The Other Daughter by Lauren Willig

[One Clever Minx]

Willig's latest stand alone novel "The Other Daughter"' is a poignant tale brimming with wit and charm. Like most of Willig's previous works, this is a historical novel taking place in the glamorous jazz age just after The First World War.
Our heroine Rachel,who has been working in Paris as a governess races home to England after receiving an urgent telegram regarding her mother's sudden illness. Unfortunately for Rachel, she arrives home too late to say good-bye. To make matters worse she has missed the funeral, finds out she is being evicted from her childhood home and discovers that her father, whom she had thought had died 21 years ago, is alive and well living a grand life as an Earl of the realm in London with a new family.
With the help of Simon Montford,an aristocrat who was a former student of her cousin, Rachel sets out on a mission to uncover the lies and secrets of her past. Rachel successfully integrates herself in the circle of "bright young things" and in the process is introduced to her half sister Olivia. As the story unfolds, Rachel discovers not only the truth of her past but the key to her future.
This novel is full of exciting twists and turns that will keep you on the edge of your seat. It also offers an intimate look at how this golden age was forever changed by the affects of the war. The secondary characters are well developed and their back stories not only support but enhance the heart of the story. Readers will love to route for Rachel who is both intelligent and endearing. The witty banter between Simon and Rachel helps to build an irresistible chemistry between the two and as they break down each others barriers and hidden truths the more deeply connected they become.
Beneath all the glitter and glam Willig delivers a gripping tale that will tug on your heart strings and keep you guessing until the sweet end.

[open_water]

I actually hate history, except world history, but this book actually sounds very interesting! And I feel like if someone is a really good writer, they could use history as an interesting backdrop against which to place the story.