Carolyn Comyn appears on the doorstep on her mother's estranged friend, actress Beth Prior. Once she hears the young lady's story, Beth decides to take Carolyn under her wing. Off they go to Sicily, where things are not as they seem, and danger could be just a day away.

This was a delightful read! I'm not sure who I loved more, fragile, young, and innocent Carolyn, or beautiful, talented and clever Beth. I enjoyed following them through their adventures in Sicily. They are surrounded by an entertaining cast, most of whom are not who they appear to be.

The plot moved at a good place. My only trouble was that it took a while for the story to really pull me in. The setting, Sicily during the Napoleonic war, sets it apart from other novels of the time.

I received a free copy through NetGalley for reviewing purposes. All opinions expressed are my own. ( )

Originally published in 1993 and now available as an ebook, Escapade is solid historical fiction. There are a couple of slow-burn romances, but it doesn't have the shape of a romance novel.

Beth Prior agrees to journey with her long-time paramour to Sicily, where the king and queen of Naples are in exile during the Napoleonic War. She is accompanied by a young friend, an heiress who has fled her unhappy family situation. There they find welcome, a bit of romance, and danger.

Solid characterizations and well-written plot. ( )