Lerner's debut regency, In For a Penny was a surprising, delightful read. Between the careful development of the relationship between Penelope and Nev and the burgeoning social issues of the time, Lerner crafted a well thought out, entertaining and enchanting novel.

The premise itself isn't anything new or revolutionary--penniless titled gentleman seeks out rich heiress to fill the family coffers and fix all the money problems he has. What surprised me most was that instead of having either one or the both of them fall instantly in love with the other, Lerner detailed the various stages that veritable strangers go through to learn about one and other. Several times throughout the novel either Penelope or Nev would think to themselves that there was still so much to learn about the other.

Certainly their personalities were a good fit--they were both at opposite ends of the spectrum in most ways. Where Nev was careless and debauched, Penelope was careful and calculating. Where Nev could only see one extreme or the other (restraint vs. free reign), Penelope could only think in moderation. The two of them, more than anything else, taught the other how to compromise their ideas. Penelope didn't always have to be the perfect lady and Nev didn't always have to be the perfect embodiment of virtues either.

Lerner also sets up the scene for the background plot of the social confusion and evolving idea of class and class treatment as well. Through Nev we see the ton, through Penelope we see 'new money' and through the tenants of Lowestowe we see the worker class. Since the French Revolution all 3 classes have undergone changes--some swift and some gradual--as the world moved towards a new era of society and class reform. Because of the position Nev finds himself in--trying to restore the profitability of Lowestowe--we can clearly see how disastrous mismanagement can lead to absolutely terrible conditions for all.

Admittedly some of the plot threads and inclusions weren't as neatly tied up. I'm still confused about Tom Kedge and what exactly was going on there, and Amy's reappearance was abrupt and given scant thought unless the plot needed that obstacle.. I would have also liked more development between Louisa and her beau.

On a whole I believe In For a Penny was a sparkling, delightful and engrossing debut.

Re-Released Review. Originally reviewed on 3/10/2010 as a Dorchester title. This book is being re-released by Samhain Publishing on 6/3/2014. ( )

Just as lovely the 2nd time around.

Beautifully done regency. Well researched and set firmly and correctly in the time period. The writing was flowing, immediate and interesting. The plotting was pretty tight. Most of the book was the hero, Nev, and the heroine, Penelope, learning to adapt to their marriage and working together to try to put right his neglected ancestral estate. Some of the problems current in England at the time were part of the plot, things relating to corn laws and enclosures and class struggle etc.

Nev was one of the best heroes I've read in a very long time. He was only 23 and had been used to partying around London unheeding of where his money came from when his father dies. He immediately straightened up and began trying to find his way out of the very deep debt his father left them in. He is incredibly sweet. He tries very hard while knowing that he is vastly unprepared to deal with finances and whatnot and knows that he is not really bright when it comes to finances. He marries a rich merchant's daughter for her money but he had already met her and had been taken with her. He treats Penelope like a princess though. He stands up for her and protects her and quickly comes to care for her. He is also very honorable and kindhearted but he does have a backbone of steel and can use his innate power as an Earl unconsciously when he needs to.

Penelope is 19 but is a pretty grownup and composed 19. Her parents love her and don't want her to marry for a title but she insists (I would too, if Nev were offering) and so they let her. She understands Nev's personality and knows that while she is good with numbers, he is good with people. She is sweet and caring.

They both try hard to make their marriage work while being a bit unsure of each other. This is not one of those books that revolve around the tension of 'will they or won't they go to bed'. The love scenes are lovely and sweet while still being hot.

I can't recommend this highly enough. ( )

Oh yay, I’ve found a new romance author to love! ( )

3.5 stars ( )

A great traditional regency with a light wit that reminded me of Georgette Heyer. ( )