The late Georgette Heyer was a very private woman. Her historical novels have charmed and delighted millions of readers for decades, though she rarely reached out to the public to discuss her works or private life. She was born in Wimbledon in August 1902. She wrote her first novel, The Black Moth, at the age of seventeen to amuse her convalescent brother; it was published in 1921 and became an instant success.

Heyer published 56 books over the next 53 years, until her death from lung cancer in 1974. Heyer's large volume of works included Regency romances, mysteries and historical fiction. Known as the Queen of Regency romance, Heyer was legendary for her research, historical accuracy and her extraordinary plots and characterizations. Her last book, My Lord John, was published posthumously in 1975. She was married to George Ronald Rougier, a barrister, and they had one son, Richard.

"For a truly exceptional read, Regency or otherwise, that makes you giddy with glee you need to pick up These Old Shades by Georgette Heyer. " -- Love Romance Passion

"Heyer made me laugh, cry, and sigh with warmth. " -- The Book Faery Reviews

"These Old Shades is not only a pleasure to read as a romance, but also for the heartwarming manner in which its young heroine attracts friends, and the way they all rally to her cause." -- BookLoons.com

"It's nice to find a book that you want to frantically flip through to find out what is going to happen next, yet want to read slowly so you can savor every word at the same time." -- Virginie Barbeau

"Mistaken identity, intrigue, and romance are only a few of the plot lines that make These Old Shades a fascinating read. " -- Laura's Reviews

"If the story that unfolds is outrageous and unbelievable, the characters develop beautifully, the dialog bubbles delightfully, and we love the rollicking ride." -- Jane Austen's World

"The dialogue sparkles." -- Starting Fresh

"I was captivated by the story line from the beginning, delighted in the plot twists, enchanted by the budding romance, and teased by the chapter headings into reading far into the night. " -- Rundpinne

"There will never be another Regency writer this perfect." -- Book Pleasures

Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca

Pub date: 2009-10-01

Length: 384 pages