John Fitzhugh Wyckerly is delightfully handsome, gifted at the gambling table, a faithful friend and more. He certainly doesn’t deserve the title of The Wicked Wyckerly that has just been handed down to him as well as his title of seventh Earl of Danecroft. Inheriting a stack of bills and impatient creditors as well, Fitz has evaded the bill collectors and headed out to take possession of a stud horse that he has won in a card game, hoping the horse’s value will help increase his own purse. He also plans to collect his recalcitrant daughter, Penelope, from the home where she has been left behind by Fitz’s former lover.
The Earl certainly doesn’t count on meeting Miss Abigail Merriweather, a petite yet strong woman managing her late father’s farm and taking care of her four young siblings. Abigail’s siblings have been taken away to a foster home due to a glitch in her father’s will, and Abigail will stop at nothing to get the children back. She immediately realizes that Penelope is a little girl that needs lots of patience and love, and Abigail also realizes that Jack Wyckerly is a handsome and charming man who may be more trouble than he is worth!
Fitz and Abigail soon come to an understanding of how they can help each other with their immediate and longer term problems. Abigail has come into a mysterious inheritance and must go into London to claim it. She hopes to meet a suitor that will not be too objectionable so that she can marry and meet the terms required to get her siblings back. Fitz must find a way to make enough money to satisfy his creditors, and to help restore his family’s homes to livable conditions. Their paths continue to cross, and Fitz soon finds himself rating Abigail’s suitors and deciding that no one will do for the lovely woman who has captured his heart. No one but Fitz himself, that is!
Author Patricia Rice masterfully weaves several subplots throughout The Wicked Wyckerly, leading readers to wonder what happens to several other characters, especially the men that are Fitz’s steadfast friends and allies. Thankfully, The Wicked Wyckerly is the first of The Rebellious Sons series, so readers will get to see more of this group of interesting characters. From the irascible butler to the elegant Lady Belden, Patricia Rice creates a supporting cast that enhances this lively story. Sweet, sexy and heartwarming, The Wicked Wyckerly will leave you smiling and ready for the next installment from Patricia Rice.
