The Scandalous Lady Wright by Marion Chesney

Title: The Scandalous Lady Wright

Author: Marion Chesney

Series: Three Friends, #1 (unofficially named)

Genre: Regency Romance (traditional)

Publisher: Fawcett Crest

ISBN: 0449217620

Format: Mass Market Paperback, 184 pages

List Price: Out-of-Print

Characters: Lady Emma Wright, Comte Saint-Juste

Reviewed: December 3, 2008

Synopsis: Lady Emma Wright is trapped in an abusive marriage to a well-respected member of Parliament. When he is mysteriously murdered, she stands accused until the handsome dilettante, Comte Saint-Juste decides to clear her name. Falling in love with him scares her silly due to the barbarous nature of her late husband.

My opinion: This one, due to the nature of Emma's previous marriage, is not nearly as funny as many of Ms Chesney's other stories. The comte, however, adds a lighter element with his insouciant charm and his best friend, Jolly, is a bit of comic relief. The main focus is on Emma, so we do not get a very good look into the comte's mind. She is a little flighty at times but I suppose that is understandable due to the abuse she's suffered.

Overall: 3.9 stars because I am a Chesney fan and this is probably my favorite series by her because of the element of seriousness that is not often present in her older regencies.