It's been years since I've read one of Georgette Heyer's Regency romances, but when I read Cotillion, I remembered why she was considered the Queen of the Regencies. Cotillion is a fun, romantic novel, filled with wit, humor and style.

Regency romances are traditionally set between 1811 and 1820. They emphasize manners and style, as well as the difference between classes. Cotillion is a perfect example of this type of novel.

Kitty Charing is the 19-year-old ward and adopted daughter of Matthew Penicuik, a penny-pinching wealthy man who determines to leave his money to Kitty, with the understanding she's to marry one of his great-nephews. To bring that about, he calls his nephews to his estate, but allows Kitty to pick the man she will marry. One nephew, the dashing Jack, fails to show up, but fools his cousin, Freddy, into making an appearance. Freddy, who has no interest in marriage, acknowledges Kitty's longing to see London and enjoy society, agrees to a sham betrothal, and sweeps her off to his mother's, to everyone's surprise.

Freddy, the Honourable Frederick Standen, is a gentleman and member of the fashionable society. As Jack tries to work his way back into Kitty's good graces, Freddy quietly observes. Freddy is kind-hearted, and agrees to Kitty's plans, only to find her schemes falling short of their intentions. Although he never considered himself the brightest member of the family, he has enough common sense to help her out of her scrapes. None of Kitty's good intentions go exactly right, and Freddy always seems to be there to pick up the pieces.

Georgette Heyer cleverly mixes the classes in an entertaining plot. Kitty herself only has any place in society because she's an heiress. If she doesn't inherit, she could find herself working as a governess or companion. She's in contrast with Olivia, a beautiful young woman, who must marry or become a mistress. There's also Miss Plymstock, determined to marry another of Kitty's cousins. Marriage is shown as the only way for women to achieve status, unless they have it by birth or inheritance.

Many of Georgette Heyer's novels have not been available for years, but Sourcebooks, Inc. has started to republish them, beginning with Cotillion, and An Infamous Army: A Novel of Love, War, Wellington and Waterloo. It's time someone brought these outstanding books back for a new audience. Cotillion, with its excellent cast of characters, enjoyable storyline, and subtle romance, is a perfect place to start.