Victorian England presented a stratified, well-defined class system; the Mallory’s are considered gentry, with certain privileges and expectations. Joanna Mallory has managed to escape the dull monotony of her rank, and presumed unable to function in polite society, due to her “affliction. “
Joanna Mallory . . . spinster, simple-minded, and child of the fenland . . . a façade the young lady has fostered throughout the years. This impression has served her well, allowing a certain independence and freedom to traverse the countryside at will.
Her kind, but meek, older brother sees little harm in this activity. But her ill-tempered, unpleasant, sister-in- law finds this behavior unacceptable and wants to place restrictions upon the girl. Perhaps even a well-guarded “retreat” for the child-like relative, something the unconventional Miss Mallory is determined to avoid at all costs.
Throughout the years, Joanna has formed an association with a scholarly and enlightened antiquarian . . . a friend of her great aunt, the “Lizzy’s”. This relationship has nurtured an appreciation for the history of Lincolnshire, and a desire to preserve the past.
The young woman also has a knack for “finding” relics of antiquity, and uses this talent to uncover items long hidden. These discoveries prove to be satisfying as well as lucrative.
In the course of her travels, she encounters Ethan, a young archeologist, who is excavating the ruins of a nearby Roman fort. The man delights in the unusual, surprising, and occasionally nonsensical lady.
Add a vicious malefactor that stalks her as prey to the mix of unconventional characters, contributing to a clever tale of discovery, danger, and of course, romance.