Charles Locke was about to fulfill his fathers dream -- to begin a tea trading company based on the wealth the elder Locke had acquired during a life of service as a steward. A pirate attack smashes that dream to bits.
Sarah Carlyle wants nothing more than to be rid of her familys ill-gotten wealth. On the journey home from dispersing some of her money to various missions, her ship comes across an attacked vessel. As she cares for the injured men, a friendship forms between herself and one heartbroken over his loss - Charles Locke. But her ideals clash with his ambition, and Sarah knows she could never marry a man whose goals in life were to earn money and build a trade empire for his descendants.
Upon returning to England without money, tea, or the woman he loves, Charles finds his father still determined to begin a company, this time with the help of a sponsor. Charles mingles among the rich to find someone willing to help, and his path crosses with Sarahs as he learns of her wealth and status as Lady Delacroix. With such radically different lives and goals, its impossible for them to be together, right?
Written in the style of Jane Austen, Palmers new Regency series is off to a promising start with The Affectionate Adversary. Manners and etiquette mask deep emotions and strong characterization. The rambling story may frustrate a few plot-driven readers despite its numerous twists, but Austen fans will enjoy the style and tongue-in-cheek allusions. The theme ties the novel together with thought-provoking quandaries. Recommended for women. Katie Hart, Christian Book Previews.com
