Fancy Pants

When Britisher Lady Sydney Hathwell's father dies, the American who planned to wed her suddenly reneges. Stranded in America and penniless, Sydney contacts a relative in Texas who, mistaking her male-sounding name, invites his "nephew" to join him on his ranch. "Big Tim" Creighton, however, is appalled when this mincing fop arrives at Forsaken. He determines he'll turn Fancy Pants Hathwell into a man before the boss returns home. From the get-go, he has "the kid" mucking stalls, clearing and plowing a field, and assisting with a difficult calving. But when Sydney's true identity is uncovered, Tim resents being deceived. Yet in time, he also finds that he doesn't like all the attention Sydney garners now that she's wearing pretty gowns...Together Sydney and Tim will discover the importance of family and what it means to be a man--and a woman--of God. From book jacket.

This was my first book by Cathy Marie Hake. The cover of the book was really what drew me in. I can't help it, but I do judge books by their covers. Most of the time I'll pick a pretty cover or a plain one unless someone has recommended the book. As is the case in the life of Lady Sydney Hathwell. She assumes the role as a male to get away from an unwelcome romance and is thus judged by her appearance.

This was such a fun piece of historical fiction. I've seen many a movie where the plot revolves around a female masquerading as a male, and they always crack me up. As did this book. I also enjoy books where the characters grow, change, or discover more about themselves, which Lady Hathwell did as well. If you like romantic period pieces, you won't be let down.