Penelope Goes to Portsmouth

Book excerpt: A matchmaker contends with a troublesome couple—and a footman in danger in this novel by “a romance writer who deftly blends humor and adventure” (Booklist). Kind-hearted Miss Hannah Pym, the traveling matchmaker, is off to Portsmouth in the company of the beautiful but practical Miss Penelope Wilkins. Miss Pym quickly realizes that Penelope needs someone to enliven her sheltered life—someone, perhaps, like their handsome traveling companion, Lord Augustus Railton. Unfortunately, Penelope thinks Lord Augustus is a ne’er-do-well. Hannah may find her latest romantic arrangement a challenge—especially when their coach happens upon a footman who faces hanging for a crime he didn’t commit . . . Originally published under the name Marion Chesney, this is a delightful adventure in Regency England from the New York Times–bestselling author of the Hamish Macbeth and Agatha Raisin series. “The best of the Regency writers.” —Kirkus Reviews