Tuesday, June 04, 2013

The Foundling (1948)

The Foundling. Georgette Heyer. 1948/2009. Sourcebooks. 439 pages.

I remember struggling through The Foundling when I first read it in 2010, but this time I enjoyed it much more. The romance isn't strong in this one. It is a 'coming of age' story in a way. Gilly (our hero) is in his twenties but so inexperienced in the real world that he's got a lot to learn before he becomes a "real man." This book is about his adventure into manhood, how he learned how capable he really is in interacting with the world. How he doesn't have to rely on his servants and staff for every single little thing.

Gilly's adventure starts when he decides to "help" his cousin, Matthew, deal with blackmailers. He will go in his cousin's place and handle the situation himself. It worked surprisingly well, but, it wasn't without consequences! For in his journey he picks up TWO unpredictable charges. A young man who is running away from his tutor, and, a young woman who is without any sense whatsoever. He also makes a very determined enemy.

If you're looking for romance and only for romance, The Foundling may prove quite disappointing. This is about his journey: the places he goes, the places he stays, the people he meets, the dangers he meets, the dangers he overcomes. Readers meet several interesting characters: some good guys, some not-so-good guys.

There are better Heyer novels that I would recommend first, but this one is enjoyable enough.

© 2013 Becky Laney of Becky's Book Reviews

1 comment:

JaneGS said...

Sounds like a very different type of Heyer Regency novel. I've had it on my shelf for awhile, but haven't been in the mood for a typical Heyer romance so I should probably give it a whirl.

I like the premise, as you laid it out, and Heyer is always so much fun to read.