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COME WHAT MAY
Leslie LaFoy
Bantam, Sep 2002, $6.50, 464 pp.
ISBN: 055358314X
In 1774 Williamsburg, Virginia, attorney Edmund Cantrell handles a special deal between local businessman Devon Rivard and absentee English aristocrat George Seaton-Smythe. Apparently, Edmund's brother borrowed a large sum of money from Seaton-Smythe's American agents to pay off a gambling debt last year in Philadelphia. Since Wyndom failed to remit the cash, the London-based George offers his older brother Devon a chance to either pay the IOU or marry his niece Claire Curran, the bearer of such news.

Unless he chooses to sell the family home Rosewood, Edmund does not have the money so he angrily selects marriage. Claire who was unaware of her uncle's latest perfidy until the attorney told her she has no other option either. Edmund's plan is to wed, send the proof, and annul the marriage. However, he never considered falling in love with his spouse who he now wants to remain at his side forever if he can persuade her that he regrets his initial mistrust and harsh treatment of his beloved.

COME WHAT MAY is an exhilarating historical romance that stars two strong lead characters and support players who provide the depth to a land on the brink of war. The story line is tremendous when Seaton-Smythe stays in the shadows as a brilliant Machiavellian playing with the lives of people. When he turns into flesh and blood, the plot loses some of its edge, as he seems more of a caricature than a sly manipulator. Still, Leslie LaFoy provides readers with a beautiful romance, a wonderful cast, and a fine story that the audience will appreciate.

Harriet Klausner


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