In the category of Regency Romance, Ms. James moved away from the typical focus of the ton and instead wrote a period story about people embroiled in entailments. Lady Rose Tremont, a widow, endured the unwanted advances and proposal by her late husband's nephew, Lord Jarret Caldwell, to whom her husband's estate was entailed. Rose's future hung in the balance of Jarret's goodwill of which depended on her answer to his proposal. She did everything within her power to put him off hoping that her husband's lost will would surface providing for her, but the end of her mourning period was approaching, the will wasn't found, and Jarret wouldn't be put off any longer. As if blown in by a storm of fortune, Mackenzie Lancaster, Rose's late husband's stepson from his previous marriage, disrupted Rose's carefully constructed life, and he began to tear down the barrier around her heart.

Mackenzie arrived at his stepfather's widow's home upon hearing of the old man's death in hopes of securing his mother's small estate, but he discovered more than he bargained. When he learned that his stepfather's will was missing, Mackenzie vowed to remain until it was found and in the process, he discovered that Rose was a beautiful woman and an excellent companion that he couldn't get out of his system. His desire to obtain his mother's estate became less of a priority as Rose's well being took precedence. Like a knight in shining armor, Mackenzie came to Rose's rescue.

Mackenzie and Rose found themselves in a tangled mess created by Jarret in order to put them off of finding the will. Jarret did everything he could to secure Rose as his wife, even keeping the will from her in an effort to force her to accept his proposal. But what Jarret didn't consider was that Rose's and Mackenzie's common purpose would bring them together as they navigated his deceit.

Emma James developed a fun story that is a quick and satisfying read. I enjoyed getting to know Rose and Mackenzie, although I longed for deeper character development because they were such neat characters. Ms. James created a plot that had depth and provided tension. I would have enjoyed more of both in this fun story. THE STEPSON is a satisfying story that will fill a craving for a quick, light read.

Reviewed by Maci Walker
© 2004