Seasoned author Richardson (Lord Harry's Daughter) once again portrays a chaste but realistic relationship between intelligent, equally matched protagonists in this breezy Regency-era read. Gareth de Vere, the Marquess of Harwood, is dubbed The Bachelor Marquess due to his aversion to the wedded state. Lady Althea Beauchamp, called the "incomparable of incomparables" and The Ice Princess, is equally reluctant to marry even though her beauty and her father's vast fortune have made her the catch of the season. Prior to their first meeting, Althea and Gareth form negative opinions of each other based upon the tales of the gossipmongers, but they quickly overcome their antipathy for one another when they discover a mutual passion—games of chance. Gareth further warms toward her when he realizes that her encroaching mother is much like his own marriage-minded mother. The primary difference between them is that Althea is dependent upon her parents—until Gareth gives her the opportunity to win back her cousin's estate and her independence. Richardson weaves a genteel tale that is more talk than action but appealing all the same. Although her prose is occasionally marred by an abrupt shift in point of view, this temperate romance will charm readers with its atmospheric setting and full-bodied characters. (Mar.)
