Miss Alita Stanton is a refreshing presence in the world of historical romance. Unique, believable, interesting, and entertaining Alita is happy to beat to her own drum. Blessed or perhaps curses with the ability to "see" Alita does her best to keep her gift from society. Not even her close friends knows until Alita accidentally slips up upon receiving some shocking news. Unfortunately it gets worse for Alita, at her presentation ball she once again has a vision and all of London now knows her secret. Cast out in shame her Grandmother comes up with the solution of travel abroad to give time for things to be forgotten.
Enter Lord Captain Ravensdale, the Black Panther from Alita's vision. Tormented by having killed a friend on the battlefield the Captain has shut off his heart. Seeing an English woman who appears to need help the Captain rushes to her aid only to be bewildered by her presentation. Unsure how to handle Alita the Captain flounders around a good deal which is highly entertaining. Mesmerized by Alita but terrified of her demeanor Lord Ravensdale works at keeping his distance with little luck.
Even the side characters played a nice role in the story. Alita's grandmother came off as secure about who she is but also a bit too traditional. The barkeeper the Captain confides in also has a distinct personality and offered insight into how the local Egyptians think. Despite only having a small part Alita's distant family makes a strong impression, I fell in love with them immediately and wanted more of their story.
Mrs. Hollingsworth has an elegant writing style with a talent for providing ample amounts of detail without it being overbearing. A clear picture of the setting is painted perfectly each and every time. I never once wondered which character was talking, presenting themselves, or where the characters were. The story line progressed smoothly with plenty of humorous moments added in along with some bits of action. Overall a perfect blend of romance, clairvoyance, humor, history, and action. It is always a delight and pleasure to read Mrs. Hollingsworth work.
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