The Ninja Reviews. . .The Season by Sarah MacLean

It is 1815 and Napoleon has escaped from Elba Island and is rallying his troops, but not even the threat of war can dampen the beginning of the Spring Season for the elite English society known as the ton. Most young women look forward to and prepare for their entrance into society for years, but not Ella, Vivi, and Alex.

Eleanor Redburn, daughter of the Earl and Countess of Marlborough, wants only to write novels like the anonymous author of her favorite book, Pride and Prejudice. Vivian Markwell, daughter of the Marquess of Langford, believes that her one true love is waiting for her to find him but realizes that marrying for love is not socially acceptable. Alexandra Stafford, daughter of the Duke and Duchess of Worthington, is angered and confused by the unfair strictures society places on women and wants nothing more than to buck tradition.

These three intelligent and beautiful young women discover that there is more to the life of a debutant than attending balls and soirees when they accidentally discover a spy hiding in their midst. Will they be able to manage their suitors, catch a spy and avoid falling in love?

I have to confess that I LOVE Regency England and I LOVE Regency Romances even more. The glitter of the ballrooms. The one-of-a-kind gowns. The courtly manners. All make for a wonderful escape from the realities of the twenty first century. And since this book combines my two favorite things (Regency England AND Romance) I have to tell you I could NOT put it down. The friendship of Alex, Vivi, and Ella is endearing and vital to the storyline. The desire of the girls to become more than just wives and mothers in a time when that was all that was expected (and allowed) of them presents a dilemma that is not easily resolved. The discovery of a French spy in the heart of the ton creates an enjoyable mystery that will keep you guessing.

Oh, and did I mention there are MANY titled men of the Aristocracy running around in knee britches? I had to save the best part for last! Alex’s three older brothers create a nice comic relief through their teasing and tormenting of the girls. Then there is Gavin Sewell, the brooding Earl of Blackmoor, and all I have to say about him is “YUM”!

The Season is Sarah MacLean’s first YA novel and is a 2010 Texas Long Star book. It is thoroughly enjoyable and a perfect introduction to Regency Romance at its finest!

Waiting on your copy of The Season? Try these:

The Luxe by Anna Godbersen

Sorcery and Cecelia by Patricia C. Wrede

Bewitching Season by Marissa Doyle

Learn more about Regency England here.


Review written by Angela