Alexander Montgomery returns to the colonies from travels abroad, only to discover the his hometown of Warbrooke, Maine has been tainted by the increasing British threat — people are losing their property and their livelihood to lies and greed. Eager to do something, Alexander dresses himself as “The Raider” at night, but then, so he won’t get caught and hanged, disguises himself as a far peacock during the day.
Jessica Taggert, who knew Alexander from their youths, makes a fool of him when he arrives, ridiculing the man who had hoped his family and neighbors would see through his ridiculous disguise. Despite this, she gradually becomes friends with Alexande, but it is The Raider she truly desires.
This book was a fun read, bringing in nice historical details that brought the story to life.
The book did stretch by credulity a bit too far, though. When Jessica hugged Alexander, I didn’t understand how she couldn’t have noticed he was stuffed, and not fat. I was also never quite sure what Alexander wanted from her when he grew angry that she liked one or the other of his personas.
But if you’re looking for an exciting historical romance, you may enjoy this.
Rating: 3/5
Title: The Raider
Author: Jude Deveraux
ISBN: 0671743813
Published in 1987