By Joan Smith
Jane Lonsdale had been dismissed from her position at Miss Prism’s Academy because the music master had tried to kiss her. Jane went to her aunt, having no idea that the housekeeper had married Lord Pargeter, who promptly died. Neighbors at nearby Swann Hall were suspicious about the will, and Lord Fenwick, a visitor, decided to investigate. Though Jane’s past hinted of scandal, Fenwick was intrigued
Severity reflects intensity, not value — “central theme” means a warning is a core part of the book, not that the book is bad.