Historical
The Royal Snuff Box
By Noelle
Jun 15, 2009 - 8:25:15 AM

Lady Julia Reynolds was a paragon of virtue. Possessing a beautiful voice, she attracted the attention of the Prince Regent. Known for his myriad affairs and other scandalous behavior, Lady Julia wanted nothing to do with him. Not one to take no for an answer, the prince begins a dedicated campaign to win the lady’s favor, sending her flowers and numerous other gifts, including a snuff box with her image on it. Unfortunately, a blackmail attempt over the snuff box can create a scandal that might topple an already unsteady government. So, the prince’s keepers send an agent to retrieve the box.

Trevor Whitney, Earl of Brynford, was one of the government’s most trusted agents. Charged by the prince’s advisor to use any and all means to retrieve the box, he immediately goes to Lady Julia. He expects to find a hard, money grubbing jade, but what he discovers is a woman that defies his expectations. As the search for the snuff box continues, an attraction grows between Julia and Trevor. However, as the blackmail attempts continue, will Trevor be able to move past his suspicion of Julia?

As Trevor and Julia search for the snuff box, they are assisted by an entertaining cast of secondary characters, including Julia’s unconventional niece, and Trevor’s mother. As the story moves to its conclusion, will Julia and Trevor be able to live happily together, or will Trevor’s mistrust of Julia ruin their new love?

THE ROYAL SNUFF BOX is a beautifully written story that gives fascinating glimpses into Georgian England. Ms. Hazard has obviously researched her setting, because her background was excellent. The attention to detail added a sense of realism to the story, while still keeping it interesting. The romance between Trevor and Julia was tumultuous, but still very good. All in all, THE ROYAL SNUFF BOX was an excellent read.