Her cousin Stephen was just the right man for her, Bryony's mother insisted. A fine figure of a man—who pledged his undying love. But Bryony often thought of her absent cousin Lucas. He'd not been handsome: in fact, he'd been much too fat. Still, she thought, what fun they'd had! Bryony's brow crinkled—where was Lucas now? She sighed a deep sigh, and prepared herself to marry.
Her fiance was tall, dark and handsome. A pity! When she wanted someone witty, kind and gentle.
–Cover Blurb, The Wicked Cousin
Byrony de Beaufre adores her cousin, Sir Lucas Bardine. Growing up on neighboring properties, they spent hours playing in their “castle,” an abandoned hermitage they discovered as children. Even now that Byrony is an adult and an Incomparable, she still regards Lucas as her closest friend–nevermind that he is grossly obese, chronically short of breath, and a figure of fun in society. He remains her kind, dear Lucas, whose generosity is unparalleled. He even rescued their charming, charismatic cousin Stephen from the slums and launched him in society. Then, Lucas vanishes without a trace. . .
The Wicked Cousin by Zabrina Faire is a delightful historical romance novel set in Regency England. The story revolves around Lady Bryony de Beaufre and Lord Lucas Bardine, who have both been fond of each other ever since their childhood. The story goes on and the two have some kind of misunderstanding that very day Lucas vanishes, and it is caused by the villain, Stephen who betrayed him, and soon becomes Bryony's fiance.
This novel could be read in one sitting and I would say it is an engaging read, as the story was well-written. I like the characters as well, as their personalities truly were stable. Lucas is a kind-natured noble lord who has had to endure hardships. While I also like Bryony who is a spirited woman who stands up for herself.
Although the story is well-constructed, the series of events outweighs the romance a bit. As I felt it was a bit lacking by the end, the novel could have used more romantic scenes between Bryony and Lucas. Nevertheless, I would say that it has been a delightful read!