A review by saarahnina
An Inconvenient Ward by Audrey Harrison

5.0

Another favourite!

I loved this book, it was perfect and I have acquired a good opinion of the author and also the narrator. I particularly liked the charming yet, realistically flawed characters. With the exception of the villains, that is, for obvious reasons. This audio book managed to have me laugh, scoff and all that in between. The dry humour, the witty sarcasm, and the eccentric, vivacious ward- Elizabeth- were a well crafted recipe for a good story.

This book had me amused for hours. I do admit that initially, I had been put off by the cover. I had misjudged this book to centre on history. And whilst I do appreciate history, I had been looking for an entertaining read. And pleasantly, I quickly found that this audiobook was just that. I don't think I like the cover much, at all. It portrays Elizabeth as a dull creature, when she is anything but.

The story follows a young unmarried man, Michael who has recently acquired the title of Lord. And with the title he also acquires a young ward. He immediately takes a shine to her, but is knowledgeable of his duty. And he endeavours to protect this young woman, under his care, and introduce her to London society so that she may find a husband. There are a number of books that follow this same storyline, but this one takes a more comedic turn. Of course, there is the scandal, and harboured secrets, but there is just as much silliness and jovial dialogue.

And, unlike the other stories, Elizabeth discovers true love- far from the shallow and rigid constitution of London's high society. You see, she begins to realise that she must stay true to who she is- and not venture to depths unknown. The dandies who surround her at the season are not enough to pique her interests, she never even wanted to get married. This is, yet, another reason why I liked her- she's an independent woman, with no cares for scandalous gossip. Her only wish is to secure an estate of her own.

Many readers may have found that the story was slow, but I preferred this- it was more realistic, the two protagonists establish an easy going, platonic friendship built on honesty right from the start. It was the perfect basis for their later romantic relationship.

The ending was fit for the story. And, there were parts which were utterly ridiculous, especially how Michael deliberately decided not to enquire about the nature of his father's madness. You will not believe how this plays such a role on his life! But this aptly accentuates his care for his sister and his wish to protect her.

Speaking of his sister, we are told that she has children, and that Michael has a solid relationship with them. I feel this was added as an afterthought, to contribute to Michael's secret, because we are never introduced to the children nor is Elizabeth, when she is housed under Michael's sister's roof.

Despite this, it really was brilliantly written and performed. Klett's voice enlivened the story, it was professional, patient and I don't believe I grew weary of it at all. An ideal and fitting choice.

I can vouch that you will not regret purchasing this audio book.

I received this audio book through Audio book Blast.