THE MERRY WIDOW
Koko Brown
Red Sage
ISBN: 978-1-60310-290-2  •  1-60310-290-6  •  HTML
ISBN: 978-1-60310-291-9  •  1-60310-291-4  •  Adobe PDF
ISBN: 978-1-60310-292-6  •  1-60310-292-2  •  MobiPocket
ISBN: 978-1-60310-293-3  •  1-60310-293-0  •  MS Reader
February 2009
Ultimate Historical Romance

In THE MERRY WIDOW, Koko Brown writes a short, hot, historical story that is sure to titillate most readers. Mrs. Phillipa Jones is a widow running her late husband's shipping company in late 20th century England.  It has not always been the easiest thing to do, but she has managed admirably since his death.  She has competition from a lot of quarters, but Lord Bellomont has been hounding the company's doors trying to discuss business with her for weeks. She has politely rebuffed his business advances, but he has been doggedly persistent.

On a personal level, Phillipa has been lonely.  Risking her reputation, but not knowing where else to turn, she procures the services of a male companion.  The relationship is not necessarily sexual, she just wants some companionship.  In a case of mistaken identity, Reggie, Lord Bellomont finds himself being escorted into Phillipa's parlor.  These two find the sparks ignite immediately, but there are so many obstacles to overcome.  Phillipa is looking for a paramour, not a husband and definitely not a hired lover. Add to that, Reggie is so young, it looks like she is robbing the cradle.  Reggie, for his part, is a rake through and through. With this case of mistaken identity and a relationship based on subterfuge,  he does not know how to make it right.  These two lovers have their work cut out for them.

I enjoyed reading Phillipa and Reggie's story. Like most Red Sage books, this is a short story and over quite quickly.  It is well written, the characters well fleshed out for 50 pages, and an interesting story, but like any book written in this limited space, some development is sacrificed.  If you like the short stories, then this book is perfect to pick up.  Personally, I like them longer and think Ms. Koko could expand this story into a full length book with no difficulty.  Take pleasure in this book for what it is, for it was enjoyable.

Reviewed by Sarah Silversmith
Rating 4