A perfect day for Lady Elizabeth (Libby to her friends) Sinclair would be crawling under the bushes to find strange new bugs and looking at them under her much loved microscope. She is a wallflower at dances and English social graces still leave her bewildered, but gets thrilled with what she discovers in gardens.

Now, her older brother protective Bram, Lord Sinclair, is bound and determined to get her married off to his good friend Lord Sheridan and as soon as possible. Libby definitely is not interested in him as he is forever nattering on about archaeology which only gets her upset about the impact his “digs” have on the surrounding nature. She has tried every excuse, but how can she escape this marriage?

Inspired by the number of Elizabeths in her life, award-winning author Roseanna M. White has beautifully written THE NATURE OF A LADY about Lady Elizabeth Sinclair who would rather be a botanist than a bride.   With subtle suggestions from her lady’s maid, Mabena Moon, Libby convinces her mother to let her have a vacation in the remote Isles of Scilly, off the coast of Cornwall in southwest England for the summer of 1906 before she decides to marry.

Libby is absolutely swept off her feet with the exuberant beauty of the Isles and you too will be swept away to these lovingly described Isles as White instantly pulls you there with her lush descriptions of the brilliant colours, vivid flora and fauna and the smell of the salt in the air.  White’s many talents as a writer definitely shines with her intriguing and complex plot. Libby is confronted with many small mysteries. Why are there personal items in the rental cottage?  Why the strange deliveries? Why is Mabena so different? Why the threats?

THE NATURE OF THE LADY is one of the most beautiful and delightful romances that I have read in a long time. Just following’s Libby’s unfolding from the tightly bound bud of an English rose to her full-blown self, her joy of learning and confidence would satisfy; yet, how White describes Libby’s   growing love for Oliver Tremayne, a clergyman and slighted impoverished gentleman with his keen interest in biology and botany keeps the reader on edge. Will they get together or not?

In addition to all the wonderful cast of characters and the budding romance, White also seamlessly juxtaposes many ideas and situations about love, grief, resiliency, religion,  cultural myths and faith that are compelling and thought-provoking for the reader.   White is truly a wonderful storyteller!

Best of all, THE NATURE OF THE LADY IS the first book in White’s latest series, entitled THE SECRET OF THE ISLES.  I am so looking forward to find out what happens to the other Elizabeth, Mabena Moon, and Lady Emily as well as all the other colourful characters, such as Oliver’s beloved Maam-Wynn (grandmother).

THE NATURE OF THE LADY is such an engaging and memorable book that readers will have trouble putting it down especially as it moves on its exciting journey to its conclusion.  THE NATURE OF THE LADY also would be a great discussion book for a book club and White has thoughtfully included some questions at the end of the novel!   I am so looking forward to more from this terrific author!  Enjoy!

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