This may be the Heyer book with the most amusing scenes--and yet, it also has some of the most serious subplots of any of her Regencies (smuggling, and familial relationships gone awry). The conversations between the hero and his various sniping and sarcastic relatives are comic gems that I have read over and over. As in many of my favorite Heyer's, the romantic element is subordinate to the bigger picture, but it is satisfying nonetheless (and has its own delightful comic moments!).

This must be one of Heyer's best. "The Unknown Ajax" is entertaining, humorous, and moving. The character of Hugo is one of her best drawn heros. Although he puts on the act of a dolt, his intelligence comes through to the reader. He slowly gains the respect he derserves, but through ways that surprise us and carries the story forward. Through his easy-going ways he proves to his snobbish family that he is more a "Darracott of Darracott Place" than they are. This is a book you will want to read again and again.

Leslie Rosen Davis

Author of Dangerous Affairs