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Summary: A very special Christmas tale
Review: With the shocking deaths of their parents, Meg Gillingham worries about the future for herself and her siblings. Even though it is Christmas, London society does not seem to care what happens to the orphans. The only offer of help comes from Sir Arthur Jakes, who is willing to see that the younger Gillinghams are taken care of in exchange for Meg's fifteen-year old sister Laura becoming his mistress. Desperate for a Yuletide miracle, Meg reluctantly turns to the Irish wishing stones to attain her desires at a cost that could prove greater than Arthur's price. Still, she goes ahead and wishes for a secure future for her siblings. The Earl of Saxonhurst is irate because he never breaks a vow and he swore five years ago that he would be married by his twenty-fifth birthday, which is tomorrow. Sax learns of Meg's plight and chooses to wed her. However, neither one expected love or betrayal to enter their domestic picture. If this unlikely duo is to share a lifetime of happiness, they must uncover the identity of their enemy, who Meg thinks might be the magical stone she used to ensnare Sax. Jo Beverley has scribed a beautiful Regency romance that proves the sub-genre is alive and well in the hands of this awesome author. The enchanting story line, especially the magical aspects, moves rather quickly to the reader's delight. The lead characters are warm and user friendly, while the support cast add an authentic feel as Ms. Beverley imbues them with a bit of wit and whimsy. FORBIDDEN MAGIC is a wickedly tempting piece that will bring many new readers to Ms. Beverley and the Regency sub-genre. Harriet Klausner
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