‘The Grand Sophy’ by Georgette Heyer, published by Cornerstone
Don’t be put off by the all-round chocolate boxiness of the packaging: inside Heyer’s considerable back catalogue lies incredibly smart writing that is as moreish as, well, chocolates. One of the most popular writers of the early 20th century (at one point, her books sold half a million copies each), Heyer specialised in Regency romances with dashing heroes and nippy plots. Her army of devotees have their own favourites, but we champion The Grand Sophy , a rollicking good read that will be of particular joy to Bridgerton viewers, combining as it does the sense and style of Lady Danforth, the gossip of Lady Whistledown, and the permanent glister of scandal that ties the whole thing together.
When “Cousin Sophy” comes to stay, the troubled Rivenhall family expect a dear meek thing. Instead, they get a capable, independent problem solver who turns them all on their heads, much to the annoyance of the Rivenhall heir and his appalling fiancee. Imagine Mary Poppins minus the snobby attitude, with the addition of a hefty private income and several horses. A joy.