating at cards. His intended bride’s family swiftly dismisses their engagement and state they want nothing to do with him. Knowing he was set up, he is determined to clear his name. When it is rumored that Brenna’s brother, Hugh Ballard, might have had something to do with setting him, Colin is determined to use Brenna to help clear his name. In turn Brenna demands that the land Colin owns in Scotland not be cleared.
This tale of two people who for separate reasons are not accepted into society, find each other and form a deep bond. Brenna, whose world is not how she grew up to perceive it and Colin’s whose world has been turned upside down fall madly in love. Brenna, however, unbeknownst to her, is engaged by her parents to a man she abhors. Lord Thomas also happens to be the master mind behind Collin’s soiled reputation. In cahoots with Brenna’s brother, it is clear that the entire situation was carefully orchestrated.
Characters in the two previous books, UNLACED and UNVEILED make many appearances to give readers a sense of familiarity. UNDRESSED does stand alone however the reader might appreciate the story more if the first two are read first. This book does not hold many surprises, though the story is enjoyable and well-written. Brenna, who is raised a strong-willed Scot, comes across as mild and easily led by her English family. Society as a whole is depicted a mean-spirited and quick to judge, leading one to think why anyone cared to be a part of it.
This reviewer hopes that the very capable Kristina Cook will take new risks and challenges in future stories to give readers the spark they are looking for. UNDRESSED is a light and enjoyable read, however, and a wonderful way to enjoy a session reading.
