Published by Quercus

Publication date -13 February  2014

Source – own copy

When Evie Nicholson is asked to visit Kettlesheer Castle in Scotland to archive the family heirlooms, she jumps at the chance. Evie’s passion for antiques means that, for her, the castle is a treasure trove of mysteries just waiting to be uncovered. But in each heirloom lies a story, and in the course of her investigations Evie stumbles upon some long-buried family secrets. Add handsome, gloomy heir Robert McAndrew and a traditional candlelit gala to the mix, and Evie’s heart is sent reeling with an enthusiasm that may just extend beyond the Kettlesheer silver…

Evie Nicholson may not be the best antiques dealer in the world. She buys things at auction she feels sorry for and often her boss makes her pay for those items from her salary. She’s offered a way to redeem herself by going to Kettlesheer to value the contents of the country house, and search for a valuable table in the process.

Evie daydreams of bygone times, of big country houses and bigger country dances so she is in her element. Her daydreaming does tend to lead her into mishaps. She is overwhelmed with Kettlesheer and the romance of the place. It did lead her to reveal a rather inappropriate crush on her sister’s boyfriend which seemed at odds with her character.

There are a host of other characters who help flesh out the story, mainly revolving around the huge Kettlesheer Ball being organised at the same time. The fact that Evie can’t dance inevitably leads to her having to take part, bringing her closer to heir apparent Robert McAndrew, and his seemingly annoying girlfriend.

Don’t read this book expecting lots of action. The storyline is perhaps a little predictable but that was part of the enjoyment of it. There are a few gentle laughs along the way, mainly Evie’s doing.

This was a fun read, a good way to escape the real world for an hour or two.