Frontier-bred Summer Wine Lee was raised in Tombstone, Arizona learning how to shoot, use a knife, and generally take care of herself. When her father made a fortune in silver mines and railroads, he wanted her to have the advantages he never had and sent her to New York City for culture and society. Summer Wine Lee falls in love with an Astor but she is ridiculed for her lack of style and polish. To win over her beloved's family, Summer Wine goes to London to become a lady and be presented to the Queen. Summer reasons that if she can do this, then the Astors will accept her and she can marry the man she loves. She approaches the impoverished Duke of Monchester, a renowned wit, to strike a bargain.
Duke of Monchester is incredulous when he receives the message that the upstart American Summer Wine Lee wants his help to become a lady and be presented to the Queen. His contempt for wealthy Americans buying titles is well known. But Summer Wine's offer of one third interest in a railroad gives him pause. And when she pulls a knife out of her boot and offers him a twinkly smile, he goes against his better judgment and agrees. The duke's help saves Summer Wine from the worst snubs, but instead of changing Summer Wine, together they change how Society's definition of what's acceptable.
After Summer Wine Lee is accepted in London, the Duke can't bear to have her leave for her old love in New York. He can't help think that if her beloved Monte loved her, he would accept her for who she is. When will she reach the same realization?
My Unfair Lady by Kathryne Kennedy is a fun retelling of My Fair Lady. Both Summer Wine Lee and the Duke of Monchester are engaging and sympathetic characters. If you're looking for a romantic read and a quick escape - this will surely hit the spot!
Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca (December 1, 2009), 384 pages.
Review copy provided by the publisher.
Thanks so much to Danielle and SourceBooks for this review opportunity!
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