Taking Liberties » (Readers Guide inside)

Diana Norman is a former journalist who has written critically acclaimed biographies and historical novels.

From the author also known as Ariana Franklin-the thrilling sequel to A Catch of Consequence that "moves at a cracking pace."( London Times)

Makepeace Hedley is frantic when she learns that her young daughter, sailing home to England from the rebelling American colonies, has been taken prisoner by the British. With her usual determination, Makepeace sets out for Plymouth to rescue her child.

And when Countess Diana Stacpoole is asked by an American friend to help his son, also a British prisoner, Diana responds quickly and leaves her genteel past behind.

In the chaos of wartime Plymouth the two women face social outrage, public scandal, and even arrest. Amidst docks and prisons, government bureaucracy and brothels, they forge an unlikely and unshakable friendship. And in freeing others, they discover their own splendid liberty.

Nola Theiss - KLIATT

A continuation of the story begun in A Catch of Consequence, this features two women of similar temperaments but drastically different backgrounds who come together to fight for a common cause. During the American Revolution, when Makepeace Hedley learns that her daughter has been taken prisoner by the British, she steps into action to save her. Soon she finds there are others to save, and in that cause joins forces with Countess Diana Stacpole. Their allegiances are tested; they must fight governments and the military, and are called traitors, but both women know what they must do. Lovers of historical fiction will enjoy the authentic writing style and language and the record of the treatment of military prisoners. KLIATT Codes: SA—Recommended for senior high school students, advanced students, and adults. 2003, Penguin, Berkley, 448p., Ages 15 to adult.