Regency readers were first introduced to Xanthe–an irrepressible fairy godmother and friend to young hearts–in THE CANDLELIGHT WISH. Now she’s back to play matchmaker for another unlikely couple. All she needs to commence her spells is the ripple of water in a mirrored bowl and a clever white cat named Titus…
When Xanthe glimpses careworn Major Aubrey Kelland’s wish upon a glittering Christmas Star — for a staid, capable wife to manage his dilapidated ancestral home and unruly young sisters — she vows to assist him in finding such an estimable female. To this end, Lady Xanthe Simms hosts a house party with an array of eligible ladies.
Although Aubrey’s bewitched by Miss Desdemona Lynton, his military precision is offended by her scapegrace conduct and carefree mirth. Such a flighty chit could never set his household to rights! And Desdemona, though dazzled by this virile officer, despairs of sparking his long-lost joie de vivre. Only by turning the impetuous miss into a damsel in distress can Xanthe and Titus reconcile Aubrey’s heroic nature with his disorderly desires — and a love that’s written in the stars.
